Plant of the month: Nettle

Nettle: The plant that stings and heals

Belonging to the Urticaceae family, nettle is a shrubby dioecious perennial that grows to just over a metre. Its scientific name, Urtica Dioica, derives from the Latin word uro, meaning "to burn" in reference to the burning sensation it causes when in contact with the skin. This is because the plant is covered by structures that look like hairs and cause irritation, stinging and itching. Oval, toothed leaves grow from the reddish stem, with yellowish-green flowers blooming in July.

The nutritious and medicinal benefits of nettle

Used medicinally since ancient times, nettle was a common remedy for a variety of ailments in civilisations such as the Egyptians and Romans. Here are some of nettle's nutritious and medicinal properties:

• Despite not being a particularly popular herb in cooking, nettle has a distinctive flavour that suits a wide range of delicious dishes. Plus, it contains large amounts of vitamins, minerals and amino acids that make it highly nutritious and antioxidant. Rich in iron and vitamin C, it is an effective remedy for iron deficiency anaemia.
• The leaves and roots can be decocted into a lotion that helps prevent hair loss and dandruff.
• A powerful cleanserand diuretic, nettle helps in treating conditions such as gout and cystitis.
• Its anti-inflammatory properties are an effective remedy for conditions such as arthritis, haemorrhoids and pharyngitis.
• Thanks to its expectorant action, it helps clearing mucus from the airways in cases offlu and colds.
• When applied topically as an infused oil or poultice, it helps reduce muscle and joint

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