Nettle leaf useful properties and contraindications. Nettle: useful properties, alternative methods of treatment and contraindications

Nettle is part of many folk recipes for the treatment of a number of different diseases. It has gained popularity due to the presence of beneficial compounds that have a beneficial effect on the body. During growth, succulent stems and leaves accumulate a significant amount of microelements, vitamins and other biologically active substances necessary for the body.

Stinging nettle is widely used not only in herbal medicine, but also in cosmetology, pharmacology, gynecology. First courses are prepared with it, its leaves are poured with boiling water to make a pleasant refreshing tea.

But it is required to use nettle with caution, because, like other plants that deserve frequent mention in folk healers, it has its own contraindications. Therefore, before use, especially if we are not talking about a single dose, you should consult with your local doctor.

On the beneficial features Nettle people have paid attention for a long time, but the popularity of this plant does not decrease even today. Young leaves are used in cosmetology, dermatology, gynecology and many other medical fields.

In our latitudes, two species can be found - this is stinging nettle and dioecious. It is the latter that is considered the most useful. It grows in forests and park recreation areas, near houses and rivers, in wastelands. The leaves are equilateral and have a bright green color and long petioles. Stinging nettle differs from the dioecious variety in the presence of small dense hairs on the leaves.

This useful plant can be bought at a pharmacy or collected independently. To obtain a therapeutic effect, it is enough to brew tea, even excellent and, most importantly, healthy cabbage soup is obtained from nettle leaves.

Of course, for the collection of plant materials, one should choose places away from the roads, in ecologically clean areas, so as not to harm the body instead of the expected positive effect. Dusty nettle leaves growing on roadsides are contraindicated.

What contains

Humanity has been using herbal treatment since antiquity, and stinging nettle occupies one of the leading places in herbal medicine, without losing its popularity over the centuries.

This plant contains a set of trace elements that positively affect many systems of our body. Vitamin K found in the leaves has anti-inflammatory properties and has a significant effect on blood clotting. In addition, nettle contains calcium, flavonoids, formic acid, tannins and many other chemical elements.

Nettle is able to quickly and effectively remove harmful toxins from the body, and with a course application - to cleanse the skin.

This plant, like carrots, contains a large amount of beta-carotene, which has a beneficial effect on the organs of vision and protects the cells of the body as a whole from free radicals.

The green leaves of stinging nettle are rich in vitamin E and B vitamins, as well as iron, chlorophyll, coumarins and flavonoids, which have powerful antioxidant effects.

Beautiful hair

Folk recipes that have come to us for a long time, even from our great-grandmothers, most often turn out to be the most effective. Look at old photos - all women have thick, luxurious long braids.

  1. The plant helps fight diseases of the scalp, prevents hair loss, promotes their speedy growth.
  2. There are many ways to use nettle as a hair care product. The plant can be added to store-bought shampoos and rinses, or made into home remedies based on it, applied to the hair as a mask and used internally as a tea.
  3. With proper use of nettle, you can get rid of problems such as dandruff, brittle hair, split ends, excessive oiliness of the scalp.
  4. Nettle "works" as an antiseptic and has anti-inflammatory properties.
  5. With regular use of the decoction, you can achieve a radiant shine, the hair will become noticeably thicker and healthier.
  6. Systematic rinsing of the head after washing with a decoction of nettle helps to restore hair damaged by frequent dyeing or perm, improves their color due to the content of minerals and useful trace elements that the female body lacks.

The beneficial substances contained in this herb will not disappear, even if you use it in a dried form from autumn to spring.

Men can also use the hair care recipes given here, although, in truth, they care about their beauty much less than the fair sex.

Moreover, there are simply no contraindications for washing hair with decoctions of stinging nettle.

An ideal remedy for improving the growth of beautiful and healthy hair is nettle oil. It can be used as a mask before shampooing, and as a balm after shampooing. This oil will protect your hair from the harmful effects of hot air from a hair dryer when drying and styling your hair.

Nettle oil is sold in a pharmacy. But you can make a decoction yourself - for free. For its preparation, both leaves and stems, and even the roots of the plant, are suitable. With regular use, hair will soon shine with shine and health!

Another significant plus in favor of nettle decoctions is that they are practically odorless.

What is dangerous

The leaves and stems of the plant are also useful for internal use, but within reasonable limits. When treating with nettle, it is better to treat this process with caution and ask the doctor for advice, since this plant has its own characteristics and contraindications.

  • Affects the density of blood and its clotting. Therefore, if a person has high pressure, he is sick with hypertension or atherosclerosis, apply nettle in medicinal purposes it is forbidden.
  • With varicose veins and thrombophlebitis, it is also not recommended to use products based on this plant material.
  • The use of nettle is also contraindicated for those who have kidney problems.
  • In no case should you drink decoctions from the leaves of the plant during pregnancy, as they can stimulate uterine contractions and lead to premature birth.
  • Another contraindication is any kind of tumor.

With thoughtless use, any remedy can do harm instead of the expected recovery. Be careful and thoroughly study the chosen treatment method before implementing it into reality.


Tidying up the suburban area, each of us at least once got burned on a lurking nettle bush. This weed plant multiplies rapidly, turning into impenetrable burning thickets. Do not rush to destroy the entire population, because nettle medicinal properties and the contraindications of which we will consider in the article, is able to give a person good health and longevity.

The genus Urtica got its name from the Latin word for “burn”, which is why in Russia it was called a zhguchka or goad. The genus includes over 50 species that are common in temperate climates, some representatives are found in the Southern Hemisphere.

The underground part of the bush is represented by a creeping rhizome. Nettle seeds practically do not reproduce, the annual growth from the rhizome is 35-40 cm. The bush has hollow tetrahedral erect stems. The foliage is opposite, the plates are a rich green hue. Leaflets with large teeth along the edge, elongated-ovate shape with a pointed tip.

The surface of the entire aerial part of the bush is dotted with stinging hairs. They are an ampulla-shaped cell containing a mixture of histamine and formic acid. In the place of contact with the plant, rashes, burning and redness immediately appear.

It is interesting! Some representatives of the genus Urtica contain neurotoxins in the hairs, so the burn is very painful and takes a long time to heal. There are known cases of death of animals and humans, burned on a nettle tree.

Flowering period from early summer to mid-autumn. Small flowers are divided into male and female, they are collected in small spikelets or panicles. Pollen is carried by the wind. The fruit is represented by a small nut.

Since ancient times, plaits and fabric have been made from grass. The green mass is mowed down for fodder for livestock and poultry, which increases milk yield, egg production, since the bush is rich in protein. Gardeners use the infusion as a powerful nitrogen-mineral fertilizer. Young vitamin greens are used in cooking for making salads, dressing green soups, salting, stuffing for pies. But the burning weed found its greatest use in folk medicine.

nettle species

Although the genus Urtica has about 50 species, only one is recognized as pharmacopoeial - stinging nettle. It differs from its burning relative in growth and size of foliage. This perennial can reach two meters in height. Usually the leaves have a heart-shaped base, elongated up to 8-17 cm long. The tip of the leaf is greatly elongated, large teeth pass along the edge. The stem and foliage are covered with burning hairs. The flowers are dioecious, located in the axils of the leaves, collected in paniculate inflorescences. Nuts reach a length of 1-1.5 mm. Quickly forms impenetrable thickets.

Stinging nettle reaches a height of 20-35 cm, its leaves are dark green, oval in shape with an elongated tip. The length of the plate is 3-6 cm, the edges are serrated. Inflorescences are represented by short spikelets with small greenish flowers. Powerful wrens do not form, grows in clearings.

On a note! According to the content of fats, protein and carbohydrates, the burning variety is in the lead.

Procurement of vegetable raw materials

From a pharmacological point of view, fresh plant materials are of the greatest value, but you can stock them up for future use. For these purposes, only healthy specimens growing in ecologically favorable areas are selected.

As a medicinal raw material, a hardwood mass is harvested. To do this, the bush needs to be cut or mowed, wait a few hours for the outflow of nutrients into the leaf blades. Be sure to use gloves to protect your skin! The burning sensation will disappear during drying. The leaves are cut, laid out in a layer of 3-5 cm on the fabric. Drying is carried out in a well-ventilated area without access to sunlight. It is possible to dry raw materials in electric dryers at 40-50⁰C. Dried leaves are put in linen bags, stored at room temperature for up to two years.

In folk medicine, plant juice and dried rhizomes are also used. The juice is squeezed out with gauze after grinding and short-term (10 minutes) heating of the mass. The second way is to use a meat grinder or juicer. Shelf life is no more than three days in the refrigerator. Rhizomes should be dug up in the spring, when shoots have just appeared. After thorough washing, they are crushed and dried in the manner described above, the shelf life is 2 years.

Advice! You can please the body with vitamin soup even in winter. To do this, the leaves of the zhguchka, after thorough washing, are crushed and frozen.

The chemical composition and medicinal properties of the plant

The medicinal properties of the herb are closely related to its rich chemical composition. Deciduous mass is considered a natural concentrate of vitamins. It is believed that only 20 fresh leaves will fill the daily need for vitamins and minerals. Between the dioecious and burning varieties in the chemical composition, the difference is not too great.

Vegetable protein, fats and amino acids are an indispensable material for building cells. They are easier to digest, do not contain cholesterol, supply the body with the necessary energy, participate in all metabolic processes. Vegetable carbohydrates saturate the body for a long time, help reduce blood glucose levels.

Consider what substances are included in chemical composition goads, and what effect they have on the human body:

  1. Cellulose. Vegetable fibers are not broken down by enzymes in the stomach; the intestines “engage” in their digestion. Throughout the gastrointestinal tract, they act like a panicle, cleansing the body of harmful substances. Fiber stimulates the work of all parts of the intestine, normalizes the microflora and digestion.
  2. Vitamin C. Stimulates own immunity, has a positive effect on growth bone tissue strengthens the walls of blood vessels. Vitamin C protects against oxidative processes, is a powerful antioxidant.
  3. Chlorophyll. A natural pigment used in the food industry as a dye. It acts as a powerful stimulant on the body, promotes cell division and the production of red blood cells, wound healing. Increases muscle tone, activates the receptors of the respiratory center.
  4. Phytoncides. Destroy pathogenic microflora, contribute to the rapid tightening of the wound surface, prevent infection of wounds and burns.
  5. Vitamin K. Increases blood coagulation, participates in protein metabolism, promotes the absorption of calcium. It ensures the normal functioning of the heart and lungs, stops bleeding of various origins.
  6. Tannins. They have an astringent effect, normalize bowel function. Perfectly disinfect, relieve inflammation, help stop the blood.
  7. organic acids. They have a positive effect on digestion, activate enzymes, eliminate fermentation and flatulence, have choleretic properties, and maintain the acid-base balance of the body.
  8. Formic acid. In high concentrations, this substance causes severe burns, but in small doses it is beneficial. Relieves pain and inflammation, helps regeneration cartilage tissue improves skin condition, stimulates digestion.
  9. Vitamins of group B. Indispensable for the normal functioning of the nervous system, contribute to normal hematopoiesis, improve the functioning of the brain, heart, liver and kidneys, endocrine glands. They are involved in metabolism, promote the removal of toxins from cells, normalize hormonal levels, and improve sperm motility.
  10. Quercetin. Protects against free radicals, prevents cancer, relieves inflammation.
  11. Carotene. Natural dye, immunostimulant, stimulates cell growth, is an antioxidant. It has a positive effect on the condition of hair and skin.

Important! Vegetable raw materials contain secretin, a hormone that regulates the production of insulin by the pancreas. The herb has long been used in the treatment of diabetes, normalization of blood sugar levels.

Nettle is rich in macro and microelements - Fe, K, Cu, Mn, B, P, J, Ca. Without them, the normal functioning of all body systems is impossible. In terms of the amount of iron, greens compete with popular medicines like Ferrum Lek. It contains 4 times more vitamin C than blackcurrant and rosehip, and much more carotene than carrots and sea buckthorn berries.

Based on the chemical composition of the herb, it can be used to treat a variety of diseases. Diabetes and bleeding, pathologies of the heart and blood vessels, liver, kidneys, and intestines will not resist the healing power. Greens will help say goodbye to anemia and beriberi.

The plant will strengthen the immune system, help reduce weight and gain muscle mass, normalize hormone levels, stabilize the menstrual cycle, and eliminate inflammation of various locations. Skin diseases, wounds, ulcers, burns, hair loss will be a thing of the past if you learn to use the valuable gift of nature.

Useful qualities of nettle for women

The female body throughout life undergoes serious changes associated with the hormonal background. Thanks to natural phytohormones and phytoncides, nettle leaves will help normalize the condition of the skin and hair, relieve inflammation from acne, and put the menstrual cycle in order.

Application in cosmetology

Based on the herb, shampoos and hair care products, lotions, tonics, and creams for problem skin have long been produced. To get the most benefit from the plant, make homemade cosmetics. Enrich your favorite face mask by adding a little dry leaf powder. This will help get rid of oily sheen and small imperfections. Juice or fresh leaves will eliminate warts if applied several times a day to the surface. Daily rubbing of the face with a decoction of herbs will give the skin a velvety texture and restore a healthy glow.

Advice! Combine external use with decoctions, fresh juice or infusions. This will greatly increase the effectiveness of therapy.

Many women have forgotten about skin irritation, acne, furunculosis. Turn the leafy mass into gruel, add fresh yolk. This mask is applied to the face for 20-30 minutes, after which they are washed with cool water. Without adding yolk, nettle gruel is applied under a bandage to hard-to-heal wounds and burns.

Hair Benefits

Improvement of the scalp when using products from nettle leaves was noted in ancient times. They treated skin diseases, dandruff, seborrhea, eczema. Even now, the grass has not lost its popularity, because every woman dreams of health, shine and strength of hair. Phytohormones stimulate growth, and phytoncides, tannins and formic acid regulate acidity and fight fungus.

To achieve the desired effect, you should rinse your hair with infusion of herbs after each wash. To activate hair growth, periodically rub fresh nettle juice into the scalp. Nettle oil, which can be purchased at the pharmacy network, will also help in the struggle for healthy hair. It is applied to the roots, left for 30 minutes, after which they wash their hair with shampoo.

By the way! For men, the plant will also help get rid of problems with the scalp, slow down the process of baldness.

Medicinal properties in gynecology

Thanks to vitamin K, natural hormones and chlorophyll, nettle infusions and decoctions help to normalize menstrual cycle. They will help reduce the intensity of bleeding, put in order the level of sex hormones, increase the level of hemoglobin, relieve pain.

In gynecological practice, infusions and decoctions of the burner are used, which must be drunk in a course according to the scheme prescribed by the doctor. Often vegetable raw materials are mixed with other components - lungwort, horsetail, anise, yarrow.

Fresh juice is used to coagulate the surface of the cervix during erosion. It is applied to a tampon and inserted into the vagina overnight. The course of treatment is 1 month. Nettle tea is useful in the postpartum period, it enhances uterine contractions, stimulates milk production. Suitable for these purposes and juice, which is diluted with water 2-3 times and drunk before meals, a tablespoon three times a day.

Healing properties for men

A burning weed will bring a lot of benefits to the male body:

  • return male power;
  • normalizes hormonal balance;
  • improve the condition of the scalp, stop baldness;
  • restore the function of the prostate gland with prostatitis;
  • stops inflammation in the pelvis;
  • help in the fight against hemorrhoids;
  • promotes muscle building, relieves pain after physical exertion;
  • improve blood circulation, cleanse the blood of cholesterol plaques.

The anti-inflammatory properties of the burner, combined with the ability to improve blood composition, have a positive effect on men's health, potency, the work of the cardiovascular and immune systems.

Contraindications

Regardless of the method of application, the use of plant materials is unacceptable in the presence of allergic reactions and individual intolerance. External use of herbs in the form of lotions, ointments, face and hair care products has no restrictions.

The intake of extracts and fresh plant materials inside should be limited to people who have problems with blood clotting. Thrombophlebitis, atherosclerosis, hypertension, varicose veins are strict contraindications to taking herbal medicines. Remember that the course of treatment should not exceed 7-10 days, further tactics are agreed with the attending physician.

The use of vegetable raw materials during pregnancy is unacceptable. An increase in smooth muscle tone can provoke a miscarriage or premature labor. Renal and heart failure are also contraindications.

Attention! Since the burner can accelerate tissue regeneration and cell growth, it cannot be used in the presence of tumors of any localization and nature (malignant, benign).

Folk healing recipes with nettle

Folk healers have found use for all parts of the burner, but most often for the manufacture of medicinal products, hardwood is used. Consider several popular recipes for remedies that can overcome any disease.

Basic infusion recipe, areas of application

For the preparation of herbal infusion, fresh or dried plant materials are used. Standard ratios are 1-2 tablespoons of leaves per 200 ml of boiling water. Boil the leaves and insist until completely cooled. Dosage 50 ml four times a day before meals.

Such an infusion is suitable for restoring the uterus after childbirth, treating anemia, diabetes, gout, gastrointestinal diseases. It will saturate the body with vitamins, relieve inflammation, and stop bleeding. When it is administered with an enema 2 times a day, 40 ml.

For diseases of the musculoskeletal system

In diseases of the musculoskeletal system, nettle should be used as an infusion, combining treatment with the application of rubbing or applications:

  1. Inside, use an infusion of a tablespoon of dried leaves with a glass of boiling water. After brewing, wrap the container with a towel, soak for 4 hours. After complete cooling, strain, drink four times a day before meals, a tablespoon.
  2. Use fresh leaves to prepare an alcohol rub. Fill a liter jar with it and pour high-quality vodka up to the shoulders. Keep in a dark place for 14 days. Use with painful sensations in the joints, do not forget to wrap.
  3. Grind the leafy mass with a meat grinder, add 20 g of chopped horseradish root and 100 g of high-quality butter. Store in the refrigerator with the container tightly closed. This ointment is applied at night.

On a note! Alcohol rubbing is effective for treating purulent wounds and fistulous tracts.

With beriberi

An excellent remedy for beriberi is fresh nettle juice. How to squeeze it out, you already know. Dosage for adults - a dessert spoon, for children - a teaspoon. Juice should be drunk on an empty stomach, previously diluted with clean water 1: 3. This natural remedy will improve metabolism, purify the blood, eliminate fatigue, help break down kidney stones, and cure anemia. Store no more than three days in the refrigerator.

To strengthen immunity

To strengthen the immune system, I use two tools:

  1. Half the amount of honey (2:1) is added to fresh grass juice. The drug is drunk three times a day for 20 g.
  2. Alcohol tincture of 200 g of fresh herbs and 0.7 liters of vodka is aged for 7-10 days. After straining, it is placed in the refrigerator, drunk before meals in the morning and in the evening, half a teaspoon.

This recipe is also effective for diabetes, anemia, bowel and liver problems. Contraindications include allergy to bee products.

Vessel cleansing tea

Herbal tea effectively eliminates cholesterol plaques, normalizes the pancreas, helps with gout and rheumatism. Tea has a pronounced choleretic, diuretic and lactogenic effect.

3-4 fresh leaves are enough for a cup of tea. They are poured with a glass of cold water, brought to a boil with slight heating. After turning off the fire, the leaves are steamed for 30 minutes. It is not necessary to filter the tea, the effectiveness of the remedy will increase if the leaves are eaten. Drink a drink in 2-3 doses.

Know! You can enrich the bouquet of tea and add useful properties by mixing raw materials with rose hips or sea buckthorn, leaves black currant, raspberries. Two tablespoons of phytocollection are brewed with two liters of water in a thermos, kept for 2 hours.

To normalize the menstrual cycle, eliminate bleeding

Abundant and painful menstruation is treated with an infusion of the plant, which can be flavored with buckthorn bark to eliminate pain. Raw materials are taken in equal proportions, a tablespoon of the collection is brewed into a glass. Take the infusion once a day, 200 ml. Nettle infusion without other components is drunk 3-5 times a day for a tablespoon.

To improve metabolism

The following remedy will help normalize the metabolism in diabetes, anemia, obesity:

  • flowers or leaves of bugs - 6 tablespoons;
  • boiling water - 3 cups.

Brew raw materials, soak for 15 minutes. After straining, drink 200 ml three times a day before meals. The amount indicated in the recipe is enough for 1 day.

For chronic lung disease

Thanks to chlorophyll, phytoncides and tannins, the burner does an excellent job with strong. For the manufacture of a decoction, the rhizomes of the bush are used. They are washed, cut and boiled in sugar syrup for 20 minutes. Sweet decoction drink a tablespoon 3-4 times a day.

On a note! From a dry cough, the flowers from which the infusion is prepared will also help. Flowers should be taken in a teaspoon per 400 ml of boiling water, infusion time is 15 minutes, the dosage is the same.

For the treatment of prostatitis and increased potency

The ancient Greeks and Romans considered nettle seeds to be a real aphrodisiac, and the highlanders adhered to the same opinion. To restore male power, use one of the following folk recipes:

  1. Simmer 5 tablespoons of nettle nuts over low heat, pouring half a liter of red fortified wine or port wine over them. Heating time - 5 minutes. After cooling and straining, drink 50 ml once a day.
  2. Prepare an infusion from the rhizomes. Take 2 tablespoons of roots per liter of vodka, insist in a dark place for 20 days. Once a day before a meal, drink 20 drops of the drug.
  3. Every day, eat a tablespoon of a remedy made from the pulp of one banana mixed with a tablespoon of seeds.
  4. Grind the seeds in a coffee grinder. Add once a day to a raw village egg. The course of treatment is 5 days, the remedy is consumed 30 minutes before breakfast.

The listed recipes will help get rid of other "male" problems - smoker's cough, loss of strength, muscle pain, prostate adenoma, weakening of libido. They will serve as a prevention of diseases of the heart and blood vessels, the deposition of kidney stones.

Today we will talk about a wonderful plant, which, unfortunately, is not very popular because of its "baking character". By the way, nettle has been known to people for more than 2000 years and throughout this time its medicinal properties have been used. We hope that after reading our article, you will look differently at this useful "weed"!

Nettle: useful properties and contraindications

Nettle has a "useful" chemical composition. It contains vitamins (especially group B), trace elements, ascorbic and organic acids. But especially a lot of chlorophyll, which gives the plant value. After all, it has been proven that chlorophyll is responsible for the regenerative, strengthening, tonic and stimulating function of the body. And this substance optimizes the work of the cardiac and respiratory systems.

Benefits are brought not only by nettle leaves, but also by seeds. They are high in flavonoids and fatty oil (which is 80% linoleic acid).

The use of nettle in folk medicine

In spring, nettles and - one of the most useful plants on our table. Nettle treatment folk remedies applied for many years. List of uses in traditional medicine:

  • to strengthen hair (with severe hair loss, baldness, seborrhea and early gray hair); Alternate nettles with.
  • a good diuretic (edema, kidney stones and even rheumatism);
  • as a supportive agent in the treatment of severe forms of diabetes mellitus;
  • to raise immunity after respiratory and intestinal infections (flu, poisoning);
  • to restore the hematopoietic system with iron deficiency anemia, heavy bleeding, atherosclerosis and to normalize the menstrual cycle;
  • to cleanse the blood for allergies;
  • to optimize the work of the digestive system in diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and duodenum(ulcer, gastritis, cholecystitis, etc.).

Contraindications to the use of nettle

Unfortunately, not everyone can use the beneficial properties of nettle, there are some contraindications. Since it increases blood clotting, it is prohibited for use by people with varicose veins, thrombosis and thrombophlebitis.

Since it is quite easy to find nettles with us, it is useful to know how to properly collect and where to store this “queen of the fields”.

Remember that it is best to start collecting the plant in May, at this time it contains the maximum amount of vitamins. Traditional healers use not only leaves, but also seeds and even nettle root. Seeds are obtained during the flowering period. To do this, cut the plant, tie it in small bunches and when they dry a little, then shake the seeds over a sieve. Well, they are engaged in roots in the first half of autumn.

How to store

"Component" plants require proper storage. For example, seeds best kept in a tightly sealed glass container. By the way, if you use seed powder, it is better to grind them immediately after drying.

nettle leaves immediately cut off from the stem, then laid out on paper (rag) in one layer and dried in the shade (for example, in the attic). Dried leaves are recommended to be packed in paper bags, away from sunlight. Use preferably within 2 years.

nettle roots scrape off the earth and rinse under cold water pressure, then leave to air dry, lay out on a paper or fabric cover. If this is not possible, then put it in the kitchen (on top of the kitchen drawers), there is the most suitable “climate”. Dried roots can be kept both in paper bags and in glass containers.


Treatment with nettle folk remedies

"Weed" is actively used in folk medicine for a variety of sores. There are a lot of recipes for the treatment of nettle with folk remedies and it is unrealistic to describe them all in one article. Therefore, we tried to choose the most popular and affordable of them.

Allergic rashes on the skin

There are several ways. First, you can make a powder from the leaves dried in the open sun. And it is easy to apply to problem areas on the skin. And you can also make a decoction of nettle and use it as lotions or compresses. To do this, you need 2 tablespoons of crushed leaves and 200 milliliters of boiling water. Let it brew for a few hours, then strain and you can use it for its intended purpose.

Bleeding

We note right away that nettle cannot be used as a hemostatic agent for tumors, cysts or polyps! Otherwise, use this recipe. Take a few medium leaves, you can tear them into small pieces and pour boiling water in a glass or other glass container. Leave for 6 hours. This infusion should be taken one tablespoon, no more than three times a day.

Acute gastric ulcer

For ulcers, herbalists recommend a simple recipe based on it. You should take 3-4 medium leaves of the plant, pour them with a glass of boiling water and hold in a water bath for about ten minutes. Drink this nettle decoction warm, one tablespoon 30 minutes before meals (no more than 4 times a day).

Pain in the heels (also called "spurs")

Dissolve 2 tablespoons of starch in a small amount of water. Add the same amount of chopped dried nettle leaves. Pour two liters into the resulting mixture hot water. In this infusion, you need to soar your legs for about 15 minutes (the temperature should be comfortable). Then wipe your feet, massage them with a rolling pin for dough (you can roll a small hard ball, for example, for tennis).

Joint pain

For joint pain, try this recipe. Place nettle leaves tightly in a liter jar, fill with vodka (leaves should not stick out). The tincture is prepared for 12 days, shake the jar every few days. Then strain and use the resulting liquid for rubbing or compresses before going to bed. It should be stored in a cool place.

Video: About the benefits of nettle

For hair loss

Nettle for hair is very useful. It helps with severe hair loss, weakened curls and even the appearance of baldness. Note that the plant should be dried in a special way. Cut off at the root, pick up a bunch and hang upside down to dry. You can do this on the veranda or attic. To rinse your hair, prepare the following infusion: pour boiling water (half a liter jar) into 2-3 tablespoons of the plant. Let it infuse for half an hour, then pour in 5 tablespoons of vinegar and strain. Do a rinse daily, shortly before bedtime, and the hair should be wrapped until completely dry. If within a month you do not see improvement, then try nettle oil. It is sold in a pharmacy at an affordable price, and if you are engaged in hair during the "season" of flowering (usually the month of June), then you have the opportunity to make the oil yourself.

For insomnia

If you can’t fall asleep for a long time, then nettle seeds may help you. Pour one tablespoon of seeds with a glass of water and boil over low heat for 10 minutes. Drain and infuse for at least 60 minutes. If desired, before use, you can add a teaspoon of honey. Drink half a glass of decoction an hour before bedtime.

To boost immunity

If you want to strengthen your body, then take May nettle (200 grams), add vodka or 70% alcohol (500 ml). Wrap the neck of the jar with gauze or other cloth. Now we prepare the tincture as follows: for the first day, leave the jar on the windowsill, then hide it in a dry, dark place for 8 days. Don't forget to strain! Take one teaspoon, 2 times a day: in the morning (on an empty stomach) half an hour before meals and in the evening, shortly before bedtime. It is recommended to store this infusion in glassware, it is desirable that the glass be dark.

For nervous stress

Nettle is a good sedative, so if you often get nervous, it’s good to always have a “magic” decoction on hand. To cook it, you need to pick the tops of a tall young one (at least 25 centimeters high). Rinse them, dry them, cut them into small pieces and collect half of the sterilized jar (1l). Fill the jar with cold water (boiled), cover the neck with gauze and soak for 10 hours on the windowsill. You should drink 100 ml (half a glass) 3 times a day.

If you have gallstones

Even with such an ailment, the healing properties of nettle will help to cope. The recipe is as follows: pick up the roots, wash them thoroughly, grind them (by scrolling through a meat grinder). Now we take 1 tablespoon of roots, a glass sugar syrup. Mix them, boil for fifteen minutes, cool and filter. Drink the decoction 4 times a day, a tablespoon, shortly before meals. The course of treatment is 21 days, then a two-week break and you can repeat it.

Nettle - medicinal plant, has many useful properties due to its composition - contains many vitamins. It is known for its ability to strengthen hair and stimulate their growth. In traditional medicine, the herb is part of preparations for removing bile - all parts of the plant are used, including the roots. But the leaves are the most beneficial. It is very important to follow the rules of their collection and drying.

plant description

In total, about 40 species of nettle grow in the country. The most common are dioecious and burning. Often in hospitals and pharmaceuticals, the former is used.

The plant has a height of 15 to 60 cm, covered with small villi. For a person, a nettle burn is not dangerous. It blooms almost all summer - from June to August. The most useful nettle is May nettle.

stinging nettle

The plant endures winter in the form of rhizomes located under a layer of soil. Signs of stinging nettle:

  • Pronounced stem with 4 sides.
  • Simple leaves, but the edge is strongly indented.
  • Opposite arrangement on the stem.

Stinging nettle has long been used both in science and in medicine. The plant is known for its high content of vitamins - C, B1 and B2.

Due to this content of nutrients, one dish from such a plant can provide the body with a daily dose of vitamins. Nettle leaves contain a number of organic acids. For example, pantothenic, which promotes wound healing and is widely used in folk medicine. That is why the petals of the plant are applied to damaged areas of the body.

Pharmaceutical Properties

The plant is rich in minerals and vitamins. The composition includes such useful substances as magnesium, phosphorus, protein, vitamin C, sodium, potassium, amino acids. Its healing properties are also due to the content of chlorophyll, tannins, etc.

Nettle has twice as much ascorbic acid as lemon or blackcurrant. And the content of carotene is higher than in sea buckthorn, carrots. Stems contain more protein than legumes.

It also contains secretin, which brings the metabolism to a normal state and helps the production of insulin - which helps to reduce blood sugar (useful for people with diabetes).

Nettle has the following medicinal properties:

  • relieves inflammation;
  • stops bleeding;
  • saturates the body with vitamins;
  • treats itching;
  • strengthens the immune system;
  • stimulates regeneration;
  • normalizes metabolism;
  • stimulates the renewal of hepatocytes (liver cells);
  • relieves pain;
  • kills microbes;
  • stimulates the excretion of bile;
  • has a diuretic and expectorant effect;
  • cleanses the blood;
  • has an anticonvulsant effect.

Nettle is present in the composition of the Allohol medical preparation, which is used to treat diseases of the biliary tract. It is also used in herbal preparations or on its own for radiation injuries.


In cooking, this herb is common due to the content of vitamins A, B and C, as well as iron, calcium, magnesium, silicon and chlorophyll.

In large quantities, the protein contained in it is used in agriculture to increase egg production in chickens and milk yield of cows.

Juice use

In the summer, it is best to be treated with the juice of the plant. Nettle is able to stop the development of the tumor. A safe daily dose of fresh herb is 1.5 tablespoons. It contains vitamin K, which increases the production of prothrombin, therefore, thins the blood, reducing its clotting.

Juice is best made from young leaves and shoots. Drink a freshly prepared decoction of 1 tsp. 3 times a day to improve the condition of the body, blood composition, restore blood, from inflammation, as a means for expectoration, improve metabolism.

Fresh juice is applied with swabs to wounds, burns. They gargle, bury in the nose. Store the product for no more than a day in the refrigerator.

Collection and harvesting of nettles

Most often, nettle treatment is carried out with dried leaves, which can be found in a pharmacy or prepared independently. But before using the plant, you should consult a doctor.

Wild nettles begin to be collected in May and until August. Tear it off carefully, wearing gloves. Dry in the open air. Whole nettles are used to make juice. The roots are dug up in spring or autumn, cleaned from the ground and dried in air or artificial heating.

Another method - slightly raised grass is mowed and laid out in attics with good ventilation. Spread out in a thin layer to dry.

There is almost no vitamin K in dried nettles. It reduces blood clotting and fluidity. It is for these reasons that grass leaves are recommended to be used in collections with other plants.

Folk recipes

The use of nettle in folk medicine includes many recipes for medicinal solutions for drinking. Home cooking instructions:

  • To cleanse the blood, you can make a tincture: 1 tsp. herbs pour boiling water (glass), insist, strain. Drink 3 tbsp. l. before meals for a month, morning and evening.
  • To improve the composition of the blood, the work of the heart and liver: pour 5 tbsp. l. herbs 500 ml of boiling water, warm over low heat, leave for half an hour. Drink half a cup before meals 4 times a day.
  • To maintain the health of the kidneys, a decoction is prepared: you need to pour 2 tbsp. l. a glass of boiling water and simmer for 15 minutes. Take 0.5 cup with honey 4 times before meals.
  • With gout and stones in the bladder with urate stones, a collection of dry nettle, oregano and birch leaves will help. Dry raw materials are taken in the amount of 3 tbsp. l. for 500 ml of boiling water. It is necessary to drink 100 ml 4-5 times a day for 1.5-2 months.
  • For long-term non-healing wounds, burns, the leaves are ground into powder, sifted and powdered on sore spots 1-3 times.
  • Means for strengthening the immunity of children. Brew one 1 tsp. powder, pour boiling water (glass) and leave for 15 minutes in a thermos. Drink with honey one glass 2-3 times a day, preparing a new infusion. It tones, improves immunity and protects against microbes.
  • To increase lactation. Pour 2 tbsp. l. nettle 0.5 liters of hot water and insist. Drink throughout the day.
  • With a decrease in blood clotting. 2 tbsp. l. brew in 1.5 tbsp. boiling water, boil for 10 minutes. Take before meals 5 times a day, dosage: 1 tbsp. l.
  • In gynecology, with heavy and painful periods in women. For cooking, you need 2 tbsp. l. brew in a glass of boiling water. Take before meals 4 times a day, dosage: 1 tbsp. l.
  • For compresses and washing: 2 tbsp. l. dry nettle pour a glass of boiling water, let it brew for 25 minutes, then strain. During scarring, fistula waters should be washed with juice.
  • For mouthwash. A teaspoon of nettle and mint should be brewed with a glass of boiling water, leave for 10 minutes, then strain and cool. Rinse after eating, massaging the gums with a toothbrush.
  • With rheumatism of the joints and pain in the muscles. Pour 2 tbsp. l. a glass of boiling water, insist in a thermos, strain. Take up to 2 tbsp. l. food 4 times a day.
  • For chronic cough. The roots should be cut and boiled in sugar syrup. Take before meals 4 times a day, dosage: 1 tbsp. l.
  • For painful menstruation. Use a collection of nettle and yarrow: 1 tbsp. l. you need to pour a glass of boiling water, boil over low heat for a couple of minutes, then insist. Drink 4 times a day for 0.25 cups.

Despite the great benefits of nettle, it also has contraindications. The plant can be harmful during pregnancy, thrombophlebitis, blood diseases and an increased risk of heart attack.

For dandruff and hair loss

The plant effectively helps to cope with dandruff. To do this, 500 g of fresh leaves are brewed in half a liter of boiling water, simmered for 20 minutes, monitored. When warm, rub into the roots or rinse the hair after washing.

A decoction is also used against gray hair and increased oiliness of hair. Dandruff is treated by rubbing fresh nettle juice diluted with water. Or use a decoction: 1 tbsp. l. leaves are brewed with a glass of boiling water, insist an hour.

In case of baldness, fresh leaves are crushed, placed in a clean jar, poured with vodka or moonshine and insisted for 3 weeks, then filtered. The product is rubbed into the balding areas of the head.

Herbal collection is excellent for baldness and other hair problems: equal parts of nettle leaves and coltsfoot are taken, 3 tbsp. l. healing mixture is poured with boiling water, insisted and rinsed head.

Nettle in diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and heart

For this purpose, stinging nettle is used. It is good for stomach cramps, pain and vomiting. A teaspoon of the dried root is poured into a glass of milk, simmered on fire for about 5-10 minutes.

Rules for use: a quarter of a glass is consumed hot, after that, 2 tbsp. l. until the discomfort stops every 2 hours.

Vascular diseases are treated as follows: a decoction of the plant with honey is taken. Effectively cut off the tops of young plants, even before they begin to bloom. 5 tablespoons in dried form are poured with 2 cups of boiling water, simmered for 5 minutes, then cooled, filtered. It is necessary to use the remedy inside 0.5 cups 4 times a day, diluted with honey.

Restoration of sexual function

The seeds of the plant are used to increase sexual desire. They are added to wine or port: 5 tbsp. l. seeds are boiled with 0.5 liters of port or wine for 5 minutes. The same recipe can be obtained by scalding the leaves with boiling water and stirring with green onions and eggs.

You can normalize sexual function by taking the following remedy: for cooking, you need to mix nettle seed powder with ground black pepper. After that, break the raw egg into a glass, add the mixture on the tip of a knife and mix. Take 30 minutes before breakfast for 3-5 days.

Nettle is used in various variations all parts of the plant are used. Today you will learn everything about the medicinal properties and contraindications. We will also consider recipes for men and women that will relieve serious pathological phenomena. You can buy a fee at a pharmacy or prepare it on your own. In any case, valuable qualities will remain unchanged.

Nettle - composition and medicinal properties

Stinging nettle - herbaceous plant, which has medicinal properties and contraindications. It is generally accepted that 20 fresh leaves contain the daily requirement of an adult for minerals and vitamins.

No. 1. Cellulose

They act as a kind of brush for the digestive tract. The fibers are not broken down during the passage through the esophagus, they are digested only in the intestines. Taking an infusion/decoction of nettle or other dosage forms plants, you can do a colossal detox. You will be cleansed of slagging, poisons of various nature, salts of heavy metals. Nettle will improve intestinal motility, prevent food fermentation.

No. 2. VitaminC

The well-known ascorbic acid acts as a powerful stimulant of immunity. At the same time, it is a natural type of antioxidant. Vitamin C strengthens the walls of blood channels, takes part in the formation of blood cells, protects cells from oxidative processes. By the way, there is 4 times more ascorbic acid in nettles than in currants.

Number 3. Formic acid

Nettle concentrates formic acid, the medicinal properties and contraindications of which have been studied repeatedly. AT large quantities it causes burns, but in a dosed volume it brings exceptional benefits. The acid is aimed at compacting cartilage and bones, it improves the condition of the skin by stimulating the production of collagen. Very often, formic acid is prescribed for those who are faced with inflammatory processes or severe pain in the joints.

No. 4. Tannins

They are famous for their astringent effect, improve digestion, and relieve stomach pain. Eliminate inflammation, stop internal bleeding. Tannins are fixed and disinfected, so taking nettle decoctions is indicated for diarrhea and dysbacteriosis.

No. 5. Chlorophyll

Colors nettle leaves green color. In industry, it acts as a pigment, and in medicine it is used to enhance the production of blood cells and accelerate tissue regeneration. Infusions on this plant accelerate wound healing, increase muscle tone, clear the airways of mucus, and are directly involved in cell division.

No. 6. group vitaminsB

Nettle contains many B-group vitamins, their medicinal properties and contraindications have been studied extensively. These substances are important for the nervous system, brain, heart muscle, endocrine system. B Vitamins Accelerate Everything metabolic processes in the body, take part in the production of red blood cells, remove toxins from cells and normalize hormonal levels.

No. 7. Phytoncides

Responsible for the destruction of pathogenic microorganisms. Accelerate the healing of burns and purulent skin lesions. Disinfect the oral cavity, eliminate bleeding gums and carry out the prevention of caries.

No. 8. VitaminK

Needed to increase blood coagulation. It is directly involved in protein synthesis, enhances the absorption of calcium. Responsible for the correct functioning of the heart muscle, improves the pulse, treats tachycardia and arrhythmia. Cleans the lungs, promotes the production of antibodies that suppress the action of free radicals.

No. 9. Carotene

An antioxidant that cleanses tissues of poisons of various nature. Strengthens hair from the inside, makes nails denser, increases skin elasticity. Strengthens the visual muscles, lubricates the eyeball and prevents the appearance of dry eye syndrome. The herb contains more carotene than sea buckthorn or carrots.

No. 10. Quercetin

Nettle contains quercetin, which is good for the kidneys. Medicinal properties and contraindications in this matter have been studied thoroughly. In the absence of large stones, quercetin will cleanse the urinary system, eliminating fine sand and formations up to 0.3 cm in size.

No. 11. organic acids

Participate in the production of enzymes that enhance the activity of the digestive system. Completely suppress the fermentation of food in the intestines, relieving a person of congestion and abdominal pain. Acids enhance the absorption of nutrients by the walls of the gastrointestinal tract. They also have a choleretic effect, cleansing the liver and restoring its work.

No. 12. Amino acids

Required for bone building and protein synthesis. Amino acids are not produced in the body in all their diversity, so it is necessary to ensure their intake from the outside. They cleanse the blood channels of cholesterol, transform the carbohydrates received from food into energy and accelerate muscle growth.

No. 13. Secretin

It is a hormone that enhances insulin production. Herbal remedies reduce the concentration of glucose in the blood, stabilize blood pressure, have long been used in the treatment of diabetes.

No. 14. Minerals

Nettle concentrates many macro- and microelements. Considering the beneficial properties and contraindications of the plant, one cannot help but touch upon the importance of minerals for humans. The following are considered especially valuable: calcium, iodine, potassium, iron, manganese, boron, copper, phosphorus. Of course, this is not the whole list, but we have listed the most significant, taking part in absolutely all processes in the body.

Important!

From all of the above, we can conclude that nettle has a number of useful properties. In particular, she:

  • fights with beriberi;
  • cleanses and restores the liver;
  • cleans the kidneys;
  • enhances insulin production;
  • increases hemoglobin;
  • reduces the risk of heart disease;
  • cleanses the blood and improves its composition;
  • relieves pain during menstruation;
  • treats diabetes;
  • used to eliminate problems with the gastrointestinal tract;
  • increases the protective functions of the body;
  • accelerates the set of muscle mass;
  • restores the hormonal environment;
  • promotes weight loss;
  • conducts a complete detoxification (purification of toxins, toxins, etc.);
  • suppresses internal inflammation;
  • used to improve appearance.

Nettle has many more useful properties, but contraindications must be considered. Before using it for therapeutic purposes, it is better to take tests and consult a specialist.

The healing properties of nettle for women

With some pathological phenomena, women will benefit from taking funds on nettles.

No. 1. With uterine myoma

The active substances in the composition of the plant close the blood flow to the tumor, thereby resolving it. Large knots cannot be destroyed, but grass can cope with small neoplasms. Doctors advise taking a decoction if fibroids are accompanied by severe bleeding. The tool is prepared from 0.2 liters. water, 1 tbsp. l. roots and 1 tbsp. l. nettle seeds. Boil the composition until half evaporated, filter. Take 3 tbsp. l. 4 times a day for 20 days. Then take a break for a month, resume therapy.

No. 2. With heavy menstruation

Nettle restores blood loss and hemoglobin levels, in this matter, the medicinal properties and contraindications have been fully studied. It will be useful for women to know that nettle juice is used to increase the contraction of the uterus and accelerate its cleansing. To get juice, fresh leaves must be passed through a blender and squeezed with gauze. Throughout the entire period of menstruation, consume 1 tsp 3 times a day.

Number 3. For poor lactation

If the newly-born mother is faced with poor milk production, nettle tea will help increase lactation. It is sold in pharmacies in the form of ready-made sachets, but you can also brew the herb in a teapot. Most importantly, do not make the tea highly concentrated. Such a drink will benefit if taken in courses. First, drink nettle tea for a week, then another week - on raspberry leaves, then drink fennel tea for the next 7 days.

The healing properties of nettle for men

Nettle has a positive effect on the genitourinary system of men. Its unique medicinal properties and contraindications in a minimum amount have a beneficial effect on potency. Vessels come into general tone, increasing erection. Regular intake of the plant has a general strengthening effect, normalizing hormonal levels and improving blood composition.

No. 1. Treatment of urinary disorders

Use a suitable container and combine 1 liter in it. boiling water, 1 tbsp. l. nettle leaves. Insist a third of an hour. Strain and take 70 ml. everyday. The infusion increases metabolic processes and stabilizes the activity of the organs of the reproductive system.

No. 2. Potency improvement

Mix 0.5 l. grape port with 10 tsp. finely chopped leaves of the plant. Simmer the ingredients over low heat for a few minutes. Filter after cooling. Take 1 tbsp. l. 3 times a day.

Number 3. Increased erection

Combine red wine, honey and nettle seeds in equal proportions. Stir the mass. Consume 2 tsp. a third of an hour before a meal. A noticeable result appears in just a few days.

No. 4. Treatment of prostate adenoma

Grind 50 gr. fresh leaves and roots of the plant, pour 200 ml. boiling water. Boil for a few minutes over low heat. Wait for cooling, strain. Take 200 ml. after waking up and before bed. Drink a warm drink for 2 months.

Treatment of diseases with nettle

Nettle in folk medicine is very much in demand. Its medicinal properties and contraindications are obvious. Therefore, the plant is used to combat a wide variety of diseases.

No. 1. Liver disease

To eliminate or prevent liver pathology, pour 300 ml. steep boiling water 2 tbsp. l. dry collection of plants. Boil the composition over low heat for a quarter of an hour. Insist until completely cooled. Strain. Drink 100 ml. half an hour before each meal.

No. 2. Joint pain

For joint pain, use a small glass jar, fill it with fresh nettle leaves. It is not necessary to tamp raw materials. Pour in vodka to the brim. Close the lid and infuse for 2 weeks in a dark place. Shake regularly. Use the finished product every time before going to bed as compresses and rubbing.

Number 3. Gastritis and stomach ulcer

Nettle leaves have unusual healing properties and minimal contraindications. With the help of raw materials, gastritis and ulcers can be treated. Mix 300 ml. boiling water and 1 tbsp. l. fresh nettle leaves. Simmer in a water bath for about 12 minutes. Wait for cooling. Take a decoction of 1 tbsp. l. before meals 3-4 times a day.

No. 4. Dandruff

To eliminate dandruff, pour 40 gr. fresh grass 0.5 l. water. Send the composition to boil over low heat for about 5 minutes. Wait for it to cool down to an acceptable temperature. Each time, rinse the curls with a ready-made decoction after washing your hair with shampoo.

No. 5. Heel spur

Nettle is popular in folk medicine due to its medicinal properties and contraindications in a minimal amount. Heel spurs can be treated with baths. To do this, pour into a small bowl 2 tbsp. l. starch and the same amount of dried leaves of the plant. Pour in 2 liters. hot water. Take a bath for a quarter of an hour. Dry your feet and apply a nourishing cream.

No. 6. Nervous diseases

If you have an unstable nervous system, it is recommended to drink the infusion. Wash and remove excess moisture from young nettle shoots. Finely chop the raw material and place in a small glass jar. Pour in cool water. Stretch gauze over the top. Keep insisting all night. Take 100 ml. three times a day.

No. 7. low immunity

In order to increase immunity, use a suitable container, mix rosehips, nettles and raisins in equal proportions in it. Take 2 tbsp. l. mixture and mix with 0.5 l. boiling water. Simmer on the steam bath for another 12 minutes. Insist 4 hours. Strain and take 120 ml. up to 4 times a day.

No. 8. Low hemoglobin

Nettle is used to increase hemoglobin levels and improve blood composition in general. The medicinal properties and contraindications of the plant have been studied repeatedly. Therefore, it is worth using simple recipe. Pour in 300 ml. boiling water 1 tbsp. l. dry collection of nettles. Leave for a few hours. Take 4 tbsp per day. l.

No. 9. Radiculitis

Nettle is often used externally to treat sciatica. To do this, wash and dry the leaves, chop. Place the raw material in a glass jar with a volume of 0.5 liters. Pour in vodka up to the neck. Keep the product in a dark and cool place for at least 20 days. Then every time before going to bed, rub the affected area.

Nettle contraindications

1. It is forbidden to take the plant inside if there is an individual intolerance or an allergic reaction. It has nothing to do with outdoor use. Use baths, lotions for face and hair.

2. If problems with blood clotting are identified, it is not recommended to take funds based on extracts of fresh nettle.

3. Any medicines with a plant are contraindicated in hypertension, varicose veins, atherosclerosis and thrombophlebitis. Sometimes a health course is prescribed, but only under the supervision of a doctor.

4. Any preparations with nettle are strictly prohibited for consumption while carrying a baby. The problem is that the tone of the uterus rises, a miscarriage can occur.

5. Relative contraindications include the presence of heart and kidney failure, any types of tumors. As an exception, a specialist may prescribe an appointment.

Nettle, like all plants, has certain medicinal properties and contraindications. However, there are still more positive qualities. With the correct use of raw materials, quite serious pathologies can be defeated. If necessary, coordinate the wellness course with your doctor.