Health Benefits of Stinging Nettle

Nettle is one of my favourite herbs, not only because it is loaded with important vitamins and minerals, but it is incredibly versatile and a safe herb for the whole family.

Stinging nettles actually gets its name from the little hairs found on its leaves and stems. If you brush up against the plant in a forest, you’ll know because those little hairs may leave you with a rash. Once harvested, nettle loses its sting and you’re left with an incredible source of nutrients.

Often used by herbalist for its ability to support the urinary tract, liver, digestive tract, reproductive system, and respiratory system it is also used to support full body health. Nettle is a good source of vitamins A, C and E as well as B1, B2, B3 and B5. It is rich in protein, calcium, iron, folate, potassium, magnesium, manganese, phosphorous, selenium and zinc. On top of that it is useful for nourishing the adrenals, which impact stressors and overall health. Herbalists have also used nettles to ease constipation and diarrhoea, as well as relief from seasonal allergies.

Aside from adding this beautiful herb to regular daily life, it is a wonderful supportive herb to take through pregnancy and postpartum. I personally used this herb to nourish myself and keep my iron up through both my pregnancies & postpartum periods. Dr. Aviva Romm has a great pregnancy tea recipe in her book The Natural Pregnancy Book.

For all of these reasons we’ve chosen organic nettle as a key ingredient in our Queen of Greens powder for a quick and easy way to enjoy the many health benefits of this beautiful herb.