Stinging nettle leaf, or Urtica dioica, is a nutritious herb that has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. It is a perennial plant that grows in many regions of the world, and is often considered a weed due to its ability to grow in almost any condition.
Stinging nettle leaf is a rich source of vitamins and minerals, including iron, calcium, and vitamins A and C. It also contains a variety of bioactive compounds, such as flavonoids and phenolic acids, that are believed to contribute to its many health benefits.
One of the most well-known uses of stinging nettle leaf is its ability to reduce inflammation in the body. It has been used for centuries to treat conditions such as arthritis, gout, and other inflammatory disorders. Studies have also shown that stinging nettle leaf can help reduce allergy symptoms, such as sneezing and itching, by inhibiting the production of histamine.
Stinging nettle leaf is also known for its diuretic properties, making it an excellent natural remedy for urinary tract infections and other conditions that cause fluid retention. It has also been shown to have a positive effect on blood sugar levels, making it a potentially useful herb for people with diabetes.
To brew stinging nettle leaf tea, simply steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried stinging nettle leaves in a cup of hot water for 5-10 minutes. The tea has a slightly grassy, earthy flavor that can be improved with a bit of honey or lemon.
In addition to tea, stinging nettle leaf can be used in a variety of other ways. It can be added to soups, stews, and other dishes as a nutrient-rich ingredient, or taken in capsule or tincture form for a more concentrated dose of its health benefits.
STINGING NETTLE Urtica dioica
The plant is harvested in May and June before flowering when the stinging hairs are rich in histamine and serotonin. Leaves are used fresh or dried to make infusions while roots may be dried and powdered for capsules or used fresh.
Constituents
The leaves contain both iron and vitamin C – which aids iron absorption They also contain other minerals, especially calcium, potassium and silicic acid, as well as phenols and flavonoids. The roots are rich in poly-saccharides, lecitin, several phenolic compounds and sterols.
Medical uses
Nettle, was an old remedy for many ailments.
Nettle stimulates the lymph system to boost immunity, nettle relieves arthritis symptoms, nettle promotes a release from uric acid from joints, helps to support the adrenals, it helps with diabetes mellitus, promotes milk production in lactating women, relieves menopausal symptoms, helps with menstrual cramps and bloating, helps break down kidney stones, supports the kidneys, Helps asthma sufferers, stops bleeding, reduces inflammation, reduces incident of prostate cancer, minimizes skin problems, Lessens nausea, cures the common cold, helps with osteoarthritis, alleviates diarrhea, helps with gastrointestinal disease, IBS, and constipation, Reduces gingivitis and prevents plaque when used as a mouth wash, has been shown to be helpful to in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease, relieves neurological disorders like MS, ALS and sciatica, destroys intestinal worms or parasites
You can brew stinging nettle leaves in almost boiling water and drink daily as a curative to all these ailments. Just be sure to check with your doctor since nettle can interfere with certain pharmaceuticals.
CAUTIONS:
-if taken over a long period, nettle leaves can cause skin rashes
-may cause gastric inflammation
-do not self-prescribe for prostate problems – seek for medical advice
-do not use if taking medication to treat diabetes, high or low blood pressure, or to depress the central nervous system
-do not take if pregnant or breastfeeding
We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications
For educational purposes only This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease
