Description
Botanical name: Urtica Dioica
Urtica dioica, commonly known as stinging nettle, is a perennial plant in the Urticaceae family. The plant is easily recognised by its serrated leaves and the fine stinging hairs (trichomes) that cover them. When touched, these hairs inject chemicals like histamine into the skin, causing a stinging sensation. Despite its sting, Urtica dioica has been used in traditional medicine for centuries to treat a variety of conditions, including arthritis, back pain, and as a diuretic to help the body eliminate excess fluid.
In addition to its medicinal uses, stinging nettle is also valued for its nutritional content. The leaves are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like iron, calcium, and magnesium. They can be consumed in teas, soups, or as a cooked vegetable, once the stinging hairs are neutralised by boiling or drying. Due to its long history in herbal medicine and its nutritional benefits, stinging nettle remains a popular plant in both modern and traditional practices.
