Urtica dioica is commonly known at stinging nettles, or nettles. It is an herb that I utilize almost every day in my practice. Stinging nettles can be consumed. I know my Nanny used to put it in the Sunday salad without any of us knowing us. It is a good source of protein and fiber in addition to many vitamins and minerals. Some of the vitamins that are contained in nettles are Vitamin A, C, and K. In addition, there is manganese, potassium, iron, and calcium in this plant. One of the antioxidants contained in nettles are carotenoids.
You might think nettles is only great for allergies and sinusitis. However there is good research on nettles for diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and osteoarthritis as well as benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH). I utilize both nettle root and nettle leaf for BPH.
Anytime you think about an herb, know that these herbs are medicines. Herbs have been used for thousands of years with excellent results. Herbs are not alternative medicine – herbs are the real medicine.
Until tomorrow...