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So how can this plant that seems like something to stay away from at first contact
actually become a medicinal go-to? Let’s find out.
While best known for the stinging reaction that occurs when the skin comes into
contact with the fine hairs located on its leaves and stems, when processed and
used medicinally, stinging nettle has a number of helpful health benefits,
according to the Department of Dermatology at the Penn State University
College of Medicine. (1)
Most stinging nettle products are made from the stem and leaves, but the roots
also have pharmacological qualities. The herb has anti-inflammatory qualities that
can affect treatment of many health issues. (2) The aboveground parts have
typically aided in allergy relief and other breathing-related problems. The roots
are able to provide relief for urinary disorders and enlarged prostate as well.
When brushed up against, the fragile tips of the hair break off and the remaining
hair becomes a small needle, able to deliver the chemicals into the skin. The
reaction can cause pain, redness, swelling, itching and numbness.
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, the plant has been used
most commonly throughout history as a diuretic and for treating painful muscles
and joints, eczema, arthritis, gout, and anemia. Today, it’s used primarily to treat
urinary issues, as well as allergies and joint pain.
The most proven health benefits of using stinging nettle help with the following:
Doctors are still not entirely sure why stinging nettle alleviates some of these
symptoms, but many clinical studies infer that it contains chemicals that affect the
hormones that cause BPH. When taken, it also directly affects prostate cells.
Stinging nettle root extract has also been shown to slow or stop the spread of
prostate cancer cells. (4) It’s usually used in combination with saw palmetto and
Stinging nettle is used as a successful general diuretic and can help urine flow as
well. It’s also used in home remedies for bladder infections.
Arthritis sufferers often experience joint pain, typically in the hands, knees, hips
and spine. Nettle works alongside nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
to allow patients to decrease their NSAID use. Because prolonged use of NSAIDs
can cause a number of serious side effects, this is an ideal pairing.
Studies also show that applying nettle leaf topically at the site of pain decreases
joint pain and can treat arthritis. Nettle can also provide relief when taken orally.
Another study published in the Journal of Rheumatology shows stinging
nettle’s anti-inflammatory power against other autoimmune diseases like
rheumatoid arthritis. (5)
3. Hay Fever
There is also evidence that in severe reactions, low plasma histamine levels (as
opposed to high levels) are present. Another global study from the National
College of Naturopathic Medicine found that stinging nettle use for allergy relief
was rated higher than placebos in a 98-person, randomized, double-blind study.
Certain products containing stinging nettle have shown, when applied to the
skin, can reduce bleeding during surgery. The product, called Ankaferd blood
stopper, is made up of alpinia, licorice, thyme, common grape vine and stinging
nettle, and has also shown evidence of reducing bleeding after dental surgery.
(9)
5. Eczema
Eczema is a dry, itchy rash that can last on sufferers for a very long time. Because
of stinging nettle’s antihistamine and anti-inflammatory qualities, it can be
a natural treatment for eczema, as the Penn State University College of
Medicine study referenced above notes. Sufferers can use a combination of
nettle taken orally to tackle the eczema internally, as well as a cream to provide
relief from the rash’s itch and redness.
Promote lactation
Stimulate hair growth
Help control blood sugar in patients with diabetes
Reduce bleeding connected to gingivitis
Treat disorders of the kidneys and urinary tract
Provide relief from water retention
Prevent or treat diarrhea
Decrease menstrual flow
Provide asthma relief
Heal wounds
Treat hemorrhoids
Stimulate contractions in pregnant women
Treat insect bites
Treat tendonitis
Treat anemia
1. Nettle Tea
Stinging nettle leaves and flowers can be dried, and the dried leaves can be
steeped and made into a tea. There are many variations of nettle tea recipes that
feature a number of other herbs like raspberry leaf, echinacea or goldenseal.
2. Cooked Nettle
Stinging nettle leaves can be stemmed and cooked similar to spinach. Once
cooked, they can be added to soup or stew. Nettle has also been pureed and
used in recipes like polenta, green smoothies, salads and pesto.
When cooked, the nettle has a flavor similar to spinach mixed with cucumber.
Cooked nettle is a great source of vitamins A, C, protein and iron. (10)
3. Topical Nettle
Stinging nettle extract and root tinctures can be applied directly to joints and
painful areas of the body. Stinging nettle is also available in cream form.
Stinging nettle capsules and tablets can be taken orally. There is inconclusive
evidence on whether stinging nettle capsules or tablets for allergy relief are
better ingested on an empty stomach or not. If there is concern about upset
stomach and other side effects, take stinging nettle with food.
There are many people who choose dock plant for relief from nettle stings,
despite studies showing it does not provide any medicinal benefits aside from
making the irritated area feel cool. Crushed leaves from other plants like
jewelweed, sage, as well as the stinging nettles leaves themselves release juices
that can provide relief from the sting. Other traditional anti-itch treatments like
aloe vera, calamine lotion and cold compresses can be used as well.
Stinging nettle has been used to make textiles like cloth and paper since
Neolithic times. With fibers similar to hemp and flax, it’s a great alternative,
sustainable fiber. Because the fiber is hollow, it provides natural insulation. The
German army used nettle for their uniforms in World War I and used its leaves to
dye uniforms in World War II.
Stinging nettles also were used to treat certain diseases by urtication, which is
the process of beating the skin with nettles to stimulate blood circulation.
When harvesting: Always harvest stinging nettle with thick gardening gloves to
avoid being stung. It’s also best to harvest young plant parts, preferably in the
spring. They become more bitter after they flower and as they age.
When using with other herbs and supplements: As with any herb or
supplement, it’s important to be cautious when mixing to avoid adverse side
effects. You should always start an herbal supplement plan under the care of
your health care provider. Patients may have to change their dosages of other
supplements if they choose to take stinging nettle.
When you’re a diabetic: There is evidence that shows stinging nettle’s ability to
affect blood sugar and interfere with controlling diabetes. It can also affect the
strength of diabetes drugs and increase the risk of hypoglycemia. Diabetics who
want to use stinging nettle should only do so under the supervision of their
health care providers. Patients may have to change their dosages of medications
if they choose to take stinging nettle.
When you first start: Some people have upset stomach, diarrhea or other mild
reactions when they first take stinging nettle. It’s best to ease into usage, starting
with a small dosage.
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