Eat Stinging Nettles

Nettle Benefits:

Stinging Nettles contain vitamins C and K, B vitamins, as well as minerals like calcium, magnesium and iron, to name a few. It also has amino acids and antioxidants, which may help fight free radicals. Here are a few more health benefits you can get from this plant.

 1- Helps detoxify the body. Nettle is a diuretic, which means that it helps in flushing out harmful chemicals and excess liquids from the body. This herb has also been called a “spring tonic,” which is a substance intended to cleanse the body of toxins.⁵

 2- Promotes healthy blood circulation and cardiovascular health. Nettle contains iron and vitamin C. Vitamin C improves the body’s absorption of iron,⁶ which aids in alleviating anemia and fatigue.⁷ This herb also contains a considerable amount of potassium, a mineral that reduces tension in your arteries and blood vessels, lowering your risk for strokes.⁸

3- Alleviates allergic reactions. While physical contact with the nettle leaf can cause allergic reactions, the ingestion of nettle tea is known to help dampen the body’s response to allergens by binding with the body’s histamine receptors. It can aid in the prevention of rhinitis, or the inflammation of the mucous membrane in the nose. Drinking a cup of nettle tea daily can reduce the symptoms of seasonal hay fever.

4- Reduces arthritis pain. The antioxidant properties of the nettle plant have been observed to help minimize inflammation. It can be used topically to help relieve joint pain as well.

*I have posted 2 Stinging Nettles recipes on my site, one for a delicious soup and another, a lovely tea.

Source: Dr. Mercola