Stinging Nettle is most easily recognized by its straight, rigid stems that may be reddish in color. This plant, which grows as tall as 3 feet, is most often found in mountain meadows and valleys of temperate climates. The leaves are pointed with notches and grow in ladder-like arrangements. Fuzzy strings of very small yellow or pink flowers grow on separate stems close to the main stalk. Short, stiff hairs that secrete irritating chemicals when mature cover the leaves and stems. The leaf tips may be collected safely early in the spring before the irritating bristles develop. They can safely be cooked as a vegetable or added to salads as a good source of beta carotene, calcium, potassium, and vitamins C and K. The entire top part of the plant is cut and dried just after the flowers bloom for use in medicine. Most of the irritating chemicals are removed by drying the plants.

Used for hundreds of years, stinging nettle is used in connection with rheumatism, eczema, arthritis, gout, and anemia. It is now used in connection with kidney stones, urinary tract infections, and urinary problems during the early stages of enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia or BPH).

Dosage

Take 8 to 12g of stinging nettle tea with a lot of liquid, at least 2 liters per day. When taking to treat an enlarged prostate, recommended doses are 4 to 6 g per day. If taking root tincture, use one part Stinging Nettle tincture to ten parts water. Talk with your health care provider before taking nettle root for BPH.

This herb is not recommended for children.

Precautions

Always use as directed. Be careful if you are handling the nettle plant for you may get hives with skin contact. Mild side effects are include gastrointestinal irritation, excess fluid, or decreased urine flow. Do not take if you are pregnant or nursing. Stinging nettle can also change the menstrual cycle. Always check with your health care provider if you have questions or concerns.

[PayPal Button Here]