Nettle health benefits
Nettle, scientifically known as Urtica dioica, is an ancient stinging herb well-known for its health benefits and has been used medicinally throughout history.
Ancient Egyptians used nettle to treat arthritis and back pain. Roman soldiers rubbed nettle on their skin to stay warm on battlefields.
As many have experienced, nettle leaves have tiny “hairs” or “spikes” that sting and cause irritating, itchy bumps.
However, when properly processed, nettle is a safe herb to use, and studies have found numerous health benefits.
This article aims to summarize the benefits of our prickly friend, the nettle.
Here are 5 scientifically backed health benefits of nettle:
Nettle is Rich in Vitamins Nettle contains numerous health-promoting vitamins, minerals, and nutrients.
- Vitamins: A, C, K, and B
- Minerals: Calcium, potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, and iron
- Fats: Linoleic acid, linolenic acid, stearic acid, and oleic acid
- All essential amino acids
- Polyphenols: Quercetin, caffeic acid, coumarins, and other flavonoids
- Pigments: Beta-carotene, lutein, and other carotenoids
Many of these nutrients act as antioxidants, protecting cells from damage caused by free radicals, which are linked to aging, cancer, and other diseases (1).
In fact, even the popular superfood kale doesn’t match the nutritional density found in nettle leaves.
Remember to handle nettle by crushing, drying, or freezing it first to avoid the unpleasant stings!
Nettle Has Anti-inflammatory Properties
Nettle extracts have demonstrated powerful anti-inflammatory effects (1).
They are non-cytotoxic (not toxic to cells) and may even be more effective for inflammatory diseases than traditional tinctures.
Here’s a video from Dr. Eric Berg explaining more about nettle’s anti-inflammatory properties:
Nettle May Lower High Blood Pressure
Some studies, mostly animal-based, suggest nettle could lower blood pressure.
Further research is needed to determine if the same effects apply to humans.
Nettle has also been used as a diuretic to treat high blood pressure, causing the body to expel more water through urine, thus reducing fluid volume in arteries and veins.
This study was conducted on rats (1).
Nettle Promotes Liver Health
Nettle’s antioxidant properties may protect your liver from damage caused by toxins, heavy metals, and inflammation.
It may also help prevent urinary tract infections and kidney stone formation (1).
Nettle May Aid in Diabetes Management
Some evidence suggests nettle might aid diabetes management (1).
Two studies have shown that nettle supplements could help individuals with type 2 diabetes better control their blood sugar levels.
However, both studies concluded that more research is needed to confirm nettle’s effectiveness as an adjunctive therapy in diabetes management.
Anyone interested in using nettle for diabetes should consult their doctor first and regularly monitor their blood sugar levels!
How to Use Nettle
Nettle is very easy to incorporate into your daily diet.
It is available in many health food stores, but the easiest way is to harvest it yourself outdoors (remember to wear gloves!).
Dried leaves and flowers make a delicious herbal tea, or you can add cooked nettle leaves, stems, and roots to soups, stews, and smoothies.
Avoid eating fresh leaves as they can cause stinging!
Preparing and Using Nettle Powder
Harvest nettles ideally from clean, natural environments away from car exhaust and pollutants.
Dry harvested nettles indoors at room temperature, preferably out of direct sunlight.
When completely dry, remove the stems and grind the leaves into a fine powder using a blender.
Store the nettle powder in an airtight glass jar. It should keep well for about a year when stored in a cool place.
Nettle powder usage is simple: You can use it in cooking, sprinkle it on food as a seasoning, or add a teaspoon to your daily smoothie.
No recommended dosage of nettle consumption is currently established.
Summary of Nettle’s Health Benefits
- Nettle is a nutritional powerhouse (vitamins A, C, K, B + minerals, fats, etc.)
- Nettle has anti-inflammatory properties
- Nettle may lower blood pressure
- Nettle supports liver and organ health
- Nettle may assist in diabetes management
Nettle is a beneficial and widely available medicinal plant, easily found in nature.
Consuming nettle also strengthens the immune system and has an excellent ability to neutralize toxic antigens in the body.
So go ahead, gather and enjoy nettle’s health benefits!
Disclaimer: Yrttitohtori.fi provides general information only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult an expert (e.g., your doctor) before trying herbal medicine for safety!
