"Don't push Granny into the nettles! And yet, if she suffers from rheumatic fever, it could do her a world of good! One could almost say that its benefits are equal to its discomforts... Nettle, beyond appearances and prejudices... zoom in on its many benefits!

Nettle composition

Leaves contain essential amino acids and protein to the tune of 8-20% of their fresh weight. They are also rich in iron, which is useful in cases of anemia.

Silicon plays a key role in the maintenance of connective tissues such as skin, hair, joints, tendons and nails, and is also involved in the synthesis of hyaluronic acid and collagen.

Nettle also contains carotenoids (luetin and zeaxanthin) that protect against cataracts and age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

Its high chlorophyll content gives it detoxifying properties for the blood .

Good to know: 300g of cooked nettle provides the daily ration of protein, iron, calcium and zinc! And it contains 3 times more vitamin C than an orange!

Using the aerial part of the nettle

Before its inclusion in the Codex de la pharmacopée française in 1818, nettle had already been recognized since Antiquity for its ability to stop bleeding and promote coagulation. Simply apply fresh leaf juice directly to the wound to stop it bleeding.

Later, it was used for anti-diarrheal, antidiabetic and depurative purposes. In popular tradition, it was common to lash oneself with a bunch of nettles to relieve rheumatic pain.

In infusion, nettle leaves calm respiratory disorders.

Good to know: victim of an unfortunate stinging caress? Crumple some ivy or plantain leaves between your fingers and apply the juice directly to the pimple. Or use vinegar!

Using nettle root

Nettle root has an action on prostate problems, particularly in cases of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and prostatic miction disorders. Nettle root's diuretic properties increase urinary volume and flow, helping to eliminate post-micturition residues. Interestingly, the WHO recommends nettle for the prevention of kidney stones.

Nettle and allergies

In 2009, a study demonstrated the anti-allergic properties of nettle which, at a dose of 300mg of leaf extract per day, inhibits histamine receptors and regulates prostaglandin production, thereby reducing inflammatory phenomena.

Nettle and remineralization

Fresh nettle 's high mineral and trace-element content makes it an ideal ally for remineralization cures in cases of chronic fatigue (asthenia), demineralization, anemia... It is also recommended for strengthen hair brittle, dull, greasy and also in for relieve acne thanks to its high zinc content, which is notably sebo-regulating and anti-inflammatory.

Nettle and garden

Making your own nettle purin has been legal in France since 2014... Nettle purin promotes plant growth and protects them from certain diseases.

Here's his recipe: macerate 1 kg of chopped fresh plant in 10 liters of rainwater in a closed, airtight container. The outside temperature should be at least 20°C. Stir the mixture daily for 5 to 6 days, until a fermentation foam appears. When the foam disappears, the liquid manure is ready!

Filter the preparation and fill opaque cans to maximum capacity. Store for 2 years, away from light and heat.

Be careful: use nettle purin diluted, otherwise you risk burning your plants!

Nettle and cooking/crusins

In soups, pestos, terrines or salads, young nettle shoots can be eaten raw (preferably) or cooked.

To pick them, grasp the young shoots from underneath, in the direction of the stinging hairs, then roll the leaves gently to break the itchy spikes. You can then eat them raw, as a country snack (children are often fond of them!) or in a salad with dandelions, daisies, etc., to keep with the theme...

Nettles can be considered a weed because they sting and proliferate rapidly thanks to their network of surface roots. However, once you're aware of its many benefits, having some in your garden can quickly become an asset.