Nettle (Urtica dioica) is one of the plants that have been an essential ingredient of herbal medicine since ancient times.
In ancient Egypt, nettle was used to treat arthritis and back pain, while Roman troops ate it to protect against the cold.
The plant's scientific name, Urtica dioica, comes from the Latin word uro, which means "burn" because its leaves, as it is known, cause a temporary burning sensation upon contact.
However, once it is processed - cooked, dried - it can be safely consumed. Studies link it to some potential health benefits.
Here are 6 proven nettle benefits.
1. Contains Many Nutrients
Roots and leaves provide a wide range of nutrients. These include:
- Vitamins: Vitamins A, C, K as well as vitamin B complex.
- Metals: Calcium, Iron, Magnesium, Phosphorus, Potassium and Sodium
- Fats: Linoleic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid and oleic acid
- Amino acids
- Polyphenols: Caffeic acid and other flavonoids
- Other substances: B-carotene, lutein and other carotenoids
Many of the above elements have antioxidant activity in our body. Antioxidants are molecules that help protect your cells from damage by free radicals. The damage caused by free radicals is linked to aging, but also to cancer and other harmful diseases.
2. Reduces Inflammation
Inflammation is a way of defense that our body develops to fight infections. However, chronic inflammation can cause significant damage.
Nettle contains a variety of ingredients that can help reduce inflammation.
In studies done, nettle has been shown to reduce the levels of multiple inflammatory hormones by interfering with their production. The application of nettle cream or the consumption of nettle products seems to relieve inflammatory conditions, such as arthritis.
For example, in a study of 27 people, applying nettle cream to areas with arthritis significantly reduced pain compared to placebo therapy.
In another study, taking a supplement containing nettle extracts significantly reduced the pain of arthritis. In addition, participants felt that they could reduce the dose of anti-inflammatory pain relievers because of this capsule.
However, we must bear in mind that more studies are needed to adequately document the beneficial properties of nettles, as they themselves note.
3. Can treat enlarged prostate symptoms
An enlarged prostate is usually called benign prostatic hyperplasia. Scientists aren't sure what causes it.
Interestingly, some studies show that nettle can help treat the prostate.
Studies in people with prostate cancer show that nettle extracts can help treat short- and long-term urinary problems - without side effects.
However, it is not yet clear how effective the nettle is compared to conventional treatments.
4. May lower blood pressure
High blood pressure is a serious health concern. It is linked to heart disease and strokes, which are among the leading causes of death worldwide.
Nettle is traditionally used to treat high blood pressure. Studies have shown that it can help lower blood pressure in a variety of ways.
It can stimulate the production of nitric oxide, which acts as a vasodilator. Vasodilators relax your blood vessel muscles.
In addition, the nettle has compounds that can act as calcium channel blockers, which relax your heart by reducing the force of contractions.
In any case, scientists emphasize the need for further research to further establish the beneficial properties of nettle, and this is something we must bear in mind. That is why we should not underestimate the conventional treatments and the advice of the treating physicians.
For reliable, high quality nettle products, see here: www.Itshealthy.store.gr
By Dr Angel,
Aggeliki Koskeridou
Holistic Doctor – Counseling Psychotherapist
Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine
MSc Health Psychology
insta: dr_aggelikikoskeridou_official
Sources:
Gohari A, Noorafshan A et al, (2018), Utrica Dioica Distillate Regenerates Pacreatic Beta Cells in Streptrozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats. Pubmed.gov, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29749986.
Jacquet A, Girodet PO et al, Phytalgic, a food supplement, vs placebo in patients with knee or hip osteoarthritis: a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial, Pubmed.gov, https: //www.ncbi.nlm .n
