Stinging nettle root and leaf uses and benefits

Stinging nettle has been used for hundreds of years to treat painful muscles and joints, eczema, arthritis, gout, and anemia. Today  its  used to treat urinary problems during the early stages of an enlarged prostate (called benign prostatic hyperplasia or BPH).

Nettle root comes from the stinging nettle plant, also known as Urtica dioica. With a long tradition of medicinal use, stinging nettle was historically used to treat joint pain and help the body rid itself of excess water. Today, nettle root is used to treat a range of conditions but is most commonly associated with relieving the symptoms of an enlarged prostate gland.

Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica) has been a staple in herbal medicine since ancient times.

Ancient Egyptians used stinging nettle to treat arthritis and lower back pain.

Its scientific name, Urtica dioica, comes from the Latin word uro, which means “to burn,” because its leaves can cause a temporary burning sensation upon contact.

The leaves have hair-like structures that sting and also produce itching, redness and swelling

• Alleviates pain.
• Strengthens the bones.
• Boosts the immune system.
• Useful in preventing many ailments.
• Soothes allergies and skin irritation.
• Protects kidney, urinary, and prostate health.
• Keeps blood sugar and blood pressure levels in check.

Stinging nettle’s leaves and root provide a wide variety of nutrients, including :

vitamins A, C and K, as well as several B vitamins
Calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium and sodium
Linoleic acid, linolenic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid and oleic acid
Amino acids: All of the essential amino acids
Kaempferol, quercetin, caffeic acid, coumarins and other flavonoids
carotene, lutein, luteoxanthin and other carotenoids

Many of these nutrients act as antioxidants inside your body.

Antioxidants are molecules that help defend your cells against damage from free radicals. Damage caused by free radicals is linked to aging, as well as cancer and other harmful diseases .