The healing properties of nettle (Stinging nettle)

For thousands of years, medicinal plants have thrived in various natural areas. Nevertheless, people do not know all the secrets that nature provides. It is not enough to know the plant and its general characteristics, but we also need to know when is the right time to harvest the plants. Today we will have a look at the "Stinging nettle" (Latin name: Urtica dioica), which belongs to the nettle family. Stinging nettle leaves and roots have healing effects. Its stem is quadrangular in shape, grows erect and is surrounded by coarse hair. Leaves on long stalks are driven in pairs and transverse to the stem. They are spherical in shape and are edged with sawtooths and coarse, fragile hair.

When they get in contact with humans, the plant hairs are trapped in the skin and a burning sensation is released. The plant grows to a height of about 1.5 meters and is quite resistant to cold and various diseases. They are a nutrient for caterpillars and butterflies. The best time to harvest the plant is in the spring, when it has not bloomed yet. It can also be harvested in midsummer and fall with the use of protective gloves. Nettle thrives in moist soil rich in nitrogen and nutrient-dense soil (grows in fertilized uncultivated soil, along walls, hedges, and near forest paths). In general, the healing effects are the following: beneficial effects on the digestive tract, healing effects on urination, improving metabolism, alleviating prostate problems, improving menstrual problems, improving circulation, eliminating hemorrhoids, improving the vascular system and stopping bleeding from the lungs, kidneys, uterus, and the gut. Inserting the tincture into the body helps with rheumatic pain due to the histamine content. Chlorophyll content also improves the human blood count. Nettle contains: vitamin C, carotene (vitamin A), vitamin K, vitamin B2, pantothenic acid & other substances.

Roots can be dug in the autumn days and left to air dry so that they are not exposed to the sun. Modern medicine proves that the roots inhibit the fouling of the tissue of the scalp. The roots, thus cure weak urinary flow and frequent urination. An effective healing potion for detoxifying the body can be prepared by placing two large tablespoons of dried nettles in 1-2 liters of cold water in the evening. The next morning we pass the spoon and the potion is ready. The drink partially lowers the sugar in the body, which has a positive effect on reducing the chances of developing diabetes. Alternatively tea can be prepared that has a pleasant soft taste. For tea, use five teaspoons of leaves per 1 dcl of water 3-4 times a day. It is interesting to note that in the spring people sometimes used cooked nettle leaves for various diets and detoxification of the body after the winter. You can use the tips of the leaves of plants that are lower and do not have developed burning ingredients.

You can cook the leaves in a similar way to spinach or add them to soups and other vegetable dishes. It should also be emphasized that raw leaves should not be consumed as should older leaves as they may contain calcium oxalate. A look back: 300 years ago, people with nettles were scrambling to relieve the pain caused by arthritis. Of course, it is strongly recommended that you discuss all information regarding with herbs with your doctor or pharmacist. It can be said that the Stinging nettle is a universal medicinal plant that helps with many health problems and is therefore noteworthy for a deeper observation.

A disclaimer: IT IS STRONGLY RECOMMENDED THAT YOU DISCUSS ALL INFORMATION REGARDING WITH HERBS WITH YOUR DOCTOR OR PHARMACIST BEFORE ANY USAGE!