Widely used to treat rheumatism and poor circulation, but
also cures bronchitis, prevents scurvy, reduces the risk of hemorrhage,
neuralgia, scrofula, sore throat, sore mouth, sciatica, vaginal yeast
infections, anemia, increases milk flow for nursing mothers, lowers blood
sugar, joint aches, neuralgia, gout, first stages of dropsy, bee stings,
whooping cough, expel worms, and dispels melancholia.
The leaves may be boiled and then eaten like any green vegetable, or else
used for an infusion. A decoction may also be made from the root, this is
good for dissolving renal (kidney) stones and other internal obstructions.
Old herbals say that nettles are useful in weight-reducing diets. Treats
tuberculosis, anemia, clorosis, rickets, scrofula, lymphatic problems. A
good spring tonic. Boiled leaves applied externally will stop bleeding
almost immediately. Externally applied for eczema.
A tincture made of the seeds is recommended for goiter and low thyroid. In
raising the thyroid function, it effectively reduces the associated obesity.
The warm tea is used for asthma, hay fever, allergies, colds, fever, grippe,
flu, mucous condition of the lungs, pleurisy, leprosy, diarrhea,
cholecystitis, dysentery, hemorrhoids, various hemorrhages, scorbutic
affections, and mucous in the colon in adults.
Boiling the entire plant in a mixture of vinegar and water, then adding eau
de cologne was supposed to produce a good hair lotion. Combing the hair with
expressed nettle juice was supposed to stimulate hair growth, bring back the
natural color of the hair. Or dip fingers in and thoroughly massage the
scalp and it will cure dandruff.
Pulped nettle leaves make a marvelous compress and bring cooling relief when
inflammation is present.
Warning
Do not eat uncooked plants, especially old plants
uncooked; they can produce kidney damage and symptoms of poisoning.
Handle the plants with care.
The bristly hairs of the nettle plant act like a tiny hypodermic needles,
injecting an irritant substance under the skin when touched: handle with
care. |
Nettle
