Stinging nettle, or urtica dioica, is a perennial flowering plant that has been used medicinally for ages, dating back as far as Ancient Greece. Today, stinging nettle can be found all over the world, but its origins are in the colder regions of Europe and Asia. The plant usually grows between two to four feet high and blooms from June to September. It grows best in nitrogen-rich soil, has heart-shaped leaves, and produces yellow or pink flowers.

While best known for the stinging reaction that occurs when the skin comes into contact with the fine hairs located on its leaves and stems, when processed and used medicinally, stinging nettle has a number of helpful health benefits, according to the Department of Dermatology at the Penn State University College of Medicine.

Most stinging nettle products are made from the stem and leaves, but the roots also have pharmacological qualities. The herb has anti-inflammatory qualities that can affect treatment of many health issues. The aboveground parts have typically aided in allergy relief and other breathing-related problems. The roots are able to provide relief for urinary disorders and enlarged prostate as well.

5 Benefits of Stinging Nettle

Despite its reputation for pain, stinging nettle is used to help a number of ailments. Studies have shown stinging nettle has antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-ulcer, astringent and analgesic capabilities.

The most proven health benefits of using stinging nettle help with the following:

1. Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) and Urinary Issues

2. Osteoarthritis and Joint Pain3. Hay Fever

3. Hay Fever

4. Bleeding

5. Eczema

More research is needed, but stinging nettle is also said to:

- Promote lactation

- Stimulate hair growth

- Help control blood sugar in patients with diabetes

- Reduce bleeding connected to gingivitis

- Treat disorders of the kidneys and urinary tract

- Provide relief from water retention

- Prevent or treat diarrhea

- Decrease menstrual flow

- Provide asthma relief

- Heal wounds

- Treat hemorrhoids

- Stimulate contractions in pregnant women

- Treat insect bites

- Treat tendonitis

- Treat anemia

Uses and preperation:

Commonly the dried leaf and/or dried root is used as a tea, tincture or powdered and encapsulated.