How to Make Stinging Nettle Tea

Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica) is a plant that grows in many parts of the world, including North America, Europe, and Asia. Despite its reputation for being a painful plant to touch, stinging nettle has been used for centuries as a medicinal herb, food, and fiber source.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the nutritional value, health benefits, and potential side effects of stinging nettle, backed by scientific research.

Nutrition Facts

Stinging nettle is a nutrient-dense plant that contains a wide range of vitamins, minerals, and bioactive compounds. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Nutrient Database, 100 grams of raw stinging nettle leaves contain:

• Calories: 43
• Protein: 2.71 grams
• Carbohydrates: 6.86 grams
• Fiber: 2.4 grams
• Fat: 0.1 grams
• Vitamin A: 5,440 IU
• Vitamin C: 33 mg
• Vitamin K: 491.3 mcg
• Calcium: 481 mg
• Iron: 1.46 mg
• Magnesium: 57 mg
• Potassium: 334 mg

In addition to these essential nutrients, stinging nettle contains several bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, lignans, and polysaccharides, which have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune-boosting properties.

Health Benefits

1. Relieves Symptoms of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a common condition that affects older men, causing an enlarged prostate gland that can cause urinary problems. According to a systematic review and meta-analysis published in the journal Phytomedicine, stinging nettle root extract can help alleviate symptoms of BPH, such as urinary frequency, urgency, and nighttime urination.

2. Lowers Blood Pressure

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease. According to a study published in the Journal of Translational Medicine, stinging nettle leaf extract can help lower blood pressure in people with hypertension, possibly due to its vasodilatory and diuretic effects.

3. Reduces Inflammation

Chronic inflammation is a common underlying factor in many chronic diseases, such as arthritis, heart disease, and cancer. According to a review published in the journal Molecules, stinging nettle extracts and compounds have anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce inflammation in the body.

4. Boosts Immune Function

Stinging nettle contains several immune-boosting compounds, such as polysaccharides and lectins, which have been shown to stimulate the immune system and enhance the production of white blood cells. According to a study published in the journal BMC Immunology, stinging nettle extracts can increase the activity of natural killer cells, which play a critical role in fighting viral infections and cancer.

Side Effects

Stinging nettle is generally considered safe when consumed in food or supplement form, but it can cause mild to moderate side effects in some people, especially when applied topically to the skin.

Common side effects include:

• Skin irritation and rash (when touched)
• Upset stomach
• Diarrhea
• Mild allergic reactions (in rare cases)

People who are pregnant or breastfeeding, have low blood pressure, or take medications that affect blood clotting should avoid stinging nettle supplements.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog post is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice or a substitute for professional medical care. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your diet or lifestyle, especially if you have a pre-existing medical condition, are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medication

Note: Please consult your doctor before taking any herbal teas.

Nettle Leaf Tea

Ingredients:
1 teaspoon dried nettle leaf
8 oz. hot, boiled water
Instructions:
Prepare the Tea:
Place 1 teaspoon of dried nettle leaf in a jug.
Add Hot Water:
Pour 8 oz. of hot, boiled water over the nettle leaf.
Steep the Tea:
Allow the tea to steep for 10 minutes.
Strain and Serve:
Strain the tea and enjoy.
Enjoy your nettle leaf tea in the morning for energy and vitality. If you suffer from arthritis, you can drink up to 3 cups a day.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog post is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice or a substitute for professional medical care. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your diet or lifestyle, especially if you have a pre-existing medical condition, are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medication

Print the Recipe Here