Stinging nettle, Urtica dioica
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Stinging nettles are one of my earlier harvests. I grow them in my own organic garden, where they have spread like wildfire.
Stinging nettle, Urtica dioica, is a nutritional powerhouse. It contains flavonoids, tannins, volatile compounds, fatty acids, polysaccharides, isolectins, sterols, terpenes, protein, vitamins, and minerals. It contains good amounts of vitamins A, K, manganese, calcium, and fiber.
The hollow hairs called trichomes that cover the plant contain formic acid, which gives them their uncomfortable punch. Nettle contains acetylcholine, serotonin, and histamine. It creates a histamine reaction that relieves allergies by stabilizing mast cell walls. It is styptic, can help varicose veins, may relax blood vessels, and promote iron absorption. The lectin it contains may stimulate lymphocyte production.
Studies have shown it has antiproliferative, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, analgesic, immunological stimulatory, anti-infectious, hypotensive, anti-ulcer, antidiabetic, antihypertensive, detoxifying, analgesic, and anti-nociceptive properties.
Studies have shown it has antiviral effects against HIV (HIV-1 and HIV-2), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and cytomegalovirus (CMV).
In women’s health it may be helpful for cramps, excessive bleeding, bloating, lactation, and prevention of UTIs.
Suggested dosing: Tincture 2-4 ml 3x day
Possible side effects: Digestive upset, allergic reactions, drowsiness, lowered potassium levels when combined with other diuretics.
Citations for the studies mentioned can be found at Botany Bee Botanicals on the product page.