Stinging Nettle

Stinging Nettle (Urtica dioica)

Stinging nettles grow to a height between 3 – 6 feet (90 – 180cm). Herbal medicine uses the aerial parts of the young plants which contain flavonoids, histamine, choline, acetylcholine, serotonin, glucoquinone, calcium, potassium, silicic acid, iron, formic acid, 5-hydroxytryptamine, chlorophyll, manganese, sulphur, vitamin A and vitamin C. The plat roots contain phenols and plant sterols.

Nettles is known to act as a diuretic, tonic, astringent, prevents hemorrhaging, antiallergenic, reduces prostate enlargement, and is anti-inflammatory as well as anti-arthritic.

Traditionally and currently, nettles are used for cleansing and detoxifying the body. Its diuretic action, possible due to the flavonoids and potassium content, increases urine production and elimination of waste products. Nettles are used for skin conditions as well.

Nettles are great for slowing or stopping bleeding from wounds or nosebleeds. Heavy menstrual bleeding is also helped with nettles.

Nettle leaves assist anemia and improves breast milk production.

Nettle is an amazing hair conditioner. It enhances hair gloss. It is also known to stop hair loss.

If you suffer from arthritis, the stinging nettle may be of some help. Nettles are high in boron which is recommended for arthritis. Take up to 6 435mg capsules per day or 1 cup of tea per day, divided into 3 doses (1 teaspoon of dried herb in 1 cup hot water).

For allergy or hay fever sufferers, nettles can help relieve symptoms. Take 300mg of dried herb capsules 3 times per day.

Got hives, take 1 to 2 cups of nettle tea per day or up to 6 400mg capsules per day.

Osteoporosis sufferers can take up to 6 500mg capsules daily or up to 3 cups of tea daily.

If an enlarged prostate is causing you grief, then nettles in combination with saw palmetto may be your solution. Take 300 – 600mg of nettle root extract daily or ½ to 1 teaspoon tincture per day.

Have a healthy day,

John