Nettle
(Urtica dioica)
Also know as Stinging nettle
Botanical Information
An upright perennial herb spreading by creeping underground stems from the Nettle family with bristly leaves beset with stinging hairs. The plant has sprays of nondescript flowers.
Working with Nettle
Part(s) Used
Leaf, rhizome
Herb Forms
Tincture, capsule, bulk herb.
Nettles, known to be rich in chlorophyll and minerals, are used for anemia and weak blood and have shown antiallergic properties in hay fever. The cool tea is taken for urinary problems, such as cystitis and gravel. Nettles increase the excretion of uric acid and are used internally or externally for arthritis and rheumatism. Nettles are slightly diuretic, cleansing, and hemostatic. The rhizomes are often recommended by herbalists in Europe to alleviate inflammation and swelling of the prostate gland and are blended with saw palmetto. The nettle greens are among the most nutritious foods known, containing a large portion of vitamins, minerals, chlorophyl, and a complete protein. The powdered or fresh greens can be used as a tea or food to help build the blood in cases of blood deficiency with fatigue, or as a preventative; useful during pregnancy. After steaming, the stinging properties are completely destroyed.
Nettles has a taste of SALTY, BITTER and a temperature of COOL.
Cautions
The fresh leaves can cause skin rash.
Conditions treated with Nettle
Condition
Treatment Support
Application
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Condition
Treatment Support
blood builder
Application
tincture, capsule, tablet, tea
Condition
Treatment Support
mineral tonic
Application
tincture, externally; homeopathic tablet internally
Condition
Treatment Support
nutritive tonic
Application
tea, extract
Condition
Treatment Support
antihistamine, antiallergen
Application
tincture, tablets, capsules, tea
Condition
Treatment Support
mineral tonic
Application
tea internally and as a rinse
The information given here is designed to help you make informed choices about your health. The information is drawn from numerous sources—both traditional medicine practice, from the clinical experience of many herbalists currently practicing, and supported by decades of scientific research from the author. The research most consulted includes human clinical trials that help to determine the most effective and safe herbs for various needs, the best doses, and types of preparations.
The information offered in this database is not intended as a substitute for any that may have been prescribed by your health practitioner or physician.