"Stinging" Nettles Urtica dioica
In the Pacific Northwest, spring has fully emerged. With the colorful blossoms comes the anticipation of dreaded allergies. The first allergens to saturate the air in the spring are tree pollens, followed by grass and weed pollens at the height of summer. Then the fall brings out ragweed and airborne fungus before winter's relief. If you are one of the 50 million people in the US who suffers from allergies this year, you will find Nettles to be a simple yet powerful herb to support your health through this season.
Allergic rhinitis, or hay fever, is a type of disorder of the immune system in which simple foreign substances, such as pollen, can cause havoc. Unfortunately, the more that you are exposed to the allergens the worse your response gets. To protect the body, the bloodstream is flooded with powerful signaling molecules such as histamines and leukotrienes. These biogenic substances produce inflammation, which is the body's way of protecting it against these offending substances. As a result, those of us who suffer from allergies, develop watery eyes, running noses, and sneezing as the most common symptoms to difficulty of breathing, depleted energy and foggy head.
Nettles (Urtica dioica) are an excellent spring tonic in anticipation of the allergy season. Nettles have traditionally been used as a "pot herb", one that you stewed in a pot, to fortify you body after a long winter. Nettles belong to the genus Urtica, which is derived from the Latin "uro" meaning to burn. The burn from Nettles originates from its most notable feature, the stinging hairs that are located on its leaves and stems. If brushed, these hairs release a burst of formic acid, the same substance that comes from a sting or bite of an ant. Hot and throbbing pain from contact with Nettles can last up to 12-24 hours. Historically this throbbing sting has been used in the process of Urtication, or flogging with Nettles. Flogging increases the circulation to an area and thus alleviates symptoms of poor circulation associated with rheumatism.
Despite the burn of the Nettles' stinger its leaves have nutritive value. Nettles are best taken for 2-3 months before the peak of the allergy season, but it's never too late to start. What follows are some highlights as to why Nettles are important to introduce into your daily life, especially during this allergy season.
Nettles:
- Nettles are a potent packed nutritive tonic. Nettles are rich in vitamins and minerals, including calcium, potassium, magnesium, iron, silicon, manganese, zinc, phosphate chromium, and Vitamin A, B, C, D, E, F and K
- A preliminary human study of helping allergy sufferers with Nettles was conducted at the National College of Naturopathic Medicine in Portland, Oregon. In this study there was evidence that Nettles significantly reduced symptoms of allergies, most notably sneezing, itchy eyes, and runny nose.
- Nettles are thought to act by reducing the amount of histamine the body produces in response to the allergen, though more studies are needed to confirm this theory.
- From a holistic viewpoint, allergies are associated with weak adrenals, immune and elimination function.
- Nettles are an excellent kidney tonic, and good kidney function is essential for vitality and energy. Through their homeostatic, balancing properties Nettles calibrate a more efficient urination while also alkalizing the urine.
- Nettles are supportive to overexerted adrenals, which are seated right on top of the kidneys. When you feed the adrenals, you feed the kidneys, and feed your health.
- Nettles activate the metabolism as it strengthens and tones the entire system thus increasing immunity response to fend off allergens.
Contraindications:
Nettles are generally safe, but if any reaction occurs, please discontinue use of this herb. Some people have experienced mild digestive upset. Also use caution when handling fresh plants because of its stinger. For leaves, use only young shoots before flowering of the plant. Consult your health care provider before making any changes to your health care. Nettles may interact with certain medication, esp. anti-coagulants, anti-platelet, diuretics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory, blood pressure and/or diabetic medication.
To purchase Fresh Wildcrafted Nettles from Oregon
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