Nettle tea is one of the most popular herbal beverages on the market today due to its cleansing properties.
Stinging nettle is found growing wild all over the world and usually indicates a nutrient-rich soil. The sting felt when the leaves come into contact with bare skin is lost when the leaves are cooked, and they can be eaten as a vegetable, resembling and tasting like spinach.
The young leaves are the ones used to make stinging nettle tea. The leaves are infused in hot water for several minutes before being strained. A cooled nettle infusion can be used to treat acne and other skin disorders, and drinking the tea can help to treat them from inside the body.
Benefits of Nettle Tea
Nettle tea is commonly used to cleanse the system, acting as a diuretic and encouraging the body to expel waste products, which is good for those who suffer from water retention. The leaves contain high amounts of iron so are beneficial for sufferers of anemia.
It can help to ease the symptoms of arthritis, though centuries ago sufferers were whipped with the nettle plants. The idea was that the pain from the nettle stings distracted from the pain of the arthritis.
Stinging nettle contains high levels of nutrients which can help the digestive system to function properly. It can also be soothing and healing for infections of the urinary tract. By keeping all these systems in good health the liver, kidneys, and other organs will all function so much better and will help to combat fatigue.
Nettle can help with respiratory and allergy problems such as asthma and hay fever. It is a natural expectorant and can be used to treat coughs and colds. Its benefits for the immune system can help the body to fight off colds. It can be used to treat hemorrhoids and soothe skin complaints such as eczema.
Nettles Extract Tincture
As well as the tea, nettle is also available as an extract or tincture where the herb is infused in alcohol. Nettles extract can be purchased and can be taken from either the leaves or the root.
Stinging nettles extract can also be found as an ingredient in a number of shampoos and other hair products as it is believed to improve the glossiness of hair. It can also balance the oiliness of hair and treat dandruff. It is also thought to be beneficial in preventing hair loss.
Benign prostate problems can also be treated with nettle extract as can excessive menstrual bleeding. Stinging nettle extract is often found as an ingredient in prescription medications which are used to treat conditions such as prostate hyperplasia.
Nettle Leaf Tea Side Effects
Nettle leaf tea should have very few side effects. If taking medication for high blood pressure or blood thinning, then it is better to consult your doctor before using nettle infusion as well.
Some people may suffer a mild stomach upset while using nettle supplements. Excessive amounts should not be consumed because of its diuretic effects. For the best results, only take recommended dosages for the suggested period of time.
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