Nettle, often considered a weed, is actually a treasure of herbal medicine with therapeutic properties documented since ancient times. Its ability to detoxicate the body, enhance immune systems, and boost dermatological conditions makes it an invaluable natural resource. Below, we discover its benefits and how to safely blend it into your health routine.
Scientifically Supported Benefits of Nettle:
Bl00d and Kidney Cleanser
- Removes toxins and excess uric acid, ideal for people with gout or hyperuricemia.
- Encourages kidney function by increasing diuresis (urine production).
Ally of the Urinary System
- It combats infections such as cystitis thanks to its antibacterial compounds.
- Prevents kidney stones by avoiding mineral accumulation.
Natural Immune Booster
- Its mixture of vitamin C (6 times more than an orange) and iron boosts the production of white and red blood cells.
Solution for Dermatological Problems
- Reduces inflammation in eczema and psoriasis because of its quercetin content.
- Fresh nettle juice applied to the scalp stops hair loss.
Fights Iron Deficiency Anemia
- Its highly bioavailable iron is best absorbed when consumed with vitamin C (example: lemon juice).
Practical Recipes and their Indications
1. Purifying Infusion
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon of dried nettle leaves.
- 250 ml of water.
- Juice of ½ lemon (optional, to improve iron absorption).
Preparation:
- Heat the water and add the nettle.
- Let it soak for 10 minutes. Strain and add lemon.
- Dosage: 2 cups/day (morning and evening) for 3 weeks. Contraindicated during pregnancy.
2. Tincture for Urinary Tract Infections
Ingredients:
- 100 g of fresh nettle root.
- 500 ml of 70° alcohol.
Preparation:
- Macerate the root in alcohol for 15 days in a dark jar.
- Filter and store in a dropper.
- Use: 20 drops in water, 3 times a day for 10 days.
3. Revitalizing Hair Mask
Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons of crushed fresh nettle.
- 2 tablespoons of coconut oil.
Application:
- Blend the ingredients and apply to the scalp.
- Leave on for 30 minutes and wash. *Repeat twice a week.*
Precautionary Key
⚠️ Avoid in:
- Pregnant women (may stimulate uterine contractions).
- People with severe kidney failure.
- Patients taking diuretics or anticoagulants.
✅Recommendations:
- Wear gloves when harvesting fresh to avoid irritation.
- Prefer organically grown nettle to avoid pesticides.
- Historical Fact: Roman soldiers rubbed nettle on sore areas to generate heat and relieve arthritis (a technique called “urtication”).
Conclusion:
Nettle is proof that “wild” plants can be more powerful than many synthetic drugs. By blending it into infusions, tinctures, or topical treatments, we not only save money, but also access a 100% biocompatible medicine.
