Did You Know That… Stinging Nettle

by hbhs07, posted in Did You Know?

Did you know that stinging nettle is one of the most powerful medicinal plants in the world? Keep reading to learn the facts.

Stinging Nettle

A Powerful Plant

Stinging nettle is known to be one of the most potent medicinal plants in the world. It is considered to be one of the herbal miracles. It contains a large amount of bioactive nutrients such as polyphenols, and antioxidants that neutralize radical oxidative processes in the body that can cause many health problems, such as inflammation, skin ageing and diseases. Stinging nettle contains vitamin A, C, K, and B complex. It has large amounts of minerals such as selenium, magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, potassium, iron, boron and zinc. It is also rich in protein.

Medicinal Properties of Stinging Nettle

There are many medicinal properties of using nettle in the diet. Some of the benefits include:

  • Can help relieve arthritic pain – A study shows that nettle extract given with a quarter of the amount of arthritis medicine relieves the same amount of pain compared to the full amount of the medication. Another study found that using   fresh nettle leaves significantly reduced arthritis pain in patients;
  • Promotes thyroid health – Nutrients found in stinging nettle can help regulate thyroid function;
  • Anti-ageing properties – Studies have shown that nettle extract used in cosmetic products works as an anti-ageing complex;
  • Anti-microbial properties – A study shows that water extract of nettle leaf can help reduce the overgrowth of tested bacteria and fungi;
  • Improves prostate health – It can reduce an enlarged prostate and reduce urinary tract infections;
  • Can help reduce menopausal pain – Regular use of nettle tea can reduce menopausal pain;
  • Promotes women’s health – Nutrients found in stinging nettle can reduce pain, cramps and bloating and minimize blood flow during menstruation;
  • Anti-inflammatory properties – Studies have shown that drinking nettle tea can reduce inflammation in the body;
  • Strengthens bones – The boron that is contained in stinging the nettle helps maintain the level of calcium in the bones, which slows down the development of osteoporosis;

Stinging nettle is one of the most powerful medicinal plants

  • Helps respiratory system health – Stinging nettle can help treat respiratory problems such as asthma, hay fever and other seasonal allergies;
  • Improves circulation – The high amount of vitamin C and iron in the stinging nettle promotes the formation of red blood cells, thus fights anaemia, general muscle weakness, headache and fatigue;
  • Promotes heart health – Studies have shown that regular consumption of nettle tea can help lower blood pressure and relieve stress and tension in the cardiovascular system;
  • Prevents formation of kidney stones – Stinging nettle can help break down stones in the kidneys and gallbladder;
  • Detoxifies the body – The stinging nettle is a diuretic, therefore it helps remove toxins from the body;
  • Promotes skin health – Stinging nettle extract can help treat acne, as well as skin infections, reduce the appearance of scars and blemishes, enhance anti-ageing effect and reduce wrinkles and age spots;
  • Promotes hair health – Nettle tea used as a hair rinse can promote hair growth and health.
Stinging Nettle

How to Use Stinging nettle

Stinging nettle can be used in the form of infusion, juice or tincture. It can be used as a tea, added to dishes, in the form of alcohol tincture, water extract, in green smoothies or syrup. The leaves and shoots can be prepared as lightly steamed or blanched leafy green vegetables or they can be used to make fresh nettle juice. Cooked nettles have a similar flavour and texture to that of spinach and can be used in many dishes as an alternative to spinach. Row nettles can be an excellent ingredient processed into pesto sauces or mixed into salad dressings and dips. Nettle root can also be taken as a liquid or powdered extract or used dried in tea concoctions. Fibrose stems can be used as a source of fibre for making textiles and ropes. It is mostly used as a nourishing and energizing tea and food source.

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➥ DISCLAIMER: This post is not intended to replace medical treatment. The information provided is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.