Since a very early time before the dawn of modern medicine, herbs have been used for medicinal purposes. From minor ailments like skin rashes to serious infections, herbs are powerful enough to combat all. The easiest and well-acclaimed way of herbal intake is in the form of tea.
One such herbal tea is nettle tea which is being recognised around the globe as the healthiest form of herbal drink. Let’s explore in detail which healthy benefits one can get by having a cup of Nettle tea. We bet after reading this, you will include the Nettle tea as a part of your daily routine.
What is Nettle and where can it be found?
Nettle, scientifically named “Urtica docia.” is mostly called stinging nettle because stems contain toxic material, which creates a painful sensation upon touching and causes an allergic reaction.
The nettle plant is native to Europe, North America, North Africa, and some parts of Asia where it grows in the countryside and the moist regions. The length of the leaves is approximately 2 to 5 inches while the shape is like a heart.
From ancient times it has been used as a herb for treating many illnesses.
Nowadays it has also been a popular culinary herb and is a part of some delicious recipes around the globe. However, it has been proven from studies that nettle is enriched with many health benefits.
How to make Nettle Tea?
You can obtain nettle dried leaves from the local store or obtain fresh ones. If you are taking fresh leaves from the garden or buying them, be cautious as it contains a substance that can cause allergies so wear gloves. To dry the leaves, leave them in the open air or put them in the freezer for storage.
Making tea is a simple process. Take four teaspoons and boil in 2/3 cup of water. If you want a strong infusion then you have to crush the leaves and add in the water. You need to steep it for 20 minutes for the normal infusion. Or it can boil for a few minutes. If you want it to be strong then it should be steeped the whole night at room temperature.
Moreover, nettle tea bags are also available in the market.
Nutritional Facts of Nettle Tea
Following are the nutritional value offered by one cup:
| Daily value | |
| Calories | 24.9% |
| Total fat 0g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 0g | 0% |
| Trans fat 0g | 0% |
| Cholesterol 0g | 0% |
| Sodium 3.6mg | 0% |
| Total carbohydrate 6.2g | 21.4% |
| Total sugars 0g | |
| Protein 2.7g | |
| Calcium 428mg | 32.9% |
| Iron 1.4mg | 8% |
| Potassium 297.3mg | 7.1% |
| Phosphorous 63.2mg | 6.2% |
| Vitamins | |
| Vitamin B1 (Thiman) 0.0mg | 0.9% |
| Vitamin B3 (Niacan)0.4mg | 18% |
| Chlorine total 15mg | 2.7% |
| Vitamin B6 0.1 mg | 7.1% |
| Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) 0.2mg | 11% |
| Vitamin A 1790IU | 60% |
| Vitamin K 444 jug | 370% |
| Minerals | |
| Sodium 3.6mg | 0.0% |
| Selenium 0.3jug | 0.9% |
| Zinc 0.3mg | 18% |
| Phosphorus 297mg | 8.0% |
| Copper 0.1mg | 7.1% |
| Potassium 297mg | 8.0mg |
| Iron 1.4mg | 8.0% |
| Magnesium 51mg | 12% |
| Manganese 0.7mg | 30% |
| Calcium | 33% |
Benefits of Nettle Tea
You must have a rough idea about the amazingness of nettle tea by looking at the minerals and vitamins. Without getting any further, we are telling you the benefits in detail. So let’s start.
1. Helpful in managing the arthritis and bone problem
For a very early time, the nettle is being used for treating pain and aches problems. Research has shown that nettle tea reduces the pain and inflammation caused due to osteoarthritis. Furthermore, it has been shown by research that it possesses an anti-inflammatory effect against certain inflammatory disorders including arthritis.
2. Relive the allergic reaction
It may sound ironic to you as touching the plant causes allergic reactions while on the contrary, when tea is made from nettle leaves, it is a wonderful cure for treating many allergies such as seasonal flu or cough. It aids in hindering the body’s histamine production and inflammation. One other study carried out in Iran suggests that taking nettle tea reduces Hay fever symptoms.
3. Managing diabetes
Nettle tea can also be an effective drink in managing glucose levels in the blood. Past research supported that nettle can help those who have type 2 diabetes and are taking insulin.
4. Protects your heart
High blood pressure is a major issue and the majority of people are suffering around the world as is a leading cause for cardiac problems. The Nettle tea triggers nitric acid, which will widen the blood vessels. Moreover, due to the high amount of vitamin c, it will increase cell production. Also, helps in the prevention of anemia. Thus, calling it a heart-friendly tea won’t be wrong.
5. Treating skin diseases
Nettle tea will be effective enough in treating various types of skin problems such as eczema and acne. Due to its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving abilities, it helps in reducing swelling and redness. Moreover, you can take it as a tea or apply it to the affected area but always use it in a small portion.
6. Helpful in treating kidney and prostate problems
Enlarged prostate is a highly prevalent problem among the males above 50 years of age which has been found to be combated by nettle tea. Studies suggested that the nettle plant helps in stopping the conversion of testosterone into dihydrotestosterone. Moreover, it also lessens the chances of forming calcium oxalate crystals that make kidney stones.
7. Protect you from other diseases
Nettle tea is rich in polyphenol and will help to combat a number of diseases including breast cancer. It has also been proven beneficial in strengthening the immune system.
Potential risks and side effects
You should take a maximum of four cups of nettle tea a day. An excess amount may lead to side effects such as diarrhea, sweating, stomach problems, and urinary problems. But these are not experienced by all. Stop the intake in case you develop any of these. It is advisable for pregnant women to avoid this tea.
Final verdict
We hope that by reading this article, you will be convinced to include it in your daily routine, and the next thing you will go to your local store and grab the nettle leaves.
