Nettle (Latin Urtica dioica) is a perennial herb known as common nettle, stinging nettle, nettle worth, big string nettle, devil's leaf.

It is found throughout the world, most often growing on waste ground, in hedgerows, along roadsides, field edges and grassy places.

Nettles are easily identifiable by their green, heart-shaped leaves covered with tiny stiff hairs that release stinging chemicals when touched (hence the term stinging nettle).

All parts of the nettle plant can be used as herbal remedies - leaves, flowers, stems, roots and seeds.

Unfortunately, stinging nettle is nowadays considered to be a bothersome pest, especially by younger generations who are trying to eradicate it from their gardens and yards.

Members of the older generation hold an altogether different view of the matter by acknowledging its historical importance as a source of food, fiber and medical preparations.

Nettle - historically universal herbal remedy

Stinging nettle has a long medicinal history. First records of its use go back to the first century AD, when it was used to treat colds and malaise.

Due to its great detox properties, it has traditionally been employed as a blood purifier, cleansing the blood and facilitating toxin elimination.

Stinging nettle has been used throughout history as a potent diuretic and laxative as well as an excellent herbal remedy for swellings, irregular menstrual periods, external and internal bleeding, pneumonia, asthma, spleen-related diseases, gangrenous wounds and many other ailments.

In the 17th century, it was recommended as an antidote to venomous stings from animals and was said to be helpful for kidney or bladder stones or gravel, skin infections, joint aches, gout and sciatica.

There is a well-known and widespread traditional Russian practice of flogging oneself with the fresh nettle plant (called urtification), employed to stimulate blood circulation and alleviate rheumatic disorders.

In traditional Russian medicine nettle has also been used to treat gall bladder and liver complaints.

In British and German phytotherapy this plant has been highly valued for its anti-inflammatory effect - it is particularly effective against urinary tract infections, bladder infections and prostate problems.

Due to its high levels of iron, nettle has been used in different cultures as a traditional remedy for anemia, scurvy and lack of energy.

It contains valuable fibers that are very similar in texture to those of hemp or flax and have consequently been ideal for textile production since ancient times.

In many households housewives used to employ nettle to clean mirrors and other glass surfaces or wash dishes by rubbing the plant into dirty surfaces, rinsing with water and wiping dry with a clean cloth.

Nettle - a powerhouse of valuable nutrients

This widespread herbaceous plant provides many valuable nutrients

It is particularly rich in vitamins C,A, K and B2.

It also contains high levels of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, flavonoids,, tannins, chlorophyll, carotenoids, lecithin, phytosterols, acetylcholine as well as panthothenic, formic, acetic and silicic acids.

The nettle root contains high levels of iron, which makes it good for fighting anemia, treating dandruff, preventing hair loss and regenerating hair growth.

Nettle's high magnesium content makes it an excellent remedy for joint and muscle pain, menstrual cramps, malaise, fatigue and exhaustion.

Since nettle is also rich in silica, an essential mineral for maintaining the integrity and health of the skin, modern phytotherapy strongly recommends its use in the treatment of acne, eczema, herpes and fungi.

Due to its high vitamin K content, nettle will guard against excessive bleeding and has therefore been recommended to curb excess menstrual flow, regulate menstruation and stop nosebleeding.

It is an excellent remedy for chronic urinary tract infections, since it contains tannins, compounds that help inhibit bacterial proliferation.

Nettle's lecithin content helps relieve joint and muscle pain, aids digestion, promotes hair growth. It also improves memory and concentration, elevates the mood and aids weather-sensitive individuals.

A wonderful natural remedy for anemia

This simple plant has been used for centuries as a folk medicine for anemia and poor circulation.

Iron is an essential mineral that the human body needs for maintaining healthy blood and for building muscles.

Since the body does not produce iron on its own, one needs to make sure a natural iron source is part of their daily diet.

Therefore nettle's rich iron content has made this herb an invaluable remedy in every household's medicine cabinet.

It is still used today as a wonderful blood builder and circulatory stimulant.

Nettle is also rich in vitamin C, which naturally aids in the iron absorption. By employing this herb, you will avoid the common side effects that occur when taking iron supplements, such as nausea, diarrhea and stomach pain.

Nettle also works as a natural source of energy and vitality.

A wonderful natural detox herb

This somewhat plain-looking herb works as an excellent natural detoxifying agent. It helps stimulate the digestive system, increases the secretion and flow of urine (thereby helping with fluid retention), purifies the blood and stimulates the intestines.

Nettle facilitates the elimination of excess uric acid from the body and releases it from the joints, providing relief from gout and gout-related conditions.

As a diuretic, nettle helps cleanse the body of metabolic wastes and prevents the buildup of toxins, thus effectively fighting off the parasites.

A great natural remedy for pregnant women

Due to its rich mineral value and vitamin K, the use of nettles is encouraged during pregnancy, the most sensitive part of a woman's life.

Pregnant women should use nettle tea rather than freshly squeezed (in a blender) nettle juice, which is to be avoided.

Being rich in iron, nettle is an excellent herb for preventing and treating anemia in pregnant women as well as improving blood circulation.

It stimulates kidney function, relieves tension and stress, helps regulate hormonal activity, calms and soothes inflammation.

Due to its rich magnesium content, nettle relieves painful leg cramps, eases labor pains, helps soothe symptoms of fatigue, exhaustion and debility.

It may also help lessen the swelling of hemorrhoids and prevent postpartum hemorrhage. It promotes milk production in lactating women.

Nettle tea is safe to drink from the second trimester onwards as well as during the whole period of breastfeeding. It regenerates hair growth and promotes smooth, supple and healthy-looking skin.

Other health benefits of stinging nettle

• enhances immune system function
• relieves arthritis and rheumatism symptoms
• relieves menstrual cramping and reduces pre-menstrual bloating
• lowers blood pressure and blood sugar levels
• alleviates headaches and insomnia
• helps relieve respiratory disorders
• minimizes skin problems
• prevents urinary tract infections
• destroys intestinal parasites
• strengthens and nourishes hair
• stimulates milk production

Nettle applications

Regular consumption of stinging nettle preparations may help prevent many health conditions as well as aid in the treatment of severe diseases.

Therefore, you should add at least 1-2 cups of nettle tea or fresh nettle juice to your daily rituals.

For treating more severe conditions, consume 1-2 litres of nettle beverage per day.

You may use nettle to prepare nettle tea, juice, honey, liquer, syrup and tincture or to flavour your favourite meals.

In the following sections we provide a few basic applications of this precious herb.

Nettle leaf tea

Nettle leaf tea is an excellent and extremely healthy herbal remedy. As an effective spring tonic and cleansing herb, it is used to treat anemia, relieve fatigue and cleanse the body of toxins and metabolic wastes.

It also contributes to the elimination of excess fluids from the body, regulates the digestive system and provides an amazing natural energy boost.

You may prepare your nettle infusion by pouring boiling water over the nettle leaves. Let them stay covered for 5 minutes. Take your tea slowly, only drinking very small sips at a time.

Nettle leaves are not to be cooked since they may lose some of their valuable nutrients.

It is not necessary to sweeten the tea. You may also use it in combination with other herbs, such as chamomile or mint.

Basic nettle leaf tea recipe:

Wash the nettle leaves thoroughly in cold water, cut them thin and pour 250 ml boiling water over 2 teaspoons nettle leaves. Cover the leaves and let them sit for about 5 minutes. Steep the tea and consume.

Nettle tea compresses

Nettle compresses are excellent for treating and relieving symptoms of chronic rheumatism and inflammation.

You may prepare them by pouring boiling water over the fresh nettle leaves. Soak a clean cloth in the liquid and apply it to the affected areas.

Compresses made from fresh nettle juice may be applied over the eyelids to treat eye discomforts and inflammation.

The traditional use of warm nettle compresses for drawing out venoms from the body has been known and practised for centuries.

Nettle bath

This stimulating bath is especially beneficial for rheumatic aches and pains (such as cramps), fatigue, foot fungus and cardiovascular diseases.

Place 200 grams of nettle in a linen bag (you may sew it up on your own by using sterile gauze) and float in hot bath water. Leave it for 10 minutes and then enjoy the bath. Spend at least 20 minutes in the bath. For best results, avoid showering after bath.

Apply this bath daily for 4 months.

Nettle syrup

Nettle syrup is an ancient blood-building elixir that stimulates kidney function and helps with asthma, allergies, and hair loss. It is also an excellent tonic for anemia.

Ingredients:

• 200 g fresh nettle tops
• 4 lemons
• 2 l water
• 1 kg honey

Directions:

Wash the fresh nettle tops thoroughly in cold water, cut the lemon in thin slices and place in a large saucepan. Let the mixture sit for 24 hours, then add honey and bring to a boil. Steep the liquid and cool. Pour into sterilised jars and store in a cool place.

This homemade syrup will maintain its freshness and quality for 6 months. Dilute the syrup in water before consumption.

Nettle root tincture

Nettle tincture is employed both externally and internally. It is a natural herbal remedy for anemia and a powerful immune system booster.

It also helps prevent urinary tract infections and viral infections and eases cold and flu symptoms.

This wonderful tincture soothes allergic reactions and relieves hay fever symptoms. It helps the body to get rid of excess fluid and promotes its cleansing and regeneration.

When applied externally, a few drops of nettle root tincture are rubbed into the scalp to strenghthen the hair roots and stimulate hair growth.

Ingredients:

 

·         200 g dried nettle root

·         100 ml alcohol (70%)

Directions:

Pour alcohol over the chopped nettle herbs (nettle root), cover with a lid and let it sit for 14 days (shake the mixture occasionally). Steep, pour into glass jars and store in a cool and dark place.

Application:

Take 20-30 drops of tincture, diluted in a glass of water 3 times per day.

If you use a store-bought tincture, pay attention to dosage notation.

Nettle harvesting and storage

Cultivation of stinging nettles does not require much effort since this plant may thrive in almost all types of soils.

Like other perennial herbs, stinging nettle is harvested mainly in the areas away from the roads and other contaminated grounds.

Young nettle leaves, harvested before they flower in spring, are the best part of the plant. They are most adequate for consumption and are among the most valuable herbal remedies.

The plants are best harvested in the spring, before they flower, from March to May. However, nettles may also be picked in autumn, before the flowers go to seeds.

While harvesting nettles, it is recommended to wear gloves to protect your hands from itching, rash or swelling caused by formic acid and histamine, the substances found in the hairy nettle leaves.

Nettles are picked when the leaves are young and are usually cut 10-15 centimetres at the top of the plant. The leaves may then be thermally processed for immediate consumption or dried and stored for later use.

Many housewives tend to stew the nettle leaves and freeze them for winter use to substitute spinach or turnip greens.

If you want to dry the nettle plant and use it throughout the year, dry the leaves in a shady and airy place. Store the dried leaves in cloth or paper bags.

Dig up nettle roots in early spring and late autumn. After having thoroughly cleaned them with a brush, dry them in a shady and airy place.

Gather nettle seeds in August and September.

 

Note:

Long-term consumption of stinging nettle may cause allergic reaction. In some cases it may trigger diarrhea and other digestive upsets.

If you consume nettle preparations in large doses, you should consult your doctor because nettle may interact with certain medications (blood thinners, antihypertensives, antidepressants and diabetes medications).

 

Sources for this article include:
http://consciouslifenews.com
http://www.herballegacy.com
http://www.nettlesforhealth.com

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