Urtica dioica (Urticaceae)

STINGING NETTLE, COMMON NETTLE

The common nettle is used by herbalists to treat skin disease and rheumatism. The sting is inactivated by drying or heating. Homeopaths give U. urens for rheumatism, burns, and rashes.

The Romans used to flail their rheumatic joints with nettles and rub the leaves on their bodies to warm them up in British winters. The sting, which is due to ammonia in special hairs on the leaves, stimulates blood circulation. Drying or heating the leaves inactivates this stinging chemical. Nettle also contains vitamin C and iron, and increases the absorption of the latter. A native of Europe and Asia but naturalized throughout the world, it has heart-shaped leaves with normal and stinging hairs, and flowers throughout summer.

PARTS USED

Whole herb.

ACTIVE INGREDIENTS

Indoles, including histamine and serotonin; formic acid; acetylcholine; vitamins A and C; minerals, including iron, silica, and potassium.

ACTIONS

Prevents haemorrhage; circulatory stimulant; dermatological agent; stimulates milk production; mildly lowers blood sugar levels.

MEDICINAL USE

The juice of nettle is used for skin conditions and rheumatism. Nettle is also given as a tonic in anaemia, for non-insulin-dependent diabetes, and to help lactating mothers maintain their milk supply. A related species, U. urens, is prescribed in homeopathy for rheumatic pains, burns, and nettle rash.

PREPARATIONS

Juice, fresh herb, infusion, tincture, homeopathic remedies.