What is nettle herb?
Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica), the nettle herb is a perennial herbaceous flowering plant that is native to certain parts of the planet such as Northern Africa, Europe, Western Northern Africa as well as Asia. It is also commonly referred to as the stinging nettle from the fact that it gives a stinging sensation when humans or animals get into contact with it. The plant has for a long time been used as a source of food, fiber and medicine. As a medicine, the nettle herb is often sold in its dry state. Most of the dry powdered nettle herbs are made from the leaves of the plant. Nettle is basically made up of lectins as well as complex sugars. Prostaglandins are some other contents of nettle. They are popular for their ability to aid in the resistance to irritation and redness.
The leaves of the nettle plant are high in calcium, protein, iron, phosphorous, magnesium as well as beta –carotene. The plant is also pretty rich in vitamins A, C, D and B complex.
How to use nettle herb
For its various uses, the nettle herb can be used in several ways. One of the ways in which the product can be used is by adding it to vegetable smoothies or similar foodstuffs. The amount of the nettle herb will often be determined by several factors some of which include the age of the user, the health and several other factors. There is yet to be scientific determination of the appropriate dosage of the nettle herb. However, one tablespoon of the herb twice to three times a day can often do the trick.
The herb can also be to prepare the nettle herb tea. Preparing the tea is easy and the main ingredients that you need are the nettle, water and optional sugar. The mixture of water and the product are then boiled. The measurement for both the ingredients will often be determined by the concentration that you need. For a stronger tea, you need to steep it longer while to make it weaker, you only need to add more water. Once the water is near boiling, the heat should be reduced and the drink simmered for a couple of minutes.
Health benefits of nettle herb
The nettle herb has got quite a lot of health benefits. The product aids in boosting the immunity of a user by stimulating the lymph system. The herb has also been studied to relieve the symptoms of arthritis. The herb also aids in the promotion of release of uric acid from the joint of an individual. The adrenals are also supported by the herb. Nettle has also been studied to minimize the symptoms of diabetes mellitus.
The herb also has got some rather essential uses in reproduction. Besides boosting the production of milk lactating mothers, it also helps in strengthening the fetus during pregnancy. It remedies menopausal symptoms and relieves menstrual bloating and cramps. It is a healthy supplement for the health of the pancreas, thyroid and spleen and as such supports the endocrine system.
Nettle relieves diarrhea, asthma, common cold and also helps in stopping bleeding. Some other benefits of the herb are that it reduces nausea, relieves osteoarthritis, minimizes incidences of prostate cancer, reduces gingivitis and has also been observed to aid in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease.
NOTE: We highly recommend that before using any herbal medications you should consult your health care provider or medical doctor for professional advice.
Disclaimer: All herbs and spices listed on http://islandherbsandspices.com/ or sold for medical and household use only, again we advice that before using any HERBS for medical purposes, please consult your physician.
