What Properties Does Nettle Infusion Have?
What is nettle? | The benefits of nettle | Nettle infusions | Contraindications
It might seem contradictory to prepare an infusion with a plant that is considered bothersome and harmful when it comes into contact with the skin. But sometimes, not everything is as it seems, and nettle is the best example of this, as it has numerous therapeutic benefits when taken as an infusion .
Nettle infusion has been used to naturally treat conditions such as gout, urinary tract infections, and prostate inflammation. Continue reading this article if you want to learn more about the science-backed health benefits of nettle. I'll also recommend some nettle infusions and inform you about their contraindications.
What is nettle?
Nettle is a plant of European origin, whose botanical name is Urtica doica, although today it can be found all over the world, from Australia to North America. The nettle plant is best known for its delicate hairs , which can cause a stinging and burning sensation when touched. However, when nettle leaves are brewed in hot water , the stinging hairs are deactivated, making it safe to consume.
Nettle leaves have long been a staple of traditional medicine . The ancient Greeks, for example, used them to treat pain and bodily discomfort, and today, nettle is an important component of medications for seasonal allergies and others indicated to prevent circulatory disorders.
The benefits of nettle
- Prostate health
- Anti-inflammatory properties
- Reduces pollen allergy symptoms
- Rich in nutrients
- Prevents urinary tract infections
1. Prostate health
Drinking nettle tea may be beneficial for prostate health , especially if you suffer from an enlarged prostate. This condition, known as benign prostatic hyperplasia, can cause discomfort and pain when urinating. A 2005 study investigated the effects of nettle leaves on men suffering from this condition. The results showed that prostate size decreased, resulting in a significant improvement in urine flow and a reduction in pain.
2. Anti-inflammatory properties
Inflammation is part of the body's natural defense system, but sometimes this inflammation becomes chronic, causing serious health problems such as arthritis and joint pain. Nettle contains compounds that act to reduce inflammation , as several studies have shown. A study published in the Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine showed how a group of patients with osteoarthritis significantly reduced hand pain after taking a nettle leaf extract for a week.
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3. Reduces pollen allergy symptoms
One of the traditional uses of nettle leaf is the treatment of pollen allergies . Pollen allergy, or seasonal allergic rhinitis, is a common allergic reaction to seasonal triggers, such as pollen and dust. Research shows that drinking nettle tea can help reduce symptoms and improve allergic reactions.
Researchers have discovered that nettle extract helps reduce allergic reactions by inhibiting histamine. It also reduces inflammation and prevents the body from producing chemicals like prostaglandin, which are associated with pollen allergy symptoms such as runny nose and itchy eyes.
4. Rich in nutrients
Nettle leaves contain high concentrations of vitamins and minerals beneficial to humans. They contain a nutritious cocktail of vitamins A and C, as well as B vitamins and vitamin K. Vitamins C and A are beneficial for the immune system, while vitamin B helps convert nutrients into energy, and vitamin K is essential for blood clotting and also helps build calcium in bones.
In addition to these vitamins, nettle leaves contain minerals such as potassium and calcium, as well as essential amino acids. The leaves also contain beta-carotene and lutein, two compounds that are excellent for maintaining eye health.
5. Prevents urinary tract infections
Nettle infusion has long been used in herbal medicine as a treatment for urinary tract disorders. Nettle extract has been found to help inhibit pathogens that can cause infections leading to kidney stones and recurrent urinary tract infections . The plant may also help improve fluid retention to minimize frequent urination.
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Nettle infusions
Nettle, in addition to its health-promoting properties, gives infusions a flavor similar to that of green tea , with a smooth body and rich, earthy, herbaceous undertones. For this reason, it's an essential ingredient in many of our organic infusions:
Strong Woman Infusion
Nettle is a powerful detoxifier and is known for its properties in cleansing the blood and eliminating harmful toxins. It's also a great source of iron and vitamin C, making it very beneficial for regaining energy and replenishing after giving birth.
Strong Man Infusion
Nettle supports free testosterone in the body, balancing its levels , which is important for better overall health. It is also highly recommended for men of a certain age, due to its properties for reducing prostate inflammation and relieving associated symptoms.
Fasting Infusion
The high nutrient content of nettle provides natural energy to our body , being very beneficial for the liver, gallbladder, and kidneys. It also naturally contains serotonin, enhancing the effects of intermittent fasting.
Fat Burning Infusion
Nettle affects blood sugar levels by helping the pancreas produce more insulin. For this reason, it complements the other ingredients in our fat-burning infusion.
Contraindications of nettle
Nettle infusion should be avoided by those taking blood-thinning medications , as it contains high concentrations of vitamins A and K, which can interfere with these medications. It should also be avoided by people taking medication to control blood sugar levels, as nettle can further lower these levels and cause dizziness or fainting.
Pregnant women should not drink nettle infusions , as they can cause uterine contractions that could lead to premature labor. Always consult a healthcare professional before consuming infusions during pregnancy.
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