Nettle(Urtica dioica)

The Common Nettle is familiar to most people with its heart-shaped, finely-toothed leaves, and its long clusters of green flowers. The whole plant is covered in fine, downy hairs, and also with the more formidable stinging hairs. It is because of the irritating nature of its sting that its name is derived from the Latin urere meaning "to burn". Oddly, the juice of the nettle itself, as well as the better know juice of the Dock plant, will provide relief to the nettle's sting.

The fibres which can be extracted from the plant, are very similar to those of hemp or flax. In earlier times, nettle has been used for making cloth from the very fine down to coarser material such as sailcloth and sacking.

Nettle has long been used for culinary purposes and was valued as a highly nutritious vegetable, particularly in spring before the leaves become gritty. In recent times, the benefits of nettle has been proved as analysis proves it to be rich in vitamins and iron. In the 17th century nettle porridge was a popular dish in England, whilst nettle soup and nettle pudding were common in Scotland. Nettle beer was a country drink made from nettle-tops, dandelions, goosegrass and ginger. It was taken as a remedy for gouty or rheumatic pains, or simply for pleasure. In many country villages the leaves were laid under cream cheese. Nettles were often used in London market gardens for packing plums and other fruit with bloom on them. 

Nettles were commonly used as a hair conditioner in the 19th century and are still known for that today. A hair tonic is made from a handful of young nettles simmered in 1 litre of water for 2 hours and then strained and cooled. This lotion when applied is said to prevent the hair falling out and to make it soft and glossy. 

Medicinal Use:

The nutritious properties of nettle account for the fact that it has been used for centuries as a nourishing tonic for convalescence, debility and anaemia.  The diuretic properties help to stimulate the expulsion of toxins via the urinary tract. As a result, nettles help to remove toxins from the body, which makes them a useful remedy in conditions such as arthritis and gout, as well as skin conditions such as eczema.  Nettles have astringent properties which help to check bleeding. An infusion of the fresh herb can be used to staunch bleeding from cuts, haemorrhoids and nosebleeds. Nettles have anti-allergy properties which make it suitable for the relief of conditions such as asthma and hayfever.