Herbs & Botanicals

Product Description

Botanical Name: Urtica dioica

Plant Family: Urticaceae (Nettle family)

Botanical Description:
Urtica dioica, commonly known as nettle, is a perennial flowering plant native to Europe, Asia, North Africa, and North America. It belongs to the Urticaceae family and is characterized by its serrated leaves and stinging hairs that release irritants upon contact with the skin. Nettle typically grows in moist, nitrogen-rich soil and can reach heights of up to 1-2 meters. The leaves of nettle are opposite, ovate to lanceolate in shape, and have serrated margins. The stems and leaves are covered in small, fine hairs that are responsible for the plant's stinging sensation. Nettle produces small, greenish-white flowers arranged in dense clusters that bloom in the spring and summer. Despite its stinging hairs, nettle is valued for its nutritious leaves and has been used for centuries as a culinary and medicinal herb.

Introduction:
Nettle has a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine, dating back to ancient times. It has been revered for its myriad of potential health benefits and valued for its rich nutritional content and phytochemicals. It is used internally and externally.

Preparations:
Tea: Prepare nettle leaf tea by steeping dried nettle leaves in hot water for 5-10 minutes. Strain the infusion and drink it. Nettle tea may be consumed warm or chilled and sweetened with honey if desired.
Tincture: Prepare a nettle tincture by macerating dried nettle leaves in alcohol (such as vodka or brandy) for several weeks. Strain the tincture and store it in a dark glass bottle. Take the tincture orally by diluting it in water or juice according to the dosage instructions provided on the product label or by a qualified herbalist.
Capsules: Nettle capsules or tablets are available for convenient consumption. Follow the dosage instructions provided on the product label or consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner for appropriate dosing.