Nettle

The nettle plant is one of many different species of perennial plants that are found in almost all temperate areas of the world. Nettles, especially the stinging nettle have fine hair like structures along the stems that cause a mild to severe reaction in most people when the nettle leaf or nettle is touched. The allergic reaction to nettle that most people have is an almost instantaneous burning sensation followed by itching, redness and swelling. The best treatment for sting nettles is to rub the small hairs off using a piece of leather or a rough cloth. If this is not possible, rubbing a leave from a "dock" plant, often found growing besides nettles is considered a good option. The white substance found in the leaf is said to minimize the pain of the nettles.

The nettle plant is eaten in some areas, prepared similar to any variety of greens by boiling, draining, and the boiling again. In addition the leaves may be dried and used in herbal tea mixtures. Nettle tea is often used for detoxifying in combination with several other herbs. The benefits of nettle tea are reported to include increase in energy levels, decrease in fatigue and overall increase in metabolic functions. The tea may also be a mild diuretic, helping to rid the body of impurities through the detoxification process. Nettle tea recipes usually include rose hips and dandelion leaves, or other herb such as peppermint for flavoring. There are occasionally nettle tea allergic reactions, but they are very mild including upset stomach and nausea.

Stinging nettle cream is used to help decrease inflammation and swelling in patients with arthritis and rheumatism. In some uses of stinging nettle the actual nettles are used directly in contact with the swelling or irritated area, although this is not a common practice.

Nettle tea capsules or nettle extract can be taken to help with anemia, hay fever and kidney functioning, and the product can also be used in shampoos or conditioners to help control dandruff and make hair appear shiny and soft. In some instances stinging nettle warts cure includes rubbing a small amount of the extract on the wart and surrounding skin.