The stinging nettle (Urtica dioica) is maybe the best herb for supporting the formation of blood. Nettles are also one of the best blood-purifiers, which is why they are part of my spring detox, just like dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) and ramson (Allium ursinum). I use the freshly picked nettles in my regular juices and my smoothies. In a plastic bag they stay fresh in the refrigerator for a few days, but they will lose some nutrient content and vital energy. Still way better than most, if not all, ‘food’ that you can buy in the supermarket. Stinging nettles are unmatched energy & nutrient bombs. And even kale looks like a weakling in comparison. (More info down below.)
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Later during the year you want to use (the top of) the nettle plant with all those seeds in your smoothies and juices.
The seeds are a real powerhouse of energy.
I consider them to be much better (and cheaper) than ginseng.
Those who integrate lots of stinging nettle seeds in their diet will find this to be not an exaggeration on my part.
Stinging Nettle Benefits
Nettle (also known as Stinging Nettles) has been used for centuries to treat allergy symptoms, particularly hayfever which is the most common allergy problem. It contains biologically active compounds that reduce inflammation. Dr. Andrew Wiel M.D. author of Natural Health/ Natural Medicine says he knows of nothing more effective than nettle for allergy relief. And his statement is backed up by studies at the National College of Naturopathic Medicine in Portland, Oregon.
Health benefits
Fewer side effects than prescription medications
Decongestants, antihistamines, allergy shots and even prescription medications such as Allegra and Claritin treat only the symptoms of allergies and tend to lose effectiveness over a period of time. They can also cause drowsiness, dry sinuses, insomnia and high blood pressure. Nettle has none of these side effects. It can be used on a regular basis and has an impressive number of other benefits most notably as a treatment for prostate enlargement.
Potential for treating disease
Nettle has been studied extensively and has shown promise in treating Alzheimer’s disease, arthritis, asthma, bladder infections, bronchitis, bursitis, gingivitis, gout, hives, kidney stones, laryngitis, multiple sclerosis, PMS, prostate enlargement, sciatica, and tendinitis. Externally it has been used to improve the appearance of the hair, and is said to be a remedy against oily hair and dandruff.
Healing properties
In Germany today stinging nettles are sold as an herbal drug for prostate diseases and as a diuretic. It is a common ingredient in other herbal drugs produced in Germany for rheumatic complaints and inflammatory conditions (especially for the lower urinary tract and prostate). In the United States many remarkable healing properties are attributed to nettle and the leaf is utilized for different problems than the root. The leaf is used here as a diuretic, for arthritis, prostatitis, rheumatism, rheumatoid arthritis, high blood pressure and allergic rhinitis. The root is recommended as a diuretic, for relief of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and other prostate problems, and as a natural remedy to treat or prevent baldness.
An infusion of the plant is very valuable in stemming internal bleeding. It is also used to treat anaemia, excessive menstruation, hemorrhoids, arthritis, rheumatism and skin complaints, especially eczema. Externally, the plant is used to treat skin complaints, arthritic pain, gout, sciatica, neuralgia, hemorrhoids and hair problems.
Reduces arthritis pain
Taken orally, products made from nettle’s aerial parts may interfere with the body’s production of prostaglandins and other inflammation-causing chemicals. Consequently, nettle may have an anti-inflammatory effect. It may also enhance responses of the immune system. Chemicals in nettle’s aerial parts are also thought to reduce the feeling of pain or interfere with the way that nerves send pain signals. All of these effects may reduce the pain and stiffness of arthritis and other similar conditions.
Reduces allergy symptoms
In addition, nettle’s aerial parts may reduce the amount of histamine that is produced by the body in response to an allergen. An allergen is a substance such as pollen that may provoke an exaggerated immune response in individuals who are sensitive to it. Through this potential action, the aerial parts of nettle may help to reduce allergy symptoms. Results from one human study are promising, but more research is needed to be conclusive.
Relieve skin irritation and muscle pain
A solution of the extract may be applied to the skin to relieve joint pain and muscle aches. Astringent properties of nettle aerial parts may also help to lessen the swelling of hemorrhoids and stop bleeding from minor skin injuries such as razor nicks. An astringent shrinks and tightens the top layers of skin or mucous membranes, thereby reducing secretions, relieving irritation, and improving tissue firmness. It may also be used topically for dandruff and overly oily hair and scalp.
This herb should be used for a minimum of 30 days for full effects.
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Nettle Herb Notes / Side Effects
Latin Names
Uritca dioica, Urtica galeopsifolia
Common Names
Nettle, Big String Nettle, Common Nettle, Stinging Nettle, Gerrais, Isirgan, Kazink, Nabat Al Nar, Ortiga, Grande Ortie, Ortie, Urtiga, Chichicaste, Brennessel, Gross d
Ortie, Racine dOrtie, Grote Brandnetel, Ortiga Mayor, Devils LeafProperties
Analgesic, anti-inflammatory, anti-allergenic, anti-anaphylactic,anti-rheumatic, anti-asthmatic, anti-convulsant, anti-dandruff, anti-histamine, astringent, decongestant, depurative, diuretic, hemostatic, hypoglycemic, hypotensive, galactagogue, immunomodulator, prostate tonic, stimulating tonic
Indicated for
Seasonal allergies, arthritis, bronchitis, bursitis, gingivitis, laryngitis, prostatitis, rhinitis, sinusitis, tendinitis, BPH, rheumatism and other inflammatory conditions. High blood pressure, hair loss, anaemia, excessive menstruation, hemorrhoids, eczema, gout, sciatica, neuralgia, hemorrhoids. Alzheimer’s disease, asthma, bladder infections, hives, kidney stones, multiple sclerosis, PMS, prostate enlargement and sciatica.
Nettle may lower blood pressure and heart rate. It may also lower blood sugar. Whilst this may be beneficial, if you are on a set dosage of diabetic medication you may find your blood sugar ends up too low with the combined effect of both your medication AND nettle lowering blood sugar.
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