Botanical Identity and Growth Cycle
Urtica dioica, commonly known as stinging nettle, begins to grow abundantly in the spring. Recognised by the British Herbal Medicine Association as an immune modulator for allergic reactions, an anti-inflammatory for muscle and joint aches and pains. The herb is readily identified and known for its stinging hairs called trichomes.
Nutritional Profile of Young Plants
In April, Nettle displays the highest concentration of soluble micro- and macro nutrients. In fact, the nutrient content in young Nettle leaves is up to 8 times greater than the mature plant harvested in June, in this respect Nettle has the nature of many commonly used microgreens. Rich in vitamins B, C, K, calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus and sodium, Nettle is considered a nutritious spring tonic. Aqueous infusions extract urticin that have an antihyperglycemic action that help to regulate blood sugar levels in the blood. The plant’s high potassium acts as a vasodilator that opens channels in the cardiovascular, promoting a positive inotropic effect, which may lower blood pressure and induce a state of relaxation.
Phytochemical Changes Through Seasons
As the month of May emerges, Nettle leaves are rich in carotenoids and citric acid displaying their highest antioxidant profile. As June emerges, as do the flowers; generally it is recommended to harvest the plant before the flowers bloom. In August polyphenols such as phenolic acid and ascorbic acid increase and finally in September Nettle finishes its life cycle rich in calcium, magnesium and boron.
Extraction Methods and Pharmacological Actions
As an ethanolic extraction the herb has a tonification effect on the liver anatomy, aiding the balance of liver enzymes. Within the circulatory system it has been shown to reduce total cholesterol count of both LDL and HDL. Methanolic extracts promote a balancing effect on the microbiome, inhibiting bacteria that contribute to conditions of the integumentary system, advocating its beneficial effect on many skin conditions. Ethanolic extractions are most beneficial for BPH prevention and management, the 5-reductase inhibitory effect is particularly enhanced when using the seeds, making them especially relevant in the prevention and management of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)
‘Figure 2. Seasonal distributions of chemical constituents in the U. diocia’
Traditional and Symbolic Uses
Symbolically Nettle represents the change and movements of seasons, rooted to the earth and preaching its boundaries the herb stimulates the release of stagnation and movement within the lymph nodes, helping the body to regenerate after the winter months. Hoffman (2003) describes Nettle’s vast application and ability to strengthen the whole body, having a gentle effect on childhood eczema, as an anti-inflammatory for joint pain and stiffness.
Culinary Applications and Recipes
Aerial parts of the herbs are used in the spring-time, harvesting fresh leaves for nutritional benefits can be a lovely way to taste the herb; Cook the leaves and add them into soups or pasta sauces. Drying the leaves can preserve them to add to teas, or to season your meals! Heat helps to break down the stinging nettles trichomes, as well as drying them. Steep a large table of dried Nettle into warm water, leave to infuse and enjoy!
Dosage and Preparation
Standard doses for dried aerial parts range from 4-8g a day, either as an infusion or decoction. Tinctures may be used at 1-4 ml three times a day (1:5 in 25% ethanol). Always does according to constitution and indication
Energetics and Taste of Nettle
Nettles taste profile is salty, bitter and slightly sweet. It has a cooling effect in the early season and becomes more drying and astringent as it matures. In energetics, nettle is considered mildly stimulating and tonifying, often used to clear heat, nourish blood, and promote movement in stagnant tissues; especially the lymph.
Bioavailability
Adding a squeeze of lemon into your soup or herbal tea adds additional citric acid, which lowers pH and improves the solubility of phenolic compounds and minerals. This enhances the chelation and absorption of iron, calcium and magnesium – a particularly restorative support during or after menstruation
‘Figure 1. Close up of trichomes on U. diocia leaf’
Clinical Safety Considerations
Fresh and dried nettles can be used. The fresh nettles have potent trichomes, a concoction of histamine, serotonin, formic acid, acetylcholine and other chemicals creates a paresthetic puncture as they are irritant to the skin and are generally avoided topically. There are theoretical concerns of its ability to decrease the efficacy of any anticoagulant drugs: due to its potential diuretic actions, concurrent use with diuretics may enhance potassium excretion. Always assess for medication interactions with a professional. Clinical trials have indicated an additive effect on antidiabetic drugs, whereby the sum of medication and Nettle has an overall reduction in blood glucose.
This information is provided for educational purposes only and should not be interpreted as medical advice. As a registered herbalist of NIMH, I operate within the scope of diagnostic wellness support only through personalised 1:1 consultations with a full medical history.
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| Giuseppe Morgia, Salvatore Pivitera (2018) “Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms and Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia”. Research to Bedside, P. 135-175. Bhuwan Chandra Joshi, Minky Mukhija, Adudhia Nath Kalia (2014) “Pharmacognostical Review of Urtica Dioica L.” International Journal of Green Pharmacy, vol. 4, no. 8. Alexander J. Cummings, Michael Olsen, et al., (2011) “Mechanisms of Action of Stinging Nettles”, Wilderness & Environmental Medicine, vol. 22, no. 2, pp. 136-139. Paulauskiene, A., Taraseviciene, Z., Laukagalis, V (2021) “Influence of Harvesting Time on the Chemical Composition of Wild Stinging Nettle (Urtica dioica L.)”, Plants (Basel), vol. 10, no. 4, pp. 686. Taheri, Y., et al. (2022) “Urtica diocia-Derived Phytochemicals for Pharmacogical and Therapeutic Applications”, Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine. |