We've been looking into stinging nettles for a few months now, and the benefits of that nasty weed - excuse me, herb - keep growing. Who knew?! Many believe that nettles also contain health benefits and have been used in natural medicine for centuries.
According to Mother Earth News, a tea made from dried nettle leaves is full of nutrients. It is thought to - among other things - help relieve pain and inflammation. There is also a claim that it helps to lower blood sugar. Of course, as with anything you read online, you should consult your doctor before trying anything for a medicinal purpose.
Just because something is natural doesn't mean it's safe for everyone all the time. Everyday Health includes a warning against ingesting nettles for women who are pregnant. And for anyone, there are the risks of side effects such as sweating, skin irritation, and stomach discomfort.
Style Craze says that nettles are also valuable as topicals. They claim it has benefits for people dealing with ache and burns when used on the skin. They also claim that treating hair with an extract made from nettles will encourage regrowth of thinning hair.
As with anything you read on the internet, have a healthy dose of caution and skepticism, even with all-natural things like nettles. Very Well Health gives some good advice in that area. Remember that natural and plant-based do not automatically make things good for you. After all ... hemlock is a natural plant, and look what it did to Socrates.
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Pegg Thomas is an author and editor, but also a fiber artist of some *mumble* years. She raises sheep and spins their wool to create one-of-a-kind shawls and other useful items. While she mostly uses a modern-day production spinning wheel, she occasionally spins on a 200-year-old Great Wheel, a true piece of American history.
Great post! I love your wit. But holy anti-inflammatory, Batman! You know what I'm thinking...
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