The nettle is a plant known to be a “weed that stings”, but once again it is shown that there is no weed but rather bad grass , as the song says, since nettle has extraordinary medicinal properties.
First of all we must indicate that in the case of nettle it is especially advisable to consume it organically grown, because wild nettle usually grows in dirty areas next to roads or paths or humid areas where garbage or livestock remains accumulates, which makes wild nettle contains nitrates that are harmful to our health.
The hairs on its leaves contain histamine and formic acid, so that in contact with the skin it causes irritation and itching.
Nettle is diuretic and purifyingbecause it protects and enhances liver function and stimulates biliary and pancreatic secretion. It is recommended to eliminate retained fluids, as a treatment for genito-urinary diseases (urine infection, prostatic hypertrophy …), fight gout, or fight diabetes.
It has the ability to help the body eliminate excess water, toxins and waste, making it effective in the treatment of kidney stones or osteoarthritis (derived from diabetes or excess uric acid).
It is also well known among lactating women, since nettle has a remarkable galactogogue property, that is, it stimulates the secretion of prolactin that increases the production of breast milk.
Nettle is also used in the cosmetic industry, especially for hair care, as it is ideal for treating hair problems such as dandruff or excess sebumthat can cause hair loss in addition to itching and other discomfort. For these cases, it is convenient to wash the hair with an infusion of nettle, to which you can add chamomile or rosemary.
Nettle is very nutritious and can be consumed fresh, cooked like any other vegetable, but for the treatment of ailments it is advisable to make infusions and drink at least 3 glasses a day to appreciate its effectiveness.
