Stinging Nettles

Stinging Nettle Benefits and Facts

>Stinging nettles have historically been used as both a food source and a herbal remedy. The nettle leaf, stalk, and root are all used.

Nettle leaves and stems were gathered by American Indians during the spring and were a valuable food source when other plants were not yet mature enough to eat. In Europe the young plants are often used in Nettle Soup. Nettles are high in Vitamin C, iron, chlorophyll, and contains a surprising amount of protein.

The leaves, stems, and stalk of the nettle plant have tiny hairs which contain chemicals that are irritating to the skin and cause what is called a nettle rash. Even a soft touch will cause the skin to immediately sting, itch, and even swell. The sting can last quite a long time. Cooking the plant eliminates this.

Nettles are used to treat:

• hay fever/allergies
  
• arthritis/joint pain
  
• reduced urinary flow caused by enlarged prostrate
  
• sinusitis

Nettles are available dried, freeze dried, in capsules, and as an extract. You can gather your own nettles. Tie the stems together and hang in a dark, dry place to dry. Be sure to wear gloves and protective clothing.

Nettle Herb

Nettle tea can be made with both fresh and dried leaves. Just pour boiling hot water over the leaves and steep for a few minutes. Cooked nettles taste like spinach. Add fresh nettle leaves when making vegetable soup or make a nettle soup by adding leaves to chicken or beef broth.

Nettles are considered to be safe but some precautions need to be taken. Do not use nettles if you are:

• pregnant
  
• taking blood thinning drugs
  
• taking drugs for high blood pressure
  
• taking drugs for diabetes
  
• taking NSAIDs

Do not take nettles if you think you have an enlarged prostrate before seeing a doctor. It will probably be fine to do so but you must rule out the possibility of cancer.