Nettle is one of those plants that have multiple purposes. It is used in human nutrition, but also for animal nutrition, and its healing properties have been known since ancient times. Here's what heals.
Nettle, Latin name Urtica dioica, is a wild edible plant, which grows in neglected places, very often as a weed. It is a herbaceous perennial plant, which is widespread in Europe, Asia, Africa, and North America.
The most recognizable characteristic of this plant are the flowers and leaves covered with bulbs, with inconspicuous green flowers and heart-shaped leaves, and it is one of the most appreciated medicinal plants. The ancient Greeks and Egyptians used nettle for massage against rheumatic pains and arthritis, and the Romans as food and medicine. It is interesting that people used it to make fabrics in the Bronze Age. It was used for the same purpose for German uniforms in World War I.
Nettle leaf and root are most typically used for food purposes, while in the industry of dye production, the root has found application for obtaining yellow color. It is most important to note that nettle contains extremely large amounts of iron. The richness of this mineral makes it the best natural remedy against anemia, reduces the tendency to bleed, alleviates excessive bleeding and purifies the blood. I
n addition to iron, other minerals that nettle contains are: calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and silicon. It is richest in vitamin C, but since it is not consumed in fresh form, because it can cause problems with the digestive system, a lot of this vitamin is lost by heat treatment. It is recommended to blanch the leaves, losing less of this precious vitamin, and at the same time destroying the burning fibers.
In addition to vitamin C, nettle contains a significant amount of vitamin: A, B2, B5 and K. The exceptional composition of nettle also includes tannins, carotene, lecithin and numerous amino acids, proteins and carbohydrates, which makes it a cure for many diseases. While also restoring energy and strength to the organism and raises the defense power of the immune system. It has antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, diuretic properties, reduces pain and stops bleeding.
By accelerating the excretion of fluids from the body, it also affects the regulation of blood pressure. It stimulates the work of the liver and pancreas, helps with oral infections (gingivitis and angina), as well as diseases such as eczema, acne and excessive hair loss. Nettle contributes to the regulation of blood sugar levels, helps with insomnia and nervousness.
In the period after winter, when spring exhaustion and fatigue occur, nettle is great for the body's recovery. In the spring, leaves and tops or complete young plants with stems are collected, and they are traditionally picked on Good Thursday and Good Friday.
Also in the spring, but also in the fall, the roots of this plant are collected, and in August the seeds. Nettle tea is recommended, which is prepared by pouring a tablespoon of well-washed and finely chopped nettles with 200 ml of boiling water and letting it stand for a few minutes. Strain the tea and drink it while it is lukewarm and in small sips. Nettle also cleanses the blood, lowers cholesterol and triglycerides and improves blood counts. You should consume it for 6 months, but the picture definitely improves after a month.
In addition to nettle tea, many delicious dishes can be made, such as soups, pies, rolls, salads, and the like. This precious and cheap medicine, with a wide beneficial effect, should be on our tables as often as possible.
#health #alternative #medicine #nettle #plant #simple #blog #foodblog #foodblogger #coffeetimelena #foodlover #homemade
Use the contact form for questions or advice.
I would be happy if you would comment on my recipes and put like.
Comments