Everything You Need To Know About Stinging Nettle
True to it’s name, this wonderful plant packs quite the punch. It’s impossible to miss the immediate stinging that is felt if you step on it or brush your hand against its serrated leaves.
But - if you can get past the sting, it offers some amazing medicinal and functional benefits!
Cherished by many cultures for thousands of years, the use of urtica diocia, AKA stinging nettle, can be dated all the way back to the bronze age, where it was likely used to create textiles for various purposes. As a textile, stinging nettle offers many applications including fishing line, cordage and even sail cloth!
Did you know?
Stinging nettle was a valuable resource during World War 2, again as a versatile textile but also as a dietary supplement, camouflage dye, and perhaps most interestingly - to extract chlorophyll for asthma medication.
The use of this incredible plant has dwindled since the end of the war, as the development of various chemical alternatives and manufacturing processes created during the war made it less profitable to use natural plant medicine. Nonetheless, there are still herbalists around the world who are using this precious plant to treat a variety of illnesses.
How to identify stinging nettle?
There are a few different species of stinging nettle, but the type that I have seen most in Alberta is urtica dioica. It is easily identified by its long, serrated oval leaves which grow on opposite sides of its hollow stem. Leaves can be 2-4” long, while the plants overall height can reach up to 5’ in some areas. Later in spring, clusters of small greenish/white flowers will begin to appear along the stem in drooping clusters. The leaves and stems are covered in tiny hairs which produce the notable sting.
Stinging Nettle can be found growing in a wide range of habitats, but is particularly plentiful near the outside of deciduous forests, meadows, woodlands and disturbed areas. It is also a common weed in gardens, as it prefers rich, wet soil.
I recommend harvesting stinging nettle with gloves and long sleeves, but the sting from the plant is completely harmless and can even help to promote blood circulation in the skin.
Please Note - Whether you find stinging nettle in your yard or out in the wild, please harvest your plant medicine with care and intention. I like to say a prayer and offer my gratitude to the earth before harvesting anything. Also please make sure to harvest sustainably. Take no more than 10% of what you see in an area, and preferably less than 5%.
So, what exactly does Stinging Nettle help with?
Rhinitis Allergies and Hay Fever
One of the most common uses for stinging nettle is its ability to help alleviate the symptoms of various allergies and hay fever. A strong antihistamine and anti-inflammatory, it can help reduce itching, sneezing, running noses and watery eyes. For this reason it is an excellent herb to have in your home apothecary. I recommend using it as a tincture, which can be found in my shop, but stinging nettle tea can be effective as well.
To further research how nettle can help with rhinitis allergies, here is a journal from Pub Med that details how nettle interferes to relieve allergy symptoms: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19140159/
Prostate Health
Perhaps one of the most notable benefits of stinging nettle is its ability to help treat prostate disorders. In several studies, stinging nettle root has been shown to be effective in helping to manage symptoms of (and in some cases, even treat or prevent), BPH and other prostate disorders.
Stinging nettle root helps to optimize the endocrine system, stabilizing the production and distribution of both estrogen and testosterone which is essential for a healthy prostate.
For more detailed information on the herbal actions that are responsible for the treatment of many prostate disorders and symptoms, here are a couple articles from the National Library of Medicine:
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3589769/
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11242153/
Reduce Inflammation
Some studies suggest that stinging nettle extracts can help to aid inflammatory conditions like arthritis, gout, chronic myalgia and joint pain. Topical applications may also help to reduce arthritic pain.
Current studies note that a lipophilic extraction may deliver more potent anti-inflammatory properties, while a standard ethanol extract (like the one currently available at Wild Haven Apothecary) might only be able to offer moderate to weak anti-inflammatory effects, so if you are choosing to use nettle specifically to address an inflammatory issue, make sure to look for a lipophilic extraction.
Blood Sugar Control
There are also some studies that show that nettle can be beneficial in controlling blood sugar levels. Formic acid and various flavonoids - rich bioactive components that are found in nettle - can decrease cholesterol and increase insulin production, which can help to regulate blood sugar levels. However, it is important to continue working with your healthcare practitioner if you plan to use nettle to help manage any metabolic issues.
Here is an article from the National Library of Medicine that shares more detailed information about nettles effect on the metabolic system:
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9282742/
Rich Source of Vitamins and Nutrients
As one of the most nutritionally dense plants on earth, stinging nettle has long been prized for its potent dose of many essential nutrients including vitamins A, C, D, E, K, as well as minerals like magnesium, iron, calcium and potassium. The polyphenols that are found in nettle also protect the body against free radicals thanks to their high antioxidant levels.
Magical Properties of Stinging Nettle
In addition to its amazing healing powers, stinging nettle also offers some pretty cool magical uses. Many cultures have made use of this plant and one of the most notable magical properties is its ability to remove curses and to ward off evil spirits. Carrying nettle in a sachet can help protect you from negative energies and remove fears. It is said that nettle is a masculine plant, of the planet Mars and the element of Fire.
What is the best way to use Stinging Nettle?
The young spring leaves can be used as you would kale, spinach, or any other leafy green. They make a lovely addition to soups, sautés, eggs, and just about anything else you could think of!
One of my favourite ways to make use of these nutritious plant is to make nettle protein balls! The flowers and leaves are a great source of plant protein, and they offer an earthy flavour to these tasty snacks. I'll be sharing the recipe for these protein balls on my blog soon!
Stinging nettle tea is also a great way to enjoy the many benefits that the plant offers us. Simply pour boiling water or 1-3 teaspoons of dried nettle leaves, steep for 5-10 minutes, and add in honey or milk if desired. Herbal teas are a wonderful way to connect to the spirit of the plant and to harness its healing energy.
To treat more chronic issues and to get a more potent dose of the medicinal properties of nettle, many choose to use stinging nettle tincture, which can be found in our shop.
Are there any side effects or potential harmful effects of stinging nettle?
Besides the stinging, nettle is considered relatively harmless and safe for humans to consume. However, it is important to consult your healthcare practitioner before using stinging nettle, especially if you are taking any medications, as nettle could potentially interfere with prescription medications.
Also, women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid stinging nettle, as there is not enough evidence to support its safety.
Have you ever spotted this lovely plant growing around you? Let me know if you have incorporated nettle into any of your practices! I always love hearing about other people’s experiences with plants.
And if you have any questions about nettle, feel free to reach out!
Next Wednesday, we will do a deep dive into plantains! Be sure to hit subscribe so you don’t miss any of our Weed Wednesday blog posts!
Much love to all <3
Disclaimer - The above listed information is not intended to be used as medical advice. It is for informational purposes only. I do not claim that any of the plants I may discuss or write about will cure, treat, diagnose or prevent any disease or illness. As always, I encourage you to do your own research and to consult with your healthcare practitioner before working with or taking ANY herbal remedies. Herbal medicine is powerful and is not to be taken lightly.