Grasping the Nettle!

No, please don’t, not literally! The stinging Nettle is a hidden treasure of the hedgerow, garden and wayside. Although not popular among children or keen gardeners due to the familiar sting, this common and memorable wild plant is a treasure trove of nutrients and has some surprising uses as a medicinal herb too.

Known mostly for its uncomfortable sting, the Nettle (Urtica dioica) is in fact very useful for several reasons. As the plant only likes growing on nutrient rich ground, it is full of useful nutrients, including absorbable iron. This is helpful in cases of anaemia and poor absorption of minerals. The leaves (ironically), have a natural antihistamine effect in the body, thus helping with symptoms of hay fever and other allergies. During the hay fever season, take it as a tea; as many as 6 mugs per day. It is a little bland tasting this way, but somewhat effective for relieving symptoms. The tea can easily be drunk when cooled down or mixed with something more aromatic, such as fennel or peppermint. Nettle leaf cream is also a way of administering the antihistamine effect directly on the skin.

Nettle seeds are used as a stimulant for those with waning energy, they are quite a power bank of nutrients and energy rich ingredients. Start off with a small dose and build up slowly. Add them to morning cereal or smoothie.

Nettle extract is also used to neutralise uric acid in the body, which is very useful for those suffering with gout along with other herbs, such as celery and sour cherry.

As mentioned, the tea needs to be taken regularly to be effective in any condition. It is safe for children, if made to taste better, but can be disguised in fruit juice, although the colour resembles pond water. Nettle soup is another old tradition in this country and is very tasty too! Add to a base of onions and potato with seasoning and enjoy!