Stinging Nettle

Have you ever been on a walk in the forest and felt a sharp sting living you bewildered to what insect you might have unknowingly came into contact with?

Chances are, hopefully at least, you met a wonderful plant ally known as Stinging Nettle. This woodland native is covered in tiny hollow barbs that look like hairs but act like needles when exposed to the skin. Believe it or not, this can actually be helpful when used to on areas effected by arthritis as it causes blood to rush to that area, indicated by the red rash. Nothing that some long sleeves and gloves won't block and as an FYI the sting is neutralized by steaming or drying the herb.

One of the most widely known uses for Nettle is it action to relieve allergy symptoms and inflammation. For one it contains biologically active compounds that interfere with prostaglandins and other chemicals that cause inflammation. It has also been shown to reduce the amount of histamine produced by the body with fewer side effects than most commercial anti-histamines.

It is nourishing as tea  which can also be applied externally to sooth aching muscles and promote healing of wounds.

Stinging Nettle