Organic Nettle Leaf (Urtica dioica)

Herbs are Sold By the Ounce, Price is Per Ounce

Nettle Leaf (Urtica dioica)

Family:

Urticaceae

Common Names:

Stinging Nettle, Common Nettle, Burn Nettle

Origin:

Native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa, now naturalized in temperate regions around the world, including North America.

Parts Used:

Leaves, stems, roots, seeds

Habitat:

Nettle thrives in nitrogen-rich soils and is commonly found in forests, along riverbanks, in meadows, and in disturbed areas such as roadsides. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade and grows in USDA zones 3-10.

History and Folklore:

Nettle has been used for thousands of years in traditional medicine, particularly in Europe and Asia. In ancient Greece, nettle was used as a diuretic and laxative, while in medieval Europe, it was believed to ward off evil spirits. Nettle has also been used for centuries to make textiles, thanks to its strong, fibrous stems.

Metaphysical Properties:

Nettle is associated with protection, healing, and courage. It is often used in rituals to remove negative energy, strengthen resolve, and promote physical and spiritual healing.

Botany:

Nettle is a perennial herb that can grow up to 2-4 feet tall. It has heart-shaped, serrated leaves and small, greenish flowers that bloom from spring to fall. The leaves and stems are covered in tiny stinging hairs, which contain histamines and other chemicals that cause a stinging sensation upon contact with the skin.

Growing and Harvesting:

Nettle is easy to grow from seeds or root divisions. It prefers a location with partial shade and moist, fertile soil. The leaves are best harvested in the spring and early summer when they are young and tender, before the plant flowers. Nettle should be handled with care due to its stinging hairs, but cooking or drying the leaves neutralizes the sting.

Constituents:

• Chlorophyll: Provides antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Vitamins: Rich in vitamins A, C, K, and several B vitamins.
• Minerals: High in iron, calcium, magnesium, and potassium.
• Flavonoids: Antioxidants that reduce inflammation and support overall health.
• Histamines and Formic Acid: Contribute to the stinging effect but also have therapeutic properties.

Energetics:

• Temperature: Warming
• Taste: Bitter, Astringent

Medicinal Actions:

• Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammation, particularly in the joints and skin.
• Diuretic: Increases urine production, helping to eliminate toxins and reduce water retention.
• Antioxidant: Protects cells from oxidative stress and supports overall health.
• Nutritive: Provides a rich source of vitamins and minerals, particularly iron and calcium.
• Antihistamine: Helps alleviate allergic reactions, particularly hay fever.
• Astringent: Tightens tissues and helps reduce excessive bleeding.

System Affinities:

• Immune System: Supports immune function and helps alleviate allergy symptoms.
• Respiratory System: Used to treat conditions like hay fever and asthma.
• Musculoskeletal System: Reduces joint pain and inflammation, particularly in conditions like arthritis.
• Urinary System: Supports kidney function and helps treat urinary tract infections (UTIs).
• Circulatory System: Promotes healthy circulation and helps treat anemia due to its high iron content.

Uses:

• Tea: Nettle leaf tea is commonly used to support overall health, boost energy levels, alleviate allergy symptoms, and treat urinary issues.
• Infusion: A strong nettle infusion can be used as a tonic for boosting nutrition, particularly for those with anemia or fatigue.
• Capsules/Tablets: Available as a supplement for systemic use, particularly for joint health, allergies, and general nutrition.
• Tincture: Used to treat a variety of conditions, including allergies, joint pain, and urinary issues.
• Topical Application: Nettle leaf can be applied as a poultice or in creams to reduce inflammation and treat skin conditions like eczema.

Cautions:

• Stinging Hairs: Handle nettle leaves with care, as the stinging hairs can cause irritation. Cooking or drying the leaves neutralizes this effect.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Nettle is generally considered safe, but it’s best to consult a healthcare provider before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
• Kidney Issues: Due to its diuretic effects, those with kidney problems should use nettle cautiously and under medical supervision.

Scientific Studies:

1. A study published in the Journal of Herbal Pharmacotherapy demonstrated nettle's anti-inflammatory effects, particularly in reducing symptoms of arthritis.
2. Research in Phytotherapy Research highlighted the antihistamine properties of nettle, confirming its effectiveness in treating hay fever and other allergic conditions.
3. A study in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology explored nettle's role as a nutritive tonic, particularly for its high mineral content and potential to treat anemia.