Balancing & Inflammation Supportive Nettle Root
Other Names:
Ingredients: Nettle Root (Urtica dioica)
American stinging nettle, Stinging Nettle, Ball Nettle, Bull Nettle, Flame Nettle, Hemp Nettle, False Nettle, Ouch
Description :
It is a shrubby, perennial plant, with a fibrous and whitish root. Its stems are erect and square and can measure between 24-36 inches tall, its leaves are elongated and with serrated edges, and its root resists the winter cold. Its yellowish flowers appear between May and July. Its stems and leaves are covered with hollow hairs, filled with a stinging liquid that contains organic acids (histamine and acetylcholine). These hairs are very brittle and, when broken, inject the liquid into the skin, inducing a burning and itching sensation. The small green flowers mature into tiny green seeds. The stingers can be cooked or crushed out of the leaves. Cooked nettle leaves are nutritious and akin to spinach. Nettle leaf has been used since ancient times. Internally, it was thought of as a mild diuretic while externally, the leaf was used in poultices, lotions, and salves to treat sore muscles and joints. Nettle leaves can also be cooked and eaten as food.
History and Folklore:
Nettle leaf has been used since ancient times as a diuretic and treatment for sore muscles. Together with the stems, the leaves are used in the textiles industry and make a strong fabric.
Cultivation and Harvest:
Wear gloves! In the spring, cut the stem at one of its nodes and allow the stem and leaves to fall into a burlap sack. Do this near the tops of the plant and leave enough stems and leaves to allow the plant to recover from the harvest. Allow the cut leaves to wilt on the stem for a couple of days. This will reduce the stinginess of the leaves and allow for easy separation from the stems by hand. Careful harvesting ensures that the plant can recover during the same growing season.
Precautions:
Avoid during pregnancy or while nursing.
Traditional Herbal Actions:
Diuretic, Anti-inflamatory, Nutritive
Benefits of Nettle Root
Nettle root is a popular preparation that is made by steeping dried nettle root in hot water, or for a stronger tea, add 1 teaspoon per cup of water and bring to the boil. Simmer for 10-15 mins. Strain, let cool and enjoy.
This decoction is highly nutritious and offers a range of health benefits.
One of the main benefits of nettle infusion is that it is a natural source of vitamins and minerals. It contains vitamins A, C, and K, calcium, magnesium, iron, and potassium, which are all essential for overall health and wellbeing.
Nettle is also known for its diuretic properties, which means it can help to flush out excess fluids from the body. This can be especially beneficial for people with edema or high blood pressure.
In addition to its diuretic properties, nettle infusion is also a natural anti-inflammatory. It contains compounds that can help to reduce inflammation in the body, which can be helpful for people with conditions such as arthritis, allergies, and asthma.
Moreover, nettle has antihistamine effects, which can help to alleviate symptoms of allergies such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes.
Another benefit of nettle is that it is a natural source of antioxidants. Antioxidants are important for overall health, as they help to protect the body against damage from free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can cause damage to cells and DNA, which can lead to chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease.
Lastly, nettle has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for hair loss. It is believed that nettle can help to stimulate hair growth and improve the overall health of the hair and scalp.
In conclusion, herbal infusion of nettle is a highly nutritious preparation that offers a range of health benefits. It is a natural source of vitamins and minerals, a diuretic, anti-inflammatory, antihistamine, and source of antioxidants. Incorporating nettle infusion into your diet may provide a range of health benefits.
Note: It is important to use caution when handling dried nettle leaves, as they can cause skin irritation. Wearing gloves can help to prevent this. Additionally, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating nettle infusion into your diet, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medication.
None of these items or statements are approved by FDA. Consult your physician before taking any supplement. Do not take herbs or tinctures during pregnancy without consulting your healthcare provider. This product is not intended to diagnose or treat any disease. All information here is for entertainment and educational purposes only.
*This statement has not been verified by the FDA and is only referenced here as a fun fact and/or for historical commentary, is not to be used as medical advice in any way. Consult your doctor before ingesting any herbal product.
