Studies suggest that it may reduce inflammation, hay fever symptoms, blood pressure and blood sugar levels — among other benefits. While fresh stinging nettle may cause irritation, cooked, dried or freeze-dried stinging nettle is generally safe to consume.
Are stings from nettles good for you?
Stinging nettle has been used for hundreds of years to treat painful muscles and joints, eczema, arthritis, gout, and anemia. Today, many people use it to treat urinary problems during the early stages of an enlarged prostate (called benign prostatic hyperplasia or BPH).
Do nettle stings boost immune system?
The good news is that nettle has been shown to increase both red and white blood cell counts, which helps to keep the blood, body and immune system functioning well. In one study using rats, nettle was found to be an immune response modulator, stimulating the proliferation of T lymphocytes in vitro.
What is the purpose of nettles sting?
The nettle’s sting is an adaptation to provide protection from predators. The sting causes any predator that may eat the plant or uproot it to stay clear.
How long do nettle stings last?
This acid can redden the skin and cause a non-spreading rash that can last up to 24 hours. Remedies for this sting include a plant that often grows next to it called jewelweed.
Who should not take nettle?
Interactions. Pregnant people should not take nettle or drink nettle tea. Due to a lack of research, children under the age of 12 years should also avoid nettle. It is important that people with existing conditions and those who take certain medications speak with a healthcare professional before trying nettle.
Is stinging nettle good for kidneys?
Cautions. Avoid nettles if you have severe kidney disease, are on dialysis, or have fluid retention due to congestive heart failure. Nettles may interfere with blood pressure medication. Do not eat the raw leaves.
What should be done after exposure to stinging nettle?
Avoid hot temperatures and scratching, as these can further irritate the area. You can apply cool compresses for relief. You can also try aloe vera and a paste made from baking soda and water. Anything that you put on the skin should be dabbed, not rubbed.
How do nettles help allergies?
Allergies:Stinging nettle leaf may be useful in reducing the symptoms of hay fever by acting as an anti-inflammatory. Some research has linked treatment with stinging nettle leaf to relief of symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes.
Is Aloe Vera good for nettle stings?
Bathing in an anti-itch solution: Oatmeal and baking soda baths can soothe skin and reduce irritation. Adding witch hazel to a bath is another effective home remedy. Applying aloe vera: The healing properties of aloe vera may soothe and reduce hives.
What is the difference between stinging nettle and nettle?
Nettle leaf tea is derived from the leaves of the common nettle plant, also known as the stinging nettle. The scientific name for this plant is Urtica dioica. The ‘stinging’ moniker is apt, as handling the plant with exposed skin is known to produce a burning sensation that persists after contact.
Are nettles good for arthritis?
Stinging nettle is an alternative remedy that people use for many reasons, including reducing arthritis pain and treating seasonal allergies.
Does nettle root regrow hair?
There aren’t a lot of quality studies on stinging nettle, or Urtica dioica, for hair growth, but one study showed that taking this herbal extract increased dermal papilla cell growth. These cells are part of the hair follicle and regulate hair growth.
Does nettle increase testosterone?
Ingredients in the MIPS such as stinging nettle leaf are known for increasing the amount of free (active) testosterone by binding the testosterone inhibitor sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) [17].
What do stinging nettles feel like?
A stinging nettle sting can feel like a bee sting: sharp, sudden, and very painful. It’s almost an instinct to look for a bee or stinging ant as the culprit rather than the tall straggly plants along a trail or weeds in a garden.
Does stinging nettle lower BP?
Low blood pressure: Stinging nettle above ground parts might lower blood pressure. In theory, stinging nettle might increase the risk of blood pressure dropping too low in people prone to low blood pressure. If you have low blood pressure, discuss stinging nettle with your healthcare provider before starting it.
Is nettle good for sinuses?
Stinging nettle has been used for centuries as a remedy for allergic rhinitis (and many other ailments). Modern freeze-drying apparently concentrates the compounds that soothe inflamed nasal passages and sinuses.
Is stinging nettle a natural antihistamine?
Nettles. Nettle leaf is a natural antihistamine that naturally blocks histamine production. It can be made in to a tincture or tea, but for allergy relief, capsules made from dried nettle leaves are the most effective option.
Does stinging nettle make you pee?
Stinging nettle contains ingredients that might decrease inflammation and increase urine output.
What acid is in a nettle sting?
Nettle stings contain acid (formic acid) but they also contain histamine and other chemicals. The exact details are still unknown but it is the histamine that causes the initial reaction when you are stung. Dock leaf sap contains a natural antihistamine, which helps to ease the stinging sensation.
Can you eat nettles?
Taste: Once cooked, nettles taste like a mix between spinach and cucumber; fresh and wholesome. They make a great addition to dishes, adding a zing of flavour and a splash of colour. Nettle is great in sauces, risottos and soups. Health: The nettle plant is full of nutrients that are really good for your health.
Elvira Bowen is a food expert who has dedicated her life to understanding the science of cooking. She has worked in some of the world’s most prestigious kitchens, and has published several cookbooks that have become bestsellers. Elvira is known for her creative approach to cuisine, and her passion for teaching others about the culinary arts.