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Common Name:
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Stinging nettle
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Scientific Name:
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Urtica dioica
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Description:
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Stinging
nettle is a perennial plant that can
grow to a height of 1.5 meters (5 feet).
It has lance-shaped leaves with green
flowers and yellow stamens. Touching
the hairs on the leaves and stems can
cause a burning pain on the skin that
can last for hours. |
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Properties:
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The leaf
is anti-inflammatory and contains many
diuretic substances. The leaf also contains
quercetin, a substance that relieves
allergic symptoms and that may prevent
allergic responses. The root is used
to treat urinary problems. |
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Healing Properties:
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Nettle
takes the sting out of inflammation
and allergic reactions.
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Ailment Treated:
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Nettle is
used to treat coughs, tuberculosis,
arthritis, allergies, anemia, diminished
sex drive, urinary tract infections,
hives, and lupus. It also increases
milk production in nursing mothers.
The leaf is used to relieve hay fever,
seasonal allergies, kidney stones, and
an enlarged prostate. |
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Side Effects:
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Allergic
reactions such as rashes. |
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Contraindications:
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If nettle
is used daily, you should eat foods
high in potassium. |
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Do NOT use if:
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Do
not use nettle if you have heart or
kidney problems. Do not use nettle if
you are coming down with the flu. Pregnant
women should avoid this herb. |
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History:
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Stinging
nettle has a long history of being used
as food. The Greek physician Dioscorides
used it as a detoxifier. The 16th century
herbalist John Gerard used it as an
antidote to poison. |
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Growth Habitat:
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Found
in temperate climates around the world. |
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Organs Used:
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Leaves and
roots. |
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Type of Use:
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Tea,
tincture, and ointment. |
