Although you may not find stinging nettle on the list of adaptogenic herbs, it is one of them and is an ideal remedy for supporting our bodies during times of stress. Nettle contains over 700 undiscovered phytochemicals. It helps restore strength and contributes to longevity, has anti-inflammatory effects on the organs, and contains medicinal alkaloids that science has yet to discover.
When it comes to women’s health, the ovaries get a lot of attention because they produce reproductive hormones. This means that when a test shows that a woman’s hormone levels are low, doctors tend to blame the reproductive system, which sometimes leads to unnecessary hormone replacement therapy. In fact, in women , the adrenal glands are also involved in the production of estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. Low hormone test results often mean that the adrenal glands are either overactive (the corrosive nature of excess adrenaline interferes with accurate readings) or underactive (failing to produce the necessary amount of reproductive hormones). The only way you can get an accurate hormone test for the state of your reproductive organs is if your adrenal glands are completely healthy and balanced. Many women in their 20s and 30s are told that they have entered perimenopause, when the real cause of their suffering is adrenal fatigue . In the countless cases where a woman's reproductive system is considered a problem, it is actually the adrenal glands that need help – and this is where nettle comes into play.
This anti-radiation wild herb is amazing for taking care of the adrenal glands and other parts of the endocrine system that are under stress. And since the ovaries are part of the endocrine system, stinging nettle is good for them too – it helps to address all possible sources of hormonal disruption at the same time. Stinging nettle is the best reproductive herb of all time, especially for women. It improves egg production by aiding the release of follicle-stimulating hormone and ridding the body of toxic estrogens that have entered from external sources like plastics and pesticides.
Rich in bone-building and bone-protecting minerals like silica, stinging nettle contains more than 40 trace minerals in their most bioactive, bioavailable, and absorbable form. In addition, stinging nettle is a powerful pain reliever that helps us achieve optimal health.
States
If you suffer from any of the following conditions, consume nettle :
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) such as bladder and kidney infections, interstitial cystitis, cancer of the reproductive organs - ovaries, uterus, cervix; Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)/mononucleosis , rheumatoid arthritis (RA) , herpes zoster , post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) , laryngitis, difficulty conceiving, acne , eczema, psoriasis , infertility , all autoimmune diseases and disorders , hair loss, anemia, anorexia , anxiety, depression, bladder prolapse, breast cancer, edema, endocrine system diseases, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) , vaginal streptococcal infection .
Symptoms
If you have any of the following symptoms, consume nettle :
Adrenal hyper- and hypofunction, adrenal hormone imbalance, anxiety, inflammation , reproductive hormone imbalance, vaginal discharge, vaginal itching, vaginal burning, menstrual pain, menstrual cramps, premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms, rashes, headaches, food allergies, menopausal symptoms, abdominal cramps, premature aging, scars, bloating , cold extremities, edema, incontinence (involuntary loss of urine), irregular menstruation, low cortisol levels, mood swings, irritability.
Emotional support
Nettle is a great herb for focusing when a person is very distracted and scattered.
Spiritual lesson
When nettles start to sprout in the spring, they seem like just another plant in the garden or field – we enjoy their fresh greens without thinking about anything else. Then suddenly the nettles grow, grow, and declare their presence. When we are not careful, they make themselves known with a slight sting when touched. People who have had similar painful encounters tend to label nettles as weeds, and their appearance in the spring evokes a certain fear. For those who have learned to approach nettles with respect and are aware of their many benefits, there is a small thrill that arises when they see the sprouted plant – it is like meeting a long-lost friend. Nettles teach us to watch for those sparks of gratitude everywhere. What else in your life have you been neglecting when it is really a matter of learning to be open to it, to work with it, and to appreciate its true nature?
Tips
- Even dried nettle has powerful healing properties. Drink nettle tea in the afternoon for the strongest effects.
- For mosquito and other insect bites, scrapes, and minor burns, soak a cloth in nettle tea and apply to the area.
- Drink nettle tea before meditation to help you concentrate better.
Nettle tea with mint and ginger
For 3 to 6 cups
The adaptogenic properties of nettle help us connect with our intuition. As you sip this invigorating tea, think about your intuitive abilities—how they have served you in the past and what they are telling you right now.
- 2 tablespoons nettle leaves;
- 2 tablespoons crushed fresh mint;
- 2 tablespoons grated ginger.
Mix all ingredients in a small bowl. Boil 4 cups of water. For each cup of tea, use 1 tsp. of the mixture.* Steep for at least 5 minutes.
*If you want a stronger, more medicinal tea, use 2 tsp or up to 1 tbsp of the tea blend per serving.
This article uses materials from Anthony William's book "The Most Useful Foods" .
