Stinging Nettle

  Most of us have had the unfortunate experience of inadvertently walking through a stand of stinging nettles (Urtica dioica) only to find our skin raw and irritated. This stinging sensation is caused by fine, hollow hairs on the plant. When these hairs touch a human, or other animal, the tip of the hair falls off, allowing it to function like a hypodermic needle: a mix of several chemicals is then shot into the unfortunate interloper’s exposed skin, including histamine and formic acid. The result is the well-known scathing discomfort of ‘nettle burn’.

But before you decide to burn down that stand of nettle: Stop! What you have here is one of the most nutritious, and medicinally valuable, plants in the herbal cadre.

It has been recognized as a valuable medicinal herb since (at least) the 1^st century, when the Greek physician, Dioscorides, first wrote about it. Among its uses, which he listed, were: as a poultice for septic wounds; the juice, he said, was used to stop nosebleeds; and the greens, mixed with myrrh, were used as a potherb to stimulate menstruation.

In today’s world, the herb is well known for its healing effects for arthritis. Andrew Chavallier, in his Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine, points out that research in Germany found that nettle has strong anti-arthritic properties, making it a preferred remedy for this purpose. It is also popularly used as a cleansing agent, allowing the body to detoxify  (through its strong diuretic properties) and it has been shown through research, that it may assist the body in the detoxification of heavy metals and chemicals.

In addition, it is widely used as a general tonic; Susun Weed, in her book, New Menopausal Years, The Wise Woman Way, swears by nettle infusions, and their ability to build strong healthy bones, heal exhausted adrenal glands, repair kidney function, and nourish the immune system. In addition, the author says that its high level of lipids, positively influence hormonal balance.

It also has strong astringent properties, and as such, it slows or stops bleeding, including heavy menstrual bleeding. In addition, nettles have been shown to be antiallergenic, and it is used to treat hay fever and asthma.

The plant, in general, is an anti-inflammatory, but recent research on the root, has shown it to be an effective treatment for enlarged prostate. The plant root inhibits cell metabolism and growth, and it might also inhibit viral activity.

It is also used as a beauty aid: in Identifying and Harvesting Edible and Medicinal Plants, author, Steve Brill, states that nettles make your hair grow thicker, and shinier, and that it is also good for developing healthy skin, as well as for healing skin problems, such as eczema.

In addition to its many attributes as a medicinal herb, it is highly nutritious. It is a veritable nutrient-powerhouse: it has high levels of protein, vitamins A, C, D and B complex; in addition, it has abundant supplies of minerals: calcium, magnesium, silicon, boron, zinc, and phosphorus; and its generous supply of iron has made it a long-time tonic for anemia. Its benefits can be garnered in many ways: as a fresh potherb  - the stinging hairs are rendered harmless with slight cooking; as a dried herb  - either through your own efforts, or from the local health food store, or an on-line herb supply house (I like http://www.mountainroseherbs.com/ but any reputable company will do.) Or, through the use of pills, ointments, decoctions or infusions - either of your own making (Chavalier’s book is a treasure trove of information on the subject) or by purchasing any of these from the above resources.

Nettle flowers June- September, so it is necessary to harvest in the spring, before the plant flowers. Thomas Elpel, in his book, Botany in a Day, states that the plants build up nitrates, or form calcium carbonate cystoliths as they mature, which could be damaging to the kidneys, so only harvest young pre-flowering plants. Wear gloves when you harvest, and only take the top 1/3 of the plant, so that it easily recovers.

Remember, as when seeking any herbs in the wild: caution first: always use a reliable field guide to positively identify your plant; avoid plants that are near a road or farm where they are likely to have been exposed to sprays or other toxins; and if you buy, always buy organic!

All of the above-mentioned books are great resources for information, and, if you are interested, I encourage you to learn more about this largely un-tapped, rich resource: wild medicinal and edible plants. There was a time, once, when every family had various herbs drying in their barns, for medicinal use. Plain folk were possessed of vast amounts of knowledge, common, and widely dispersed. But with the advent of modern medical science, much of the old wisdom was rejected, or seen as inferior. As such, a great store of knowledge has been lost to the average person. Fortunately, there has been a move toward reclaiming that wisdom, and more and more people are becoming interested in learning what it took our ancestors, thousands of years to learn.

To use as a tonic, follow Susun Weed’s recipe: take ¼ cup dried nettle and place in a clean, heatproof quart jar. Cover the herb with boiling water, and place a tight-fitting lid on the jar. Allow to stand for four hours. Drain, and refrigerate. Infusion will stay fresh for 2-3 days. Take 1 cup per day, hot, or cold, sweetened with honey if desired. Bon Apetite!