› Health benefits
Stinging nettle contains astringent, anti-inflammatory, diuretic and tonic properties. It has been used medicinally to treat arthritis, eczema and allergies, and to promote lactation, boost the immune system and nourish the blood.
› How much?
The Arthritis Foundation suggests taking up to 1,300 mg of stinging nettle as a tea, capsule, tablet, tincture or extract. Otherwise, people can take 1–4 mg per day as a tincture, or they can apply creams directly to the skin.
Be sure to follow relevant directions on product labels, and consult your pharmacist, physician or other healthcare professional before using.
› Dietary supplements
Tea made from the leaves has been used to treat hay fever, diabetes, gout, and arthritis, and fresh stinging leaves are sometimes applied to arthritic joints in a process known as urtification*, which is said to stimulate blood flow. Topical creams have also been developed for joint pain and various skin ailments, including eczema and dandruff.
* Urtification refers to the flogging of the body with the fresh nettle plant. The name urtification comes from the latin name of nettles, Urtica dioica.
Source: The Arthritis Foundation and National Institutes of Health
Please consult your health care provider before making changes to your vitamin/supplement regimen.
Comments