The nettle has been a companion to humanity for millennia. The Greeks and Romans cultivated vast fields of it, both for its medicinal properties and for its textile fibers. An ancient Roman practice, urtification , consisted of whipping painful joints with nettle branches to relieve arthritis and rheumatism. This method, although unconventional, still has its followers today!
Texts from the 1st century also mention its use in stimulating male virility . Men wishing to increase their vigor were advised to rub their lower abdomen with fresh nettles… An idea worth trying for the more daring!
The benefits of nettle
Nettle is a true natural panacea with numerous medicinal applications. Here are its main benefits:
-
Purifying and diuretic : It promotes the elimination of toxins and is particularly indicated in cases of rheumatism, arthritis, gout, or kidney stones. Its alkalizing action helps restore the body's acid-base balance.
-
Anti-anemic and remineralizing : Thanks to its richness in iron and chlorophyll, it stimulates the production of red blood cells and helps fight anemia and fatigue. Its high levels of calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and silicon make it beneficial for bones, tendons, and joints.
-
Vasoconstrictor and hemostatic : It helps to stop minor bleeding, such as nosebleeds or heavy periods.
-
Digestive : It stimulates digestion and improves the assimilation of nutrients, thanks to the secretin it contains.
-
Hypoglycemic : It helps to regulate blood sugar levels, although it cannot replace medical treatments.
-
Galactogene : It promotes the production of breast milk and can be consumed as an infusion or as compresses on the breast.
-
Soothing for the skin : It is beneficial against eczema, acne and skin irritations, whether as an infusion or a lotion.
-
Prevention of seasonal allergies : Nettle is also known for its anti-allergic properties. The formic acid contained in its stinging hairs helps reduce inflammation and histamine reactions, thus relieving allergy and arthritis symptoms.
The different parts of the nettle and their specific uses
Three main parts of the nettle are used, each with unique properties to treat different health problems:
- Nettle leaves : Rich in iron and silica, they are particularly recommended for fractures, osteoporosis, tendonitis, and sprains, thanks to their remineralizing properties. They also help combat anemia and fatigue and are especially beneficial for women with heavy periods. Furthermore, they have purifying properties that make them an effective remedy for skin conditions such as acne, psoriasis, and eczema. Their diuretic action helps prevent and treat kidney stones, as well as rheumatism and arthritis. Finally, nettle leaves can be used externally to strengthen hair, preventing hair loss and restoring its vitality.
- Nettle roots : They are used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a common problem in men over 50. They offer relief from symptoms such as frequent urges to urinate at night.
- Nettle seeds : Used to treat enuresis, or "bedwetting" in children, they are often administered in the form of small cakes.
Instructions for use
Nettle can be consumed in various ways:
- Raw or cooked : In salads, omelets, soups, or simply cooked like a green vegetable. It makes an excellent substitute for spinach.
- Fresh juice : Crush or blend the leaves to obtain a nutrient-rich juice. Drink half a glass to a glass in the morning and at midday.
- Infusion : Infuse 50g of leaves per liter of water for fifteen minutes. Drink 3 to 4 cups per day.
- Lotion and compresses : Apply the juice to the skin or soak compresses to treat skin conditions.
Recipe ideas using nettles: tasty and beneficial
Discover our delicious nettle-based recipes to fully enjoy its health and wellness benefits:
- Gourmet green smoothie with nettle : A fresh and revitalizing blend to boost your energy, support your skin and promote detox.
- Three detox nettle teas : Three simple recipes to purify your body, improve your digestion and revitalize your system.
- Nettle pesto : A tasty alternative to classic pesto, perfect to accompany your dishes while adding the benefits of nettle to your diet.
Contraindications
Although nettle is generally beneficial, certain precautions should be taken:
- Pregnancy : Avoid in large quantities due to its potentially abortive effect.
- Kidney failure : To be avoided in case of kidney failure or edema related to a heart condition.
- Drug interactions : Nettle may interact with antidiabetics, antihypertensives, central nervous system depressants, analgesics and coumadine.
Nettle is an exceptional plant that deserves far more attention than it receives! Remineralizing, detoxifying, and revitalizing, it's a precious ally for our health. Whether as an herbal tea, in cooking, or applied topically, it's brimming with beneficial properties. So, let's give nettle the place it deserves in our daily lives!
Sources:
- Encyclopedia of Life and Health, Guide to Medicinal Plants , Dr. G. Pamplona-Roger
- My Herbalism Bible , Michel Pierre, Caroline Gayet, Leduc
- The Apprentice Herbalist's Handbook , Abby Artemisia, Eyrolles Publishing
- Medicinal Herbs. A Beginner's Guide , Rosemary Gladstar's
- Secrets of a Herbalist: 250 Medicinal Plants , by Marie-Antoinette Mulot, published by Éditions du Dauphin
- The Ultimate Guide to Herbalism , Loic Ternisien, Albin Michel Recipes
Under no circumstances should the information and advice offered on the MerveilleNature website be considered a substitute for a consultation or diagnosis made by a doctor or healthcare professional, who are the only ones able to properly assess your state of health.
