Nettle Leaf is also called Urtica dioica. It is a herbaceous perennial flowering plant in the family Urticaceae. Nettle Leaf is known for the stinging hairs that grow on the stems and leaves. These leaves can be used as a dry leaf, freeze-dried, or extracted into tablets, juices, and teas. It is said as a powerful blood purifier that drives out toxins from the body. Which makes it a perfect addition to one’s daily routine to stay healthy.
Health Benefits of Nettle Leaf
1. Lower Blood Pressure
High blood pressure can put one at risk like heart disease and strokes. According to research nettle was traditionally used to treat high blood pressure. As per studies, nettle can stimulate nitric oxide production. That acts as a vasodilator. Vasodilators relax the muscles of your blood vessels, helping them widen. These leaves even contain compounds that can act as calcium channel blockers. That relaxes the heart by reducing the force of contractions.
2. Reduces stress and tension
Nettle is loaded with iron and vitamin C. That improves the body’s absorption of iron, which helps in alleviating anemia and fatigue. These leaves even contain potassium. It is a mineral that reduces tension in arteries and blood vessels. However, it lowers the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
3. Helps against allergies
Consuming nettle tea can help to reduce the body’s response to allergens by binding with the body’s histamine receptors. Histamine is a chemical the immune system releases. It’s mainly known for its role in causing allergy symptoms. Nettle tea is used to help in the prevention of inflammation of the mucous membrane in the nose. Nettle even helps people suffering from asthma.
4. Reduce gastrointestinal diseases
Nettle powder can promote healthy digestion. It helps with stomach problems such as diarrhea, constipation, and gastrointestinal disease. The nettle powder is usually consumed in the form of teas. Nettle even helps in breaking down kidney stones and helps in helping kidney problems. It destroys intestinal worms or parasites.
5. Have anti-inflammatory qualities
The anti-inflammatory property affects a number of key receptors and enzymes in allergic reactions. It prevents hay fever. The leaves of the plant have histamine. That can be counterproductive in allergy treatment. It can also minimize skin problems.
6. Relieves menopausal symptoms
According to research consuming nettle tea can relieve menopausal symptoms. It even helps with bloating and menstrual cramps.
7. Strengthens the bones
Nettle is loaded with proteins, flavonoids, amino acids, and bone-building minerals such as calcium, silicon, zinc, iron, magnesium, and potassium. According to research vitamins and minerals present in the nettle are capable and can support bone health protection.
Nutritional Value of Nettle Leaf
Nettle leaves and roots contain a wide variety of nutrients such as:
- Vitamins: Vitamins A, C, and K, as well as several B vitamins.
- Fats: Linoleic acid,
linolenic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid and oleic acid. - Minerals: Calcium, iron,
magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and sodium. - Polyphenols: Kaempferol,
quercetin, caffeic acid, coumarins, and other flavonoids. - Amino acids: All of the essential amino acids.
- Pigments: Beta-carotene, lutein,
luteoxanthin, and other carotenoids.