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Stinging Nettle Monograph

Botanical name

Urtica dioica

Common Name

Nettle, common nettle, stinging nettle

Family

Urticaceae

Parts Used

Leaves and stalks, rhizomes, seeds

Native To

Europe, Asia

Harvesting Guidelines

Always wear gloves and protective clothing when harvesting nettle to avoid irritation from its stinging hairs.
Only harvest the top 6 inches of the plant, which are the most tender and nutritious.
Avoid harvesting plants that have started to flower, as they contain higher levels of silica, which can lead to kidney irritation if consumed in large quantities.
Harvesting early in the growing season ensures that the plant’s medicinal and nutritional properties are at their peak, while minimizing the risk of exposure to its stinging properties.

Nettle (Urtica dioica), a plant infamous for its stinging properties, has been used for centuries in various cultural practices, traditional medicine, and even cuisine. Despite its reputation for causing irritation through its tiny, stinging hairs, nettle is a highly versatile herb that offers a wide range of health benefits. From its use in treating joint pain and allergies to its role as a nutritious food source, nettle continues to be a valued herb both historically and in contemporary wellness practices.

For over 2,000 years, nettles have played a significant role in both healing and spiritual traditions across cultures. Among Indigenous tribes and in various cultures, one of the most well-known practices involving nettle is urtication. This involved beating the body with nettle stalks, particularly for the treatment of arthritis. The belief was that the sting could help reduce inflammation and pain through an anti-histamine response triggered by the nettle’s histamine injection into the body.

In addition to its medicinal use, nettle also played a practical role in survival. For instance, warriors and hunters often used nettles to stay alert and focused during long periods of physical exertion, benefiting from the stimulatory effect the stinging hairs induced.

In cultures like the Cherokee, nettle was used for treating respiratory issues such as asthma, bronchitis, and coughs, a tradition that has continued into modern herbalism.

Nettle is a nutritious superfood and a powerful medicinal herb used for a variety of health concerns, including allergies, arthritis, skin conditions, and detoxification.

Nutritional Benefits:Nettle is packed with vitamins and minerals, including iron, magnesium, calcium, and vitamins A, C, D, and K. This makes it a great food for blood health, especially for individuals dealing with anemia or recovering from illness. The plant’s chlorophyll content is known to be a natural detoxifier, which can help cleanse the body after heavy consumption of processed foods or during the spring detox period.
Infusions and Teas:Nettle leaf can be brewed as a nourishing infusion, which is both soothing and energizing. An infusion of 1 ounce of dried nettle leaf in 1 quart of boiling water can be consumed 1–4 times a day to support detoxification, immune function, and overall wellness.
Topical Uses:Nettle has also found use in topical applications. The rubefacient effect of nettle, which stimulates blood flow, makes it useful for muscle aches, joint pain, and stiffness. Nettle creams and ointments

In modern times, nettle has garnered significant attention for its medicinal properties and nutritional benefits. Scientific studies support many of its traditional uses, particularly in the treatment of allergic rhinitis, inflammatory conditions, and joint pain.

Allergy Relief:Clinical research has shown that freeze-dried nettle preparations can significantly reduce symptoms of allergic rhinitis (hay fever). The plant’s anti-inflammatory and antihistamine actions are thought to be the primary reason for its effectiveness in treating allergies. A study found that over half of participants with allergic rhinitis showed improvement after using nettle (Mittman, P., 1990).
Anti-inflammatory and Pain Relief:Nettles have a long history of use for joint pain and arthritis. The application of nettle in urtication, as well as its internal use, is believed to work by stimulating the body’s immune response and reducing inflammation.
Hair and Skin Health:Nettle is also highly regarded for its nourishing effects on the skin, hair, and nails. Nettle leaf infusions are commonly used to promote healthy hair and to support skin vitality. Nettle root is known for its ability to treat hair loss and weak hair, with some studies suggesting it helps stimulate hair growth and improve scalp health.

Adult Dose medical herbalism by David Hoffman

Infusion: 1 ounce dried nettle leaf in 1 quart boiling water 1-4x/day

Actions

Alterative,Antihistamine,Antiinflammatory,Astringent,Diuretic,Galactogogue,Hemostatic,Nutritive,Rubefacient

Energy

Cooling,Drying

Safety : Nettle is generally regarded as safe when used appropriately, though it can cause mild allergic reactions in some individuals. The stinging hairs can lead to temporary skin irritation, but this can be avoided by handling the plant carefully or by drying, wilting, or cooking the nettles before use.

Allergic reactions (in rare cases)
Kidney irritation from consuming flowering nettles (due to high silica content)
Gastrointestinal discomfort when taken in large quantities.

Nettle is considered safe for most people, but as with any herb, it is important to consult a healthcare provider before use, especially if pregnant, nursing, or on medication.

References

(Hahn, J. (2010). Pacific Feast: A Cook’s Guide to West Coast Foraging and Cuisine. Seattle, WA: Skipstone.

LeBaron-Botts, P. (2006). Two Burning Houses: A Natural History of Stinging Nettle.
Mittman, P. (1990). "Randomized, Double-Blind Study of Freeze-Dried Urtica dioica in the Treatment of Allergic Rhinitis." Planta Medica, 56(1), 44–47. DOI: 10.1055/s-2006-960881
Weed, S. (1989). Healing Wise. Ash Tree Publishing.
Hoffman, D. (2003). Medical Herbalism.

Information offered on Achula and on this page is for educational purposes only. Achula makes neither medical claim, nor intends to diagnose or treat medical conditions. Women who are pregnant or nursing, and persons with known medical conditions, should consult their licensed healthcare provider before taking any herbal product. Links to external sites are for informational purposes only. Achula neither endorses them nor is in any way responsible for their content. Readers must do their own research concerning the safety and usage of any herbs or supplements.

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