What is it
Nettle (Urtica dioica) is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Urticaceae, present all over the world up to 1,800 meters above sea level. It prefers only partially sunny environments and soils rich in nitrates.
It can reach a height of even more than a meter and a half and each plant bears unisexual flowers.
Leaves and stems are equipped with small stinging hairs capable of injecting, when solicited by contact, different substances. Predominantly histamine, acetylcholine and formic acid.
The rhizome, very branched, develops just below the surface of the soil.
Other species of nettle are also widespread, and in particular the U. urens, or lesser nettle.
Activity
Used since ancient times for its diuretic and anti-rheumatic properties, it is indicated in inflammation of the urinary tract, in the prevention and treatment of kidney stones, and in arterial hypertension.
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It activates digestive functions by acting both on the liver and on gastrointestinal motility. Used topically on the scalp, it prevents or slows down the formation of dandruff and hair loss.
Clinical studies have also shown efficacy in benign prostatic hypertrophy.
Mechanism of action
The leaves are rich in chlorophyll, mineral salts (especially iron, phosphorus, magnesium and calcium, but also magnesium and zinc), vitamins A, C and K, tannins. Among the most important active ingredients there are various phenolic compounds and in particular lignans, but also flavonoids and sterols, which account for the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory action.
Lignan derivatives and sitosterols are responsible for the action against prostatic hypertrophy.
Some lectins contained in it seem to have an immunostimulating action.
What it looks like
Preparations for internal use consist of infusions, capsules or tablets.
Lotions or ointments for external use are used to stimulate the trophism of the scalp and for local applications in case of rheumatism, arthritis, osteoarthritis, gout.
Posology
The best form is the dry extract, the daily dose of which is from 8 to 12 mg per kilogram of body weight, divided into two administrations, preferably between meals.
As an herbal tea you can use 15 grams of dried nettle in half a liter to be kept in infusion of boiling water for 10 minutes.
Effects
Contact with the aerial parts of the plant induces an allergic reaction, which can last up to 12-14 hours after contact.
There are no contraindications worthy of note, although it is advisable to avoid their administration during pregnancy and lactation, especially because it stimulates the motility of the uterine muscles.
Nutritional values
100 grams of nettle contain:
Kcal | 42 |
Proteins | 2.7 g |
Fibres | 6.9 g |
Carbohydrates | 7.49 g |
Calcium | 481 mg |
Potassium | 334 mg |
Iron | 1.6 mg |
Joycelyn Elders is the author and creator of EmpowerEssence, a health and wellness blog. Elders is a respected public health advocate and pediatrician dedicated to promoting general health and well-being.
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