MEDICINAL PROPERTIES OF NETTLE

Although it is not very likely that you will find nettle on the list of adaptogenic herbs, it is exactly that and is an ideal tool to support our body in times of stress. Nettle contains over 700 undiscovered phytochemicals. It helps restore strength and contributes to longevity, has an anti-inflammatory effect on the organs and contains healing alkaloids that science has yet to discover.

When we talk about women's health, the ovaries get a lot of attention because of the production of reproductive hormones. This means that when a test shows that a woman's hormone levels are low, doctors tend to blame the reproductive system, sometimes leading to the prescription of unnecessary hormone replacement therapy. In fact, in women, the adrenal glands are also involved in the production of estrogen, progesterone and testosterone. Low hormone test results often mean that the adrenal glands are either overactive (the corrosive nature of excess adrenaline prevents accurate readings) or underactive (failing to produce the required amount of reproductive hormones). The only way you can get an accurate reproductive hormone test is if your adrenal glands are completely healthy and balanced. Many women in their 20s and 30s are told they have entered perimenopause, when the real cause of their suffering is adrenal fatigue. In the countless cases where a woman's reproductive system is considered a problem, it's actually the adrenal glands that need help - and that's exactly where nettles come into play .

This anti-radiation wild herb is amazing at taking care of the adrenal glands and other parts of the endocrine system that are under overload. And since the ovaries are part of the endocrine system, nettle is also useful for them - it helps to deal with all possible sources of hormonal disturbances at the same time. Nettle is the best reproductive herb of all time, especially for women. It improves egg production by supporting the release of follicle-stimulating hormone and ridding the body of toxic estrogens that have come in from external sources such as plastics and pesticides.

Rich in bone-building and protective minerals such as silica, nettle contains more than 40 micronutrients in their most bioactive, bioavailable and digestible form. In addition, nettle is a powerful pain reliever that helps us achieve optimal health.

CONDITIONS

If you suffer from any of the following conditions, consume nettles :

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) such as bladder and kidney infections, interstitial cystitis, cancer of the reproductive organs - ovaries, uterus, cervix; Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)/mononucleosis , rheumatoid arthritis (RA), herpes zoster , post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), laryngitis, difficulty conceiving, acne , eczema, psoriasis , infertility, all autoimmune diseases and disorders , hair loss, anemia, anorexia, anxiety, depression, bladder contraction, breast cancer, edema, endocrine system disorders, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), vaginal streptococcal infection .

SYMPTOMS

If you have any of the following symptoms, consume nettles :

Adrenal hyper- and hypofunction, adrenal hormone imbalance, anxiety, inflammation, reproductive hormone imbalance, vaginal discharge, vaginal itching, vaginal burning, menstrual pain, menstrual cramps, premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms, rashes, headache, nutritional allergies, menopause symptoms, abdominal cramps, premature aging, scarring, bloating , cold extremities, swelling, incontinence (involuntary leakage of urine), irregular menstruation, low cortisol levels, mood swings, irritability.

EMOTIONAL SUPPORT

Nettle is a great focusing herb when one is very distracted and scatterbrained.

A SPIRITUAL LESSON

When nettles start sprouting in the spring, they look like just another plant in the garden or in the field – we enjoy their fresh foliage without thinking about anything else. Then suddenly the nettle grows, grows and makes its presence known. When we are not careful, it makes itself known by a slight scald to the touch. People who have had such painful encounters tend to label nettles as a weed, and its appearance in the spring causes some fear. For those who have learned to treat nettles with respect and are aware of their many benefits, there is a small thrill that occurs when they see the sprouting plant - like meeting a long lost friend. The nettle teaches us to watch for those sparks of gratitude everywhere. What else in your life have you been dismissive of when it really comes down to learning to be open to it, work with it, and appreciate its true nature?

ADVICES

• Even dried nettle brings its powerful beneficial properties. Drink nettle tea in the afternoon for its strongest effect.
• For mosquito and other insect bites, scrapes and minor burns, soak a cloth with nettle tea and apply to the area.
• Drink nettle tea before meditating to help you concentrate better.

NETTLE TEA WITH MINT AND GINGER

Makes 3 to 6 cups

Nettle 's adaptogenic properties help us connect with our intuition. As you sip this invigorating tea, think about your intuitive abilities – how they have served you in the past and what they are telling you now.

• 2 tbsp. nettle leaves
• 2 tbsp. chopped fresh mint
• 2 tbsp. grated ginger

Mix all ingredients in a small bowl. Boil 4 cups of water. For each cup of tea, use 1 tsp. of the mixture.* Steam for at least 5 minutes.

*If you want a stronger, more healing tea, use 2 tsp. or up to 1 tbsp. of the tea blend per serving.