Constituents:
Leaves and herb: Flavonoids, carotenoids (like lutein), many minerals with partly water-soluble silicates, organic acids, sterols, and vitamins. Stinging hairs contain small amounts of acetylcholine, serotonin, and histamine.
Root: Phytosterols (like β-sitosterol), lignans, and polysaccharides.
Nettle
Urtica dioica L. – Grande ortie
Urtica urens L. – Petite ortie
Effects and Use:
Nettle leaves used in tea have a mild diuretic effect due to their high mineral content (especially potassium) and flavonoids. The increased urine flow may also contribute to an anti-rheumatic effect, likely due to organic acids like caffeoylmalic acid. Thus, nettle is used to support metabolism and reduce inflammation in urinary tract and joint conditions.
A tea made from nettle root may relieve symptoms of benign prostate enlargement.
Tea Preparation:
Leaves and herb: Steep 2 teaspoons of finely chopped herb with 1 cup of boiling water for 10 minutes, strain. Drink 1 cup several times daily.
Root: Place 1 teaspoon of finely chopped root in 1 cup of cold water, bring to a boil, simmer for 1–2 minutes, steep covered for 10 minutes, strain. Drink 3–4 cups daily.