Latin Name
Urtica dioica

General Description
Notorious for the stinging needles along its leaves, nettle can be safely ingested when the irritant is tamed by boiling or drying. A tonic made from the leaves and stems is said to strengthen the body. Herbalists consider nettle a diuretic capable of removing toxins, and its iron and vitamin C may help prevent anemia. Nettle has an erect stem and serrated, dark-green, heart-shaped leaves.

Target Ailments
Taken internally for:

• Arthritis, gout, hay fever, premenstrual syndrome, vaginal yeast infections, excessive menstrual flow, hemorrhoids,eczema, diarrhea and chronic cystitis.

Used internally only under the supervision of a physician for:

• High blood pressure and congestive heart failure.

Preparations
Over the counter:
Nettle is available as tinctures, capsules and dried leaves and stems.

At home:
Tea: 1 to 2 tsp. dried herb steeped in 1 cup boiling water for 10 minutes.
Juice: 2 tsp. juice squeezed from nettle added to a fresh vegetable or fruit drink.
Combinations: Nettle combines well with figwort and burdock to treat eczema; taken orally as juice or tea.

Special Information

• WARNING: Do not use uncooked nettle. To do so may cause kidney damage and other symptoms of poisoning.
  
• WARNING: Nettle is a diuretic, and it may therefore remove potassium from the body. If you use it frequently, eat foods high in potassium, such as bananas and fresh vegetables.
  
• Do not give nettle to children younger than 2 years old.
  
• To harvest, wear gloves, long sleeves, and long pants to avoid nettle`s sting.