Invoked in charms, relied on in illness, called upon in distress, Stinging Nettle (Urtica dioica, Urtica urens) is a powerful plant. Healers and wise women consider it a reliable friend, and one of the best herbs for menopause and hormonal health. It may appear ordinary but anyone who’s accidentally stumbled upon a harmless looking patch knows the intensity of its sting. Nettle is prized for its nourishing and restorative properties, its support of joint and skin health, and even its ability to rehydrate vaginal tissue! It can support and may even heal bleeding disorders, arthritis, and inflammation. It’s known as a nervine, which means it’s a tonic for the nervous system. High in potassium and iron with a fresh taste like spinach, there are so many historical and modern uses for this weedy plant.
There are so many ways to incorporate nettles into your life. Here are a few simple ideas:
Tincture: https://www.mountainroseherbs.com/pr…/nettle-extract/profile
Capsules: https://www.mountainroseherbs.com/…/nettle-leaf-cap…/profile
Soup: http://www.simplyrecipes.com/recipes/nettle_soup/
Pesto: http://honest-food.net/forag…/greens-and-herbs/nettle-pesto/
General herbal wisdom: Susun Weed’s book or website http://www.susunweed.com
An important caution: Do not consume nettles after they’ve flowered as they can be toxic!