The potency of the stinging nettle
The stinging nettle is a medicinal plant. The plant can thrive in nutrient-rich soil. Furthermore, the plant plays a crucial role in the diet of caterpillars, serving as a primary food source for many butterfly species. For certain species, nettles constitute the sole source of nourishment, thus explaining the nomenclature of certain species of butterflies referred to as nettle butterflies. Such species include the red admiral, the comma butterfly and the small tortoiseshell.
Stinging nettles germinate in shaded and sun-exposed areas within nutrient-rich soil. As we'll talk about in more detail, it is recommended that every garden include a ‘wild' spot for stinging nettles. Such a location could be near the compost or on a board.
I want to let you know that the first encounter with the stinging hairs of this green perennial plant is often characterised by a certain degree of discomfort, typically experienced during childhood. This characteristic renders the stinging nettle a prominent plant that can be identified without light. To mitigate the potential for adverse dermatological reactions when harvesting nettles, it is advisable to grasp the plants in the direction of growth, from the base to the apex. It is imperative to ensure the protection of the skin by donning gloves. After a brief boiling period, the hairs' capacity to inflict harm is significantly reduced.
Notwithstanding, the herb can also be consumed raw, for example, when blended. Nettles can be prepared as a base for salads, soups, or pestos, similar to spinach. Furthermore, adding nettles to dishes such as quiches, pizzas, and green smoothies is highly recommended. Roasted nettle seeds have also been a valuable addition to muesli or salad.
The health-promoting properties of the nettle are well-documented, and it is considered a valuable medicinal plant within the field of naturopathy and embraced within conventional medicine. The plant, which can absorb and retain nitrogen from the atmosphere, is often found near human settlements and is a valuable source of essential nutrients. The leaves and shoot tips of the plant contain various active ingredients. These include minerals such as calcium, magnesium and potassium; vitamins A, C (stinging nettles provide twice the vitamin C content of oranges) and E; iron; silicon in the form of soluble silicic acid; protein; various plant pigments such as chlorophyll; tannins; carotenoids; phytohormones and flavonoids.
Potassium, for instance, has been shown to induce water excretion in the body, exerting a diuretic effect. The plant pigments have been shown to possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In addition to the leaves, other plant components, such as roots and seeds, can also be processed. Notable constituents within nettle seeds include omega-6 fatty acid, linoleic acid, and vitamin E. The global distribution of stinging nettles is extensive. The parent plants are classified under the scientific names Urtica dioica (the tremendous stinging nettle) and Urtica urens (the small stinging nettle).
The great stinging nettle (Urtica dioica), a perennial herb with pointed leaves, is most commonly found in this country. In Central Europe, these plants typically grow from thirty centimetres to one metre. The stems of these plants are characterised by the presence of fine ‘stinging hairs'. These contain formic acid, a defensive chemical that protects plants from harmful organisms.
Skin irritation
The plant's scientific name, Urtica dioica, derives from the Latin words for nettle and sting, thus giving the plant its name. Upon contact with the skin, the ‘stinging hair' tip ruptures and penetrates the skin's surface, thereby inducing minimal wounds. This process results in the sensation of stinging and the subsequent development of small redness spots.
The clinical manifestation of urticaria/hives is analogous to that observed in cases of contact with the stinging nettle. However, I would like to point out that the causative agent of urticaria/hives is not the stinging nettle plant itself.
It is often considered both unpleasant and useless in the context of gardening. This is partly due to a lack of awareness regarding the significant health benefits this medicinal plant from the Urticaceae family offers.
Of the numerous stinging nettle varieties worldwide (except those in Antarctica), some are cultivated in this country. The stinging nettle (Urtica dioica) has been recognised since ancient Greece. However, in many regions, it is regarded as an undesirable weed. The appellation ‘nettle' is derived from the figure of Nessous from Greek mythology. Since ancient times, stinging nettles have been used as a medicinal plant. Nettle seeds, when consumed in wine, were believed to possess aphrodisiac properties. In the Middle Ages, baths with fresh nettles were recommended for rheumatism, and a pulp of fresh leaves was said to promote hair growth. The latter claim remains uncontested. The utilisation of nettle has evolved, with the plant being employed in various forms, including nettle tea, powder, capsules, and juice.
The optimal time for harvesting nettle leaves is in May, just before the plant flowers. Currently, the content of active and aromatic ingredients is exceptionally high. Despite the ubiquity of nettles in meadows, along the borders of pathways, and within forest settings, it is imperative to acknowledge the frequency with which domestic animals defecate in these locations. To circumvent such contamination, using protected areas such as gardens is recommended.
Urtica dioica has been used since immemorial to control cardiovascular diseases and incredibly high blood pressure. The leaf extract is reputed to enhance glucose homeostasis. Nettle root has also been shown to have a counteractive effect on prostate enlargement. Nettle extracts have also been shown to possess significant anti-inflammatory properties, benefiting individuals with rheumatoid arthritis.
The healing properties of nettles are widely documented and include the following:
- Anti-allergic properties,
- Blood-purifying and blood-building,
- Detoxifying,
- Diuretic,
- Immune-boosting,
- Lactiferous,
- Stimulating (digestion),
- Metabolism-boosting
Traditionally, Urtica dioica is used to treat allergies, intestinal and stomach ulcers, diabetes, circulatory disorders, eczema, gallbladder and liver disease, spleen disorders, gout, hair loss and dandruff, urinary tract infections, gastritis, kidney stones, rheumatism and even constipation.
Using stinging nettles to treat bladder complaints has been a subject of interest. The flavonoids in nettle leaves, as secondary plant substances, have been observed to have a diuretic and cleansing effect. The efficacy of plant-based remedies, including nettle products, in treating bladder dysfunction has gained significant traction among healthcare professionals. It is widely accepted that increased fluid intake leads to enhanced excretion of toxins from the body. This property of nettle leaves has led to their utilisation in treating urinary tract infections.
Research Since the 1980s, there has been a significant focus on investigating traditional medicinal plants and their effects on nutrition science and naturopathy. The efficacy of nettle leaf ingredients in managing oedema has been well-documented. In addition, clinical studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of nettle root extract in addressing prostate-related issues. Most participants experienced reduced symptoms, with improved urine flow being a notable example.
The potential of stinging nettle in treating arthritis has also been investigated.
Nettle has diuretic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties thanks to its plant dyes. A substantial corpus of specialist literature endorses the use of nettle in the management of arthritis. The anti-inflammatory effect of nettle extract has been proven in clinical studies for patients suffering from osteoarthritis and rheumatism.
The utilisation of nettle tea or extracts as a liniment for joint complaints has also been documented. For this purpose, fresh leaves are partially processed, or a nettle extract can be prepared. Fresh nettle leaves are boiled down until a concentrated brew is obtained. This extract can be ingested or applied topically to inflamed joints, followed by bandaging. Notably, nettles have been demonstrated to be efficacious in addressing a wide range of joint complaints and inflammatory processes.
It is recommended that moderate doses of nettle leaves or extracts are used or taken regularly. However, it should be noted that excessive intake can result in the excretion of excess electrolytes in the urine. Notably, nettle products have been observed to reduce blood sugar levels, necessitating close monitoring for individuals diagnosed with diabetes. Individuals with renal problems should consult their physician before initiating nettle products, particularly if they experience increased urination. The same applies to oedema. Individuals with underlying health concerns affecting the heart or kidneys are strongly advised to seek medical counsel before incorporating nettle tea into their diet. Even healthy individuals should moderate their intake of nettle tea and ensure regular breaks to avoid dehydration.
