Health Benefits of Nettle Leaf

Scientific Name: Urtica dioica

Introduction
Nettle, also known as Stinging Nettle, is a leafy herb with green, slightly hairy leaves that are harvested and dried for use in teas, capsules, and herbal preparations. The dried leaves have a mild, grassy flavor and a lightweight texture, making them easy to incorporate into blends.
Rich in vitamins, minerals, and bioactive compounds, nettle leaf has been used for centuries in traditional herbal medicine. It is valued for its anti-inflammatory, detoxifying, and nourishing properties, and is commonly used to support urinary tract health, allergy relief, joint comfort, and overall vitality.

Nettle leaf is rich in:
Vitamins A, C, K, and several B vitamins
Minerals like iron, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and silica
Chlorophyll, which supports detoxification

Blocks Histamine Receptors:
Nettle can help reduce symptoms of seasonal allergies like sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes.
Reduces Inflammation: Especially in the nasal passages and respiratory system.

Reduces joint pain, stiffness, and swelling in conditions like:
Arthritis (both rheumatoid and osteoarthritis)
Gout (helps lower uric acid levels)

Acts as a mild diuretic, increasing urine flow.
Supports kidney and bladder health, helping to flush out toxins.
Sometimes used for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) to support prostate function and ease urinary symptoms in men.

High in iron, making it useful for:
Supporting red blood cell production and Helping with iron deficiency anemia.
Improves circulation and promotes oxygen delivery to tissues.

May help reduce heavy menstrual bleeding and ease PMS symptoms.
Used to support hormonal balance during perimenopause and menopause.
Combines well with red raspberry leaf for uterine support.

Used to clear acne, eczema, and hives, thanks to its anti-inflammatory and detoxifying properties.
Improves scalp health and may reduce hair shedding when used internally or as a hair rinse.
Rich in silica, which strengthens hair and nails.

May help balance blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity.
Supports liver detox, which can enhance metabolism.

Mildly detoxifying for the liver and gallbladder.
Reduces inflammation in the gut lining, helpful for conditions like IBS.

Key Active Compounds

Flavonoids (quercetin, kaempferol) — antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and vascular support.
Polysaccharides — immune and mucosal support.
Mineral complex — supports skeletal, enzymatic, and circulatory health.

Summary of Core Nutrients

Vitamins: A, C, K, B-complex — antioxidant, metabolic, and coagulation support.
Minerals: iron, calcium, magnesium, potassium — blood, vascular, and skeletal support.
Fiber — digestive support.

Traditional European herbalism – supports urinary tract, joint health, and nutrient supplementation.
Folk medicine – used for allergies, inflammation, and mild diuretic effects.
Modern wellness – antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and nutrient-rich support.

Dried leaves
Powdered extract
Capsules / tablets
Teas / tinctures

Horsetail & Dandelion Leaf – urinary and kidney support synergy.
Nettle + Milk Thistle – liver and detox support.

Fresh leaves may irritate skin; drying or cooking removes stinging hairs.
Generally safe otherwise.

Steep nettle leaf tea or add powder to smoothies for nutrient and antioxidant support.

Conclusion
Nettle leaf is a gentle yet powerful herb for seasonal allergies, inflammation, urinary tract health, iron support, and skin health. Whether used in capsules, teas, or powders, it's a great all-around nourishing herb to add to many formulations.