Nettle - Devils Leaf

Nettle - Devils Leaf

Urtica dioica
Urticaceae
Common names: Nettle , also known as Stinging Nettle, Common Nettle, Devils leaf. 

Net Plant and Greater Nettle, can be found in temperate climates growing as a weed throughout the world. The name Urtica comes from the Latin ”urere” which means “to burn” in reference to the stinging hairs and dioica means: “two dwellings” as male and female flowers grow on different plants. It stands two to three feet tall, bearing dark green serrated leaves with small inconspicuous white flowers with tiny hairs on the leaf and stem. When any skin comes into contact with it, the hairs can inject an irritant causing a stinging and burning sensation. You can cut the sting by instantly rubbing fresh herbs such as rosemary, mint or sage on the affected areas. Nettles have been used as a vegetable and folk remedy for centuries. Once the leaf has been steamed, the hairs are no longer harmful. It is most nourishing and best to pick the leaf before it flowers. The leaf can affect a wide range of problems and act as an excellent general detoxifying remedy and whole body tonic. Nettles are a rich source of nutrients,including minerals such as calcium, iron, silica, and other trace minerals.

Health Benefits
1. Also present are beta carotene, and vitamin C, as well as chlorophyll,histamine, acetylcholine, and betaine.

2. Due to its rich nutritional profile, it has traditionally been used to help with anemia, exhaustion, and recuperating from long illness.

3. Current research indicates that polysaccharides (complex sugars) and lectins (large protein sugar molecules)  are probably the most active constituents. The leaf has been shown to be antiinflammatory by preventing the body from making inflammatory chemicals   known as prostaglandins.

4. It also is a potent remedy for allergy symptoms from pollen and hayfever because of its high histamine content and anti-inflammatory properties.

5. Nettles are also used as a diuretic and as a hair, skin and nail tonic Nettle Root is a promising treatment in benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). BPH is a noncancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that constricts the urethra.

6. It is thought that the herb may limit the amount of testosterone, the male sex hormone, and estrogen, the female sex hormone, circulating in the blood, or it may inhibit an enzyme, aromatase, that leads to the formation of testosterone. The German health authorities have concluded that nettle root extract is an effective treatment for urinary problems caused by BPH, but only when the prostate is slightly to moderately enlarged.

7. For females it is said to help with excessive menstrual flow.


8. Highly nutritious, the prickly plant is often used as a spring tonic. It's a natural cleansethat removes metabolic wastes and is both gentle and stimulating on the lymph system, promoting easy excretion through the kidneys. All parts of the nettle plant are used; and it's available in a wide variety of medicines ranging from dried leaf, to ointments, tinctures, homeopathic remedies and herbal extracts.

9. Nettle leaves are used to treat painful symptoms of arthritis, gout, rheumatism, and soft tissue conditions such as fibromyalgia and tendonitis.

10. Nettle is high in iron making it excellent for combating anemia and fatigue.

11. Stinging nettle leaves have been used both as an herbal treatment and a homeopathic remedy for the relief of nettle allergies such as asthma, hay fever, hives and other allergic dermatitis.

12. Stinging nettles are helpful for bladder and urinary tract function in both sexes. The tea acts as a natural diuretic, increases urination and helps break down kidney stones. Nettles acts as a pelvic decongestant and reduces an enlarged prostate.

13. Nettle tea relieves eczema and acne, removes warts when applied topically, and relieves itching from nettle rash. It has a stimulating effect on the scalp when used as a hair rinse and helps regenerate both hair growth and restore original color. It works to relieve dandruff and as a conditioner for the scalp.

14. More nettle cures

• Reduces gingivitis and prevents plaque as a mouth rinse.
• Relieves chest congestion and coughing, bronchitis, COPD and TB.
• Is helpful in the treatment of Alzheimers.
• Relieves neurological disorders such as MS, ALS and sciatica.
• Remedies made from the plant's roots prevent night time urination in children.
• Destroys intestinal worms and parasites.
• Supports the endocrine system including the thyroid, spleen and pancreas.

Warning
Because stinging nettles can produce side effects and interact with other drugs and natural treatments, consult your healthcare practitioner before using it.