Nettle is truly a magical herb that has been used to treat various ailments for centuries. It is so unique in its properties that it belongs to its own plant family, the Urticaceae family. It’s also one of the most underrated herbs out there. Despite being steeped in history and lore, nettle continues to be overlooked by many people today. Even though this herb isn’t as well-known as others, it shouldn’t be underrated any longer!
Nettle has been used since time immemorial due to its health benefits and medicinal properties. But what makes this herb so special? Let’s take a look at some of the amazing health benefits of nettle and its numerous uses.
Nettle: The Magical Herb with Magical Properties
Nettle has many beneficial properties that make it a go-to herb for many ailments. As well as being incredibly nutrient-dense, nettle is also:
Anti-inflammatory – Nettle can help with inflammatory conditions such as arthritis and eczema. It may even be able to slow the progression of rheumatoid arthritis!
Antioxidant – Nettle contains lots of flavonoids, which are antioxidants that help reduce the risk of certain cancers.
Anti-fungal – Nettles are anti-fungal and anti-viral, so they can be used to treat fungal infections such as athlete’s foot, nail fungus, and vaginal yeast infections. They can also be used to treat cold sores and shingles!
Hypoallergenic – This means that people with allergies to grass should be able to consume nettle without suffering any allergic reactions!
Nutritious – Nettle has a high level of iron, protein, and other vitamins and minerals. It’s also high in fiber – the perfect combination for a healthy digestive tract!
Anti-inflammatory – As well as being anti-inflammatory, nettle is also an anti-rheumatic, making it really helpful for arthritis.
Nettle is very rich in vitamins and minerals. It is especially high in iron, calcium, magnesium, and potassium. It also contains chlorophyll, which is thought to have detoxifying properties. Nettle is most commonly taken as a tea, but can also be found in capsules, tinctures, and extracts.
Nettle For Urinary Tract Health
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of the most common infections in humans. Approximately 33% of females will experience a UTI in their lifetime. They are also very common in young children due to their smaller urethra. Due to its high iron content, nettle is used to help treat and prevent UTIs. Iron is necessary for the body to produce white blood cells, which fight infections. Regularly consuming iron-rich foods can help prevent and treat UTIs. In one study, 90% of participants who took iron-rich nettle saw a significant reduction in UTI symptoms within two weeks! So, it is recommended to drink nettle tea daily to treat UTI symptoms.
Nettle For Digestive Health
As mentioned above, nettle is high in fiber and thus great for the digestive system. Nettle can help with constipation, diarrhea, and general digestive health. When consuming nettle, it is important to drink plenty of water to prevent any digestive issues. Nettle is also useful for people who are trying to lose weight. It is recommended to consume nettle as part of a low-calorie diet, as it helps maintain healthy digestive function.
Nettle For Women’s Health
Nettle has many positive health benefits for women. It can help with PMS symptoms such as cramping, water retention, and bloating. It can also help to regulate the menstrual cycle. Nettle can also be used to alleviate menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats.
Nettle For Skin And Hair Health
The vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids in nettle can help to improve skin health. It can be used to treat acne, eczema, and psoriasis. The vitamin C and silica in nettle can help to improve hair health and prevent hair loss. Silica is also helpful for skin elasticity, making nettle useful for preventing wrinkles.
Nettle For Mental Health
Nettle is also helpful for mental health. Many people with mental illnesses, such as depression and anxiety, can be deficient in certain vitamins and minerals. Nettle is high in vitamins and minerals that are helpful for mental health such as B vitamins and magnesium. Nettle can also help with sleep issues such as insomnia, as it is a natural tranquilizer. It is recommended to drink nettle tea one or two hours before bed. It’s also helpful to drink nettle tea when experiencing mood swings, as it is known to be soothing.
Conclusion
Nettle is a safe and natural way to support your health. Whether you want to improve the quality of your hair, urinary tract, or digestion, you should give nettle a chance. It’s cheaper (even free if you tear it yourself in a meadow) and often more effective than dietary supplements.
