Stinging Nettle (Daun Jelatang)

Stinging Nettle (Urtica dioica), known as burn nettle as well, is not only medicinal but also very nutritional.

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Identification

Stinging nettle grows best in places with moist soil. It is common around sloughs, along stream banks, and moist woods, but it can easily be found in your backyard or garden. The plant grows from early spring through the summer, to late September, but is best used in spring when they are small. It can reach 3 to 8 feet (7.5-20 cm) tall. The leaves are mostly oval or occasionally heart-shaped. The soft, green leaves are 1 to 4 inches (2.5-10 cm) long and are arranged oppositely on a square erect stem.

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Edible and Medicinal Properties

​The leaves of the stinging nettle are edible. They are similar in taste to spinach, but much more nutritious, as the stinging nettle contains protein, iron, magnesium, and potassium. It is usually used to fight allergies (such as hay fever). It can just as well be used for menstrual problems, to lower blood pressure, to treat burns, insect bites, and wounds. It can also stimulate hair growth.

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Quick Remedies Using Stinging Nettle

​Powerful Nerve Pain Reliever

​The leaves and stems of nettle have been used historically to treat arthritis and relieve sore muscles. By applying stinging nettle directly on the affected area, nerve pain can be relieved.

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Analgesic Tea

Stinging nettle tea can be used for its analgesic effects. To prepare nettle tea, you’ll just have to steep dried nettle leaves in hot water for about 10 minutes and strain the leaves. You can consume up to three cups per day.

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Did You Know

Throughout history, various cultures and civilizations have utilized stinging nettle fibres to make rope. These ropes were further used for various purposes, including binding materials in construction, securing boats, and even for medical purposes.

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Warning

If pregnant or breastfeeding, stinging nettle should be avoided. It should be used with caution by the elderly because of the potential to cause low blood pressure. Moreover, diabetes patients should use it only if officially advised, as it may lower or raise blood sugar levels.