Nettle

Nettle, also known as "stinging nettle" or "great nettle", is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Urticaceae family. It is distinguished by its serrated green leaves that contain stinging hairs that cause irritation and itching when touched. Despite this, nettle has been used in traditional medicine since ancient times, where it is believed to have anti-inflammatory, antihistamine and diuretic properties. It is also sometimes used in cooking.

Uses:

• Traditional medicine:

• Used to treat arthritis and rheumatism as it is believed to relieve pain and swelling.

• Used to treat seasonal allergies, as it is believed to reduce their symptoms such as sneezing and runny nose.

• Used as a diuretic, which helps treat water retention and reduce swelling.

• Sometimes used to improve prostate health and relieve symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia.

• Applied topically to relieve muscle and joint pain.

• Kitchen:

• Young leaves are used in salads and soups after being blanched or cooked to remove stinging hairs.

• The leaves can be dried and used as herbal tea.