Medicinal Benefits of Nettle

There are numerous health benefits of nettle which makes it a plant for the blood. Nettle defends us and also defends itself. Many people regard it as a weed not knowing the virtues the plant holds.

It is also regarded as herb of blind because it has peculiar hairs that are noticed even by the blind.

Nettle plant is a vivacious plant belonging to the Urtcaceae family and grows from 0.5 – 1.5 meters in height. The stem and the leaves are covered by stinging hairs. It has green-colored flowers which are somewhat small.

In essence, the whole part of the plant is used for medicinal purposes, the leaves particular.

Properties of Nettle plant

Nettle hairs contain histamine which is about 1% and also acetylcholine about (0.2 – 1%). Both acetylcholine and histamine are produced by our body and they are quite active on the digestive and circulatory systems as transmitters of the nervous pulses of the nervous system (autonomic).

It is said that 10 milligrams of the above mentioned substances are enough to provoke a reaction on the skin.

Nettle leaves contain chlorophyll in abundance which has the same chemical composition with hemoglobin. They are also in mineral salts, phosphorus, iron, calcium, magnesium and silicon. This compositions as regards to health benefits of nettle make them depurative and quite diuretic.

They also hold vitamins A, C and K, tannin, formic acid and various substances.

The compounds of the above mentioned substances facilitate the health benefits of nettle which is why nettle is seen as one of the plants having various medicinal applications.

Indications regarding Health Benefits of Nettle

The following are some of the medicinal applications of nettle

1. Depurative, alkalinization and Diuretic
2. Vasoconstrictor
3. Astringent
4. Anti-anemic
5. Digestive effects
6. Hypoglycemic
7. Emollient
8. Galactogene

Depurative, alkalization and diuretic

Nettle fresh juice and infusion is recommended in cases of gout, rheumatic afflictions, arthritis, urinary sand, kidney stones and in other conditions where depurative and diuretic actions or effect is needed.

Another one among the health benefits of nettle is that it is capable of alkalinizing the blood thereby easing the metabolic acid waste expulsion linked to the above mentioned afflictions. Urtications on the affected joints can be attended to by the use of the application of its internal use.

Vasoconstrictor

On health benefits of nettle, it helps stop hemorrhage and also contracts blood vessels and this is why it is recommended for nasal and uterine hemorrhage. For women with excessive menstruation.

Astringent

Reports have it that nettle have successful been used to calm diarrhea especially the one caused by cholera. And it also useful in all cases of diarrhea.

Anti-anemic

In cases of anemia, nettle is used especially the ones caused by lack of blood or lack of iron. Due to the presence of chlorophyll and iron contained in nettle, they help stimulate red blood cells production.

Among the health benefits of nettle is that it suitable for malnutrition, convalescence. In cases of exhaustion, its recovering and invigorating effects are quite useful.

Digestive

In cases of digestive disorders caused by insufficient digestive organs, it renders nice results. This is because nettle holds some significant amounts of secretin which is a hormone produced by certain glands of the intestine. They also aids in stimulating pancreatic juice secretion and the mobility of the gall bladder and the stomach.

Therefore, fostering assimilation of food and easing digestion are some health benefits of nettle. According to ndtv.com, it is recommended for those who have water retention problems

Hypoglycemic

The leaves of nettle help decrease sugar level in the blood. This fact has been checked out in various patients but it cannot be used to substitute insulin. It also allows decrease in anti-diabetic medications (medicine dosage)

Emollient

Nettle has soothing effects, in cases of chronic skin afflictions, it is highly recommended. Such cases include eczema, acne, eruptions etc. It is also recommended in treating hair loss. Nettle also promotes skin regeneration and makes it look more beautiful.

Galactogene

It is recommended while breastfeeding because the causes increase in milk secretion of lactating mothers (breastfeeding women).

Urtcations

In this process, fresh bunch of nettle are gathered and gently hit the skin precisely at the joint affected by the rheumatic disorder or inflammation. This treatment causes revulsion which calls the blood to the skin and then decongesting the internal tissues.

 

Preparation of Nettle and Use

The stinging effect of nettle disappears after 12 hours of gathering it. Therefore, people who are afraid of this plant should remain calm.

Internal Use

1. Infusion with about 50 grams of nettle per liter of water. Allow steeping for about 15 minutes. On a daily, three or four cups should be taken.
2. Fresh juice: Taking the juice is the best way to unleash the health benefits of nettle especially its depurative and diuretic properties. This can be obtained by pressing the leaves or using blender. In the morning, drink one glass and another one in the afternoon.

For external use

1. Compresses, having soaked in the juice, should be applied on the affected area of the skin. You can change them four times a day.
2. Lotion: the juice can be applied on the affected area of the skin.
3. Nose plugging: This is done by plugging a gauze soaked in the nettle juice into the nostrils.

 Caution

Abnormal hemorrhages must be checked out by a doctor

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