Nettles

Nettles (Urtica dioica) Part used: Young plant. Nettles are probably best known for their sting. The tiny hairs of the plant contain formic acid, the same stinging substance that causes pain from ant bites. The hairs also contain choline acetyltransferase, acetlylcholine, choline, and serotonin. There are actually health benefits to the stings, such as in relieving arthritis pain. Most people will want to wear gloves and use scissors when collecting nettles. However, people in the know have learned that getting stung by nettles is very therapeutic and relieves pain and inflammation. I have several friends that "whack" their wrists in the nettle patch to relieve the soreness from playing guitar all night long. Young nettles shoots can be finely chopped and marinated in a bit of olive oil, Celtic salt, and lemon juice. Nettles can also be pureed in a food processor to make a pesto. (Pureeing them deactivates the sting.) Nettles are highly alkaline and very rich in iron; they are more effective than spinach in building the blood. Their rich supply of beta carotene and Vitamin C strengthen the mucus membranes. In fact, nettles are so rich in nutrients that they help curb overeating. Nettles also are considered ant-allergenic. Taking nettles in capsule, tea or tincture form before the hay fever season even begins can minimize the annual discomfort of hay fever. Only young nettles plants should be consumed; once the plant starts to flower, it becomes irritating to the kidneys when ingested.