Stinging Nettles
The nutrient-rich Stinging Nettle plant has been used as both food and medicine for centuries. The leaf is primarily used for allergy reactions and as a diuretic to relieve temporary water weight gain and also to promote urinary tract health.
Nettle is an incredible source of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, trace minerals, flavonoids and a many other nutrients. It is rich in nutrients such as chlorophyll, beta-carotene, magnesium, potassium, calcium, plant-based iron, and more! It’s no wonder Nettle’s list of therapeutic benefits fills the pages of herbal guides and that the herb is included in many formulas. In addition to alleviating any type of allergy, this mineral-rich tonic is hailed as a remarkable blood cleanser and builder, as well as a rejuvenating spring tonic. Nettle Leaf also supports healthy kidney function in addition to joint health for comfort and flexibility.
Common Uses:
Allergies (teary eyes, runny nose); hay fever; increase flow of urine; urinary tract health; supports kidney/bladder health; nutrient-rich tonic; blood builder; blood purifier.
More on Nettles:
What is Stinging Nettles? Many people that traipse around nature already know what Nettles are. Their first experience was probably touching the plant. The sting of Nettles is not to be forgotten feeling very similar to a bee sting. The stem of this plant is covered with tiny “hairs” that release a burning fluid made of histamine and formic acid. Touching this results in inflammation and pain. Stinging Nettle is one of the most nutrient-rich plants providing us with calcium, magnesium, iron, silicon, sulfur, sodium, copper, manganese, chromium, zinc and vitamins A, C, D, E, F, and P, antioxidants to help fight cancer and is also rich in chlorophyll. You can prepare young Nettle tops as you would spinach and also substitute in recipes that call for spinach. A Nettles rinse can be used in the hair to restore its color. Many people around the world believe the sting of Nettles will relieve arthritis. You may have heard of using Bee stings for this. I’d rather be stung by Nettles! The list continues of Nettles benefits.
But where do Stinging Nettles shine? As a remedy for hay fever! This one plant has provided much needed relief for many people that suffer from allergies. Hay Fever is such a common allergy problem this time of year. How convenient to find Stinging Nettles along the roadside! By the way, it’s good to know you don’t need to expose Nettles to the naked skin to receive the benefits. They lose their sting once they’re dried or boiled and remain a very effective remedy.
NSP product that contains stinging nettles: HistaBlock stock number 776-1
Excellent references used for the content of this newsletter:
Herbal Hour Blog – theherbpeddler.com/herbalhour
Nature’s Field – vol. 17 no. Stinging Nettle, article by Steven Horne, AHG
The Ultimate Healing System, by Donald Lepore, N.D.
Herbs of the Bible, 2000 Years of Plant Medicine, by James A. Duke, Ph.D.
Advanced Herbology Capstone, National Association of Certified Natural Health Professionals
[The contents of this article are meant to provide education, not to provide medical diagnosis or treatment of medical diseases. Having control of your own health and well-being includes knowing when to seek medical help. It’s recommended that you consult with a competent health practitioner with professional background in natural healing before attempting to treat yourself. Please consult with your licensed medical professional for medical concerns. Use common sense to help keep you safe and healthy.]
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