posted by Robin

Nettle, a wonder herb, has been ingested for hundreds of years, by many cultures from all over the world as an energy tonic.  This herb has incredibly powerful effects on many systems in the human body.

About – Nettle, aka Stinging Nettle, is native to Europe, Africa and Asia. It was brought to North America from England. Today nettle can be found growing throughout the world, as annuals or perennials, depending on the climate. Its coarsely toothed leaf has tiny hairs, which leave a stinging residue that affects human skin.

For hundreds of years, the root and leaves of this plant have been commonly used as a medicinal herb. The ancient Greeks used the plant for a variety of everyday ailments such as arthritis, troublesome coughs, tuberculosis, and as a hair-growth tonic

Nutrition – Nettle has high levels of protein, calcium, phosphorus, iron, magnesium, and also holds high amounts of the vitamins A, C, D, and B complex. The leaves contain histamine, which causes the distinctive burning sensation, as well as sterols, boron and silicon compounds.

It’s also a well-known fact that boiling and drinking the broth or juicing nettles can help improve the appearance of your skin, making it clearer and healthier. Nettle is a potent blood cleanser and will make the eyes brighter and skin shinier. It is also used to increase the strength and length of hair and some herbalists swear by its ability to stimulate hair growth in balding men

The known benefits of nettle are extensive and some of its well-documented benefits include: detoxification of chemicals and heavy metals, helping to reduce water retention, as a diuretic and for urinary problems, as a natural kidney and adrenal-gland tonic, as well as a female tonic, beneficial for both PMS and menopause and as a stimulator for breast milk during lactation. It is a natural testosterone booster which aids in increased vitality in men. It acts as an anti-inflammatory and contains abundant boron and silicon minerals which reduce pain of osteoarthritis, tendinitis, bursitis, rheumatoid arthritis and gout. Its magnesium components can lessen the pain of fibromyalgia. Nettle has anti-hemorrhaging qualities and is anti-asthmatic, beneficial for both bronchial and asthmatic difficulties by helping to clear constricted bronchial and nasal passages. It contains natural antihistamines and is known to give relief from hay fever and allergies.

Caution – Herbs have been used for centuries to strengthen the body and treat disease. However, some herbs can trigger side effects and can interact with other herbs, supplements, or medications and so should be taken with care. If in doubt, consult your health care practitioner.