Herb Profile: Nettle

Nettle is one of my favorite herbs (though not to pick itself, due to its common name: Stinging Nettle). It is packed with nutrients and is even one of the ingredients in my homemade pregnancy tea that I always drink throughout pregnancy.

Nettle is available in both root and leaf form, and even a powdered version of the leaf (pictured above) which I add to my veggie smoothies.

I’ve found it especially useful for allergies and asthma, but its diuretic and blood pressure reducing abilities have been studied in the medical world. From Mountain Rose Herbs:

Nettle’s purported anti-inflammatory effects have been repeatedly confirmed by modern research over the past ten years. It is particularly effective in treating allergic rhinitis, relieving nearly all the symptoms of itchy, watery eyes, sneezing and runny nose. It also has performed better than the prescription drug furosemide in reducing blood pressure, increasing urine output as a diuretic and increasing salt excretion. It also seems to be effective in reducing pain and producing a sedative effect. It is important to keep in mind that the medicinal effects of the leaf and root of the nettle are markedly different. Nettle root, for instance, shows exceptional efficacy in treating prostate complaints in men. Nettle leaf has some of the same effects, but not to the same extent. The leaf, on the other hand, shows some promise in boosting immune system function and is an effective treatment for many skin conditions. One final use should be noted and that is nettle leaf has been used as a hair and scalp treatment for centuries, and again, those uses are being supported by research as well. Nettle leaf extract seems to promote hair regrowth and thicken hair, as well as reducing dandruff and scalp conditions when used as a rinse.

These same properties make Nettle a remedy for Urinary Track Infections, Kidney Stones and respiratory infections. Though long-term daily use is not recommended, I typically use nettle leaf tea or capsules for acute allergy reactions or urinary track infections.

Nettle leaf is very high in Chlorophyll and Vitamins C and A. It contains trace minerals and is also known as a blood purifier.

 Where to get Nettle

I buy Nettle as a bulk herb from Mountain Rose Herbs because it is cheaper when I order herbs in bulk and I get up to a 30% discount when ordering in bulk. Capsules are also available on Amazon or in most health food stores.

Persons using blood thinners or blood pressure lowering medications should not use nettle leaf without consulting with a doctor. If you have any medical condition, consult with your doctor before using this herb or any herb.

If you’re brave enough to handle the sting, you can also try to harvest it yourself (just make sure you are 100% sure of any herb before eating one you harvest yourself). Here’s a great tutorial on how to find and harvest it.

Ever used Nettle? Did you pick it yourself? Share below!

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