Nettle is part of many folk recipes for the treatment of a number of different diseases. It has gained popularity due to the presence of beneficial compounds that have a beneficial effect on the body. Accumulates in succulent stems and leaves during growth significant amount microelements, vitamins and other biologically active substances necessary for the body.

Stinging nettle is widely used not only in herbal medicine, but also in cosmetology, pharmacology, and gynecology. First courses are prepared with it; its leaves are poured with boiling water to make a pleasant, refreshing tea.

But you need to use nettle with caution, because, like other plants that deserve frequent mention in folk medicine, it has its contraindications. Therefore, before use, especially if we are not talking about a one-time dose, it is necessary to consult with your local doctor.

People have been paying attention to the beneficial properties of nettle for a long time, but the popularity of this plant does not decrease even today. Young leaves are used in cosmetology, dermatology, gynecology and many other medical fields.

In our latitudes you can find two species - stinging nettle and stinging nettle. It is the latter that is considered the most useful. It grows in forests and park recreation areas, near houses and rivers, and in wastelands. The leaves are equilateral and have a bright green color and long petioles. Stinging nettle differs from the dioecious variety by the presence of small, dense hairs on the leaves.

This useful plant can be bought at a pharmacy or collected yourself. To obtain a therapeutic effect, it is enough to brew tea; nettle leaves also make excellent and, most importantly, healthy cabbage soup.

Of course, to collect plant materials, you should choose places away from the highways, in ecologically clean areas, so as not to cause harm to the body instead of the expected positive effect. Dusty leaves of stinging nettle growing on roadsides are contraindicated.

What it contains

Humanity has been using herbal treatment since antiquity, and stinging nettle occupies one of the leading places in herbal medicine, without losing its popularity over the centuries.

This plant contains a set of microelements that have a positive effect on many systems of our body. Vitamin K present in the leaves has anti-inflammatory properties and helps significant influence on blood clotting. In addition, nettle contains calcium, flavonoids, formic acid, tannins and many other chemical elements.

Nettle can quickly and effectively remove harmful toxins from the body, and when used in a course, cleanse the skin.

This plant, like carrots, contains a large number of beta-carotene, which has a beneficial effect on the organs of vision and protects the cells of the body as a whole from free radicals.

The green leaves of stinging nettle contain a lot of vitamin E and B vitamins, as well as iron, chlorophyll, coumarins and flavonoids, which have powerful antioxidant effects.

By the way, chlorophyll is necessary not only for plants. and for humans. It is no coincidence that today they produce a huge number of food supplements containing green molecules of this substance.

Young May nettle is added to salads, and nettle tea can be drunk all year round by brewing it on dried, stored leaves.

Key Benefits

1. Biologically active compounds in nettle stimulate metabolism and improve immunity.
2. Stinging nettle is very useful for people suffering from chronic ailments such as tuberculosis and atherosclerosis.
3. Nettle tea has been proven effective in treating problems digestive system, in the fight against nausea and increased gas formation.
4. Nettle leaves are also successfully used for diseases of mucous surfaces (throat diseases, nosebleeds).
5. The plant can be eaten (the “green borscht” made from nettle is especially popular) and used as a medicinal or homeopathic remedy to relieve irritations caused by allergic rashes, such as urticaria, dermatitis, etc.
6. It is especially worth noting. People familiar with this disease know how painful it can be and how difficult it is to deal with unpleasant symptoms.
7. Nettle leaves have another unique ability related to the regulation of hematopoiesis in the body.

For men

Nettle seeds have long been considered an indispensable remedy for maintaining male strength. To do this, plant raw materials are brewed and the resulting decoction is consumed half an hour before meals, in the morning and in the evening. In the early stages of prostate adenoma in men, tea made from dry leaves is useful: 2 tbsp. l. dry product is poured with a glass of boiling water and infused for 5-10 minutes. Men should take this tea morning and evening for one to two months.

For women

Since ancient times, stinging nettle has been used in gynecology. Even then, people noticed that the plant has a positive effect on a woman’s body: during heavy periods, it reduces bleeding and normalizes an unstable cycle.

The main element that affects blood clotting is vitamin K, which has a beneficial effect on the physiological processes occurring in the body during menstrual periods.

In case of prolonged and/or painful periods, you can use nettle tea. This drink increases the number of platelets and hemoglobin levels in the blood. Another positive property of nettle is its ability to purify the blood.

In gynecology, herbal preparations are often used, since in combination they have maximum effectiveness. To enhance the positive effect, nettle can be combined with lungwort, yarrow and horsetail.

If there is insufficient milk supply during breastfeeding You can drink nettle juice diluted in purified water, or add young leaves to tea.

Beautiful hair

Folk recipes that came to us a long time ago, from our great-grandmothers, most often turn out to be the most effective. Look at old photos - all the women have thick, luxurious long braids.

1. The plant helps fight scalp diseases, prevents hair loss, and promotes rapid growth.
2. There are many ways to use nettle as a hair care product. The plant can be added to store-bought shampoos and conditioners, or you can make home remedies based on it, apply it to your hair as a mask, and use it internally as a tea.
3. With proper use of nettle, you can get rid of problems such as dandruff, brittle hair, split ends, and excessive oily scalp.
4. Nettle “works” as an antiseptic and has anti-inflammatory properties.
5. With regular use of the decoction, you can achieve a radiant shine, your hair will become noticeably thicker and healthier.
6. Systematic rinsing of the head after washing with nettle decoction helps restore hair damaged by frequent dyeing or perming, improves its color due to the content of minerals and beneficial microelements that the female body lacks.

The beneficial substances contained in this herb will not disappear, even if you use it in dried form from autumn to spring.

Men can also use the hair care recipes given here, although, in truth, they care about their beauty much less than the fair sex.

Moreover, there are simply no contraindications for washing hair with stinging nettle decoctions.

The ideal remedy for improving the growth of beautiful and healthy hair is nettle oil. It can be used as a mask before washing your hair, and as a balm after using shampoo. This oil will protect your hair from the harmful effects of hot air from a hair dryer when drying and styling your hair.

Nettle oil is sold in pharmacies. But you can make the decoction yourself - for free. Both leaves and stems, and even roots of the plant are suitable for its preparation. With regular use, your hair will soon shine with shine and health!

Another significant advantage in favor of nettle decoctions is that they are practically odorless.

Why is it dangerous?

The leaves and stems of the plant are also useful for internal use, but within reasonable limits. When treating with nettle, it is better to treat this process with caution and ask a doctor for advice, since this plant has its own characteristics and contraindications.

• Affects blood thickness and clotting. Therefore, if a person has high pressure, he is sick with hypertension or atherosclerosis, use nettle in medicinal purposes it is forbidden.
• For varicose veins and thrombophlebitis, the use of products based on this plant material is also not recommended.
• The use of nettle is also contraindicated for those who have kidney problems.
• Under no circumstances should you drink decoctions from the leaves of the plant during pregnancy, as they can stimulate uterine contractions and lead to premature birth.
• Another contraindication is any type of tumor.

If used thoughtlessly, any remedy can cause harm instead of the expected recovery. Be careful and thoroughly study the chosen treatment method before implementing it.

Everyone knows nettles. It is not only a common weed, but also a useful plant that is specially bred to produce medicinal and cosmetical tools. People use nettle in everyday life, cook food with it, and in the old days they made reliable amulets from it.

Why do nettles sting?

Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica) And stinging nettle (Urtica urens) are considered the most common species. It is difficult to find a person who has never been burned by nettles. This feature of the plant is reflected in its name: “Uro” translates as “burn.” There is no consensus on the origin of the word "nettle". According to some information, Russian name associated with the very outdated word “okrop”, i.e. "boiling water". According to others, with the word “speckled”. Indeed, a nettle burn causes the appearance of numerous small blisters and spots on the skin. Since ancient times, the popular names of nettle have been preserved: “zhguchka”, “zhigachka”, “strekava”, “strekalka”, etc.

Stinging nettle and stinging nettle are the most common species in the Moscow region. Stinging nettle is more common than stinging nettle. She's much taller. They say about the low-growing stinging nettle that you only notice it when you sit on it. Both types have medicinal properties. Wherever stinging nettle grows: in the forest in damp and shady places, near housing, in vacant lots and various weedy places, in rich garden soils. The tetrahedral stems and leaves are covered with stinging hairs. Each hair is a tiny “syringe” filled with a caustic liquid, which includes formic acid. The role of a needle is performed by a fragile head. It consists mainly of silicon. Even light contact with the human body causes the “syringe” to pierce the skin and quickly inject liquid. A burning sensation immediately appears, and then itching and inflammation of the skin begins.

Nettle as a medicinal plant

Stinging nettle is rich in vitamins A, C, K and mineral salts. The most famous property of nettle is its ability to stop bleeding. Nettle preparations affect blood clotting. They improve its quality: increase hemoglobin and increase the number of red blood cells. Nettle activates metabolism and has a good effect on the cardiovascular system. The juice of this plant heals wounds and varicose ulcers. Wash and rinse your hair with nettle decoctions to improve hair and stop hair loss. Nettle brooms are used to treat the lower back. They help with osteochondrosis and articular rheumatism.

For rheumatism, rubbings prepared from nettle rhizomes infused with vodka are also used. When coughing, take a decoction of the rhizome orally (you need 1 - 2 tablespoons), which is kept in a water bath for 15 minutes. Instead of water use 250 ml sugar syrup(you can add honey), take one tablespoon every two hours. For toothache, prepare a decoction (for 15 minutes) in the following proportion: 1 - 2 tablespoons of rhizome per glass of water. You need to rinse your mouth with the decoction several times a day. For shortness of breath, add nettle flowers (fresh or dry) to the tea brew. Blood sugar levels are well reduced by a decoction of nettle flowers.

Nettle has long been used as a wild food product. They prepare cabbage soup, porridge, mashed potatoes, salads and pies with it. The most useful are considered to be young shoots, which in the spring save the human body from vitamin deficiency.

Contraindications

Nettle is incredibly beneficial. However, it can be harmful in cases of increased blood clotting, hypertension and atherosclerosis. Nettle is dangerous in case of tumor bleeding; it should be taken with caution in case of uterine bleeding and kidney disease. Nettle is contraindicated during pregnancy. “Raw nettle can cause kidney damage. Nettle and its preparations should not be used in food for freckles or age spots on the skin, as sensitivity to sunlight increases.” (R.B. Akhmedov “Plants - your friends and foes”). Before giving nettle to pets, it is better to steam it or burn it with boiling water.

Nettle on the farm

In Rus', nettles were used to make fiber, which was used to make ropes, bags and... sails. Nettle is used to make industrial and food paints. Green paint is obtained from the “tops”, yellow - from rhizomes and roots. Tourists and summer residents can a quick fix build a “refrigerator” from a hole dug in the ground, the walls and bottom of which are lined with nettles. Meat is wrapped in it for longer storage. I discovered another beneficial property of nettle quite by accident. One autumn I forgot a lot of nettles at the dacha, which I laid out to dry on the table and on the plank floor. This saved the house from the annual mouse invasion. Later I often used this method. Gardeners know what an excellent plant food a fermented infusion of nettle is. It also improves the quality of compost.

In the Tula region there is village Krapivna, whose symbol is nettle. It is also on the coat of arms of the former county town. This open-air museum, where ancient temples, merchant houses and shopping arcades have been preserved, hosts the International Nettle Festival every summer. Folk artists perform there, and visitors sample nettle treats, study nettle fiber fabric, and voluntarily get burned with nettles.

Beliefs of antiquity

Healers never cut nettles with a knife; they always tore them with their hands. It was believed that in June it would be beneficial to burn yourself with nettles. Especially men. This makes them stronger. Naughty children were often whipped with nettles for purposes far removed from pedagogy. They cast out the unclean.

Nettle has always been a plant that has been used with both good and evil intentions. She was considered a reliable talisman. The day before Ivan Kupala they plugged all the cracks with nettles, laid them out on thresholds, and hung them on doors and windows to protect sorcerers and witches. Before swimming, they must be thrown into the water to protect themselves from mermaids. They also protected livestock: wreaths of nettles were placed (on the eve of Ivan Kupala) on the horns of livestock. It was believed that cattle must be led through the nettles scattered on the ground.

At the entrance to the house, rugs woven from nettle stems were laid out. They were intended to evil people for a while they forgot about envy and lost their negative energy. Nettle branches were used to fumigate rooms against the evil eye. In the room where the baby slept, nettles were placed in the corners. Nettle brooms were used to sweep away damage and squabbles from the home. In the North, nettles were thrown at windows with the sentence: “The nettle is in the house, and the bug is out.” Gardeners dug nettles (with roots) near the cabbage and whispered: “The nettle is for the worms, and the cabbage is for us.” Bunches of dried nettles were burned to ward off hail and thunderclouds. There was also such a belief: “You can catch a fish with bare hands, if you rub your palms with fresh nettle juice.”

Nettles have a “taste” of desolation and ruin. This was reflected in the speech. The expression “to be found in nettles,” which means “to give birth to an illegitimate child,” is indicative. Which was much worse than being “found in cabbage.”

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Don't miss the moment when young nettles are born. It is still tender and very useful when eaten.
It is better to collect it before flowering.

Nettle is a valuable multivitamin plant, a kind of natural concentrate of vitamins. It contains twice as much ascorbic acid than blackcurrant fruits and lemon, the carotene content is higher than in sea buckthorn berries, carrots and sorrel, and only 20 nettle leaves provide our body with the daily requirement of vitamin A. In addition, nettle is rich in vitamins K, E and B and microelements: including iron, magnesium, copper, calcium, etc.

Nettle contains silicon, flavonoids, phytoncides, and organic acids, thanks to which nettle has general strengthening properties: it increases the body's resistance to many bacteria, toxins, harmful effects of radiation, strengthens the immune system, and also provides a high degree of protection of the body from oxygen deficiency.

By improving the overall flow of all energy processes, nettle has a stimulating effect on carbohydrate and protein metabolism, which is why it is so often recommended for chronic diseases, when the overall resistance of the body is noticeably reduced.

Vitamin K saturates nettle with powerful hemostatic properties. Vitamin K increases blood clotting and has an anti-inflammatory effect, which makes it possible to use nettle as a wound-healing agent both for external use and for internal uterine, pulmonary, kidney, intestinal and other internal bleeding.

Nettle leaves also contain pure chlorophyll, without the admixture of other pigments. Chlorophyll has a strong stimulating and tonic effect on the body, improves metabolism, increases the tone of the intestines, cardiovascular system and respiratory center, and also promotes the healing of affected tissues.

WHAT CAN BE COOKED FROM NETTLE

Lots of different dishes! These include first courses, i.e. soups, second courses, salads and pies, cereals and sauces, cutlets, tea and juice.

It is only important to understand that young nettle is rarely used as the main component of a recipe, more as an addition for taste. For example, like greens. Therefore, it can be added to many common dishes that you usually prepare, giving them new taste and making it useful.

HOW TO COOK NETTLE

To ensure that young nettle does not lose its beneficial properties, it is necessary to subject it to heat treatment as little as possible.

The nettle should be boiled for no more than 3 minutes. Even when scalded with boiling water, it stops stinging and can be finely chopped for use in salads or other dishes. If you want to preserve as much vitamin A as possible, then it is better to chop the nettles with your hands or with a ceramic knife.

Young nettle is added to soups, main courses and porridges at the end of cooking.

It is not possible to follow these rules only in pies and cutlets.

By brewing young nettle leaves we get tea.

Juice from nettle leaves is used for medicinal and cosmetic purposes, or for drinks; to obtain it, young nettles are soaked in clean water for several hours, and then squeeze it thoroughly in gauze.

HOW TO COLLECT AND PRESERVE NETTLES.

You need to collect young nettles starting in April, in a clean forest, far from roads, landfills, cattle burial grounds and industrial enterprises.

We use young leaves and upper tender stems. Take the healthy green parts. To avoid getting burned, we use gloves.

FOR FUTURE YOUNG NETTLE CAN BE DRYED, SALTED OR FROZEN:

It is necessary to dry it in the shade; the shelf life of dried nettle is no more than 2 years.

For pickling, young nettles are washed well and finely chopped, take from 50 to 100 grams of salt per 1 kg, this is about 2-4 tablespoons. Mix the chopped nettles well with salt, place them tightly in glass jars and close with regular reusable lids. Store refrigerated, such as in the refrigerator or cellar, for up to 1 month.

For freezing, we also wash young nettles well, dry them, and place them in plastic bags or plastic mayonnaise jars and put them in the freezer for storage.

SEVERAL RECIPES OF YOUNG NETTLE DISHES:

“VITAMIN” NETTLE SOUP (with cheese)
Compound:

for 2 liters of water:
2-3 pcs. medium sized potatoes
1-2 carrots
200 grams of Adyghe cheese
bunch of young nettles
30 gr butter
approximately 1 tbsp. spoon of coarse salt
spices: ground black pepper to taste, 2 bay leaves
sour cream

Boil water and add diced potatoes.
Skim off the foam, add carrots cut into small cubes, Bay leaf and butter.

Wash the nettles and remove thick stems, if any. Do not cut it very finely. To prevent the nettle from stinging, you can pour boiling water over it, but it is better not to do this in order to preserve more vitamins, and cut it with rubber gloves.

Cut Adyghe cheese (paneer) into cubes.

When the vegetables in the pan become soft and can be easily pierced with a knife (after 10 minutes), add cheese, nettles and salt. Let simmer for another 5 minutes and turn off.

Sprinkle with freshly ground black pepper and serve with sour cream.

That's all! Nettle soup is prepared very quickly and turns out tasty and satisfying. At the end of cooking, by the way, you can add sorrel, it will be even tastier and healthier.

OAT PANCAKES WITH NETTLE AND QUONA

Pour a little boiling water into the oatmeal and place it until it swells.
At this time, wash and chop the young nettles, quinoa and green garlic feathers.
Add chopped herbs, salt, one egg and a spoonful of rast to our oatmeal mass. oils
Knead the pancakes.
Place our pancakes with a spoon onto a frying pan heated with vegetable oil. Fry on both sides until golden crust.

COOK WITH NETTLE

Rub 200 grams of cottage cheese through a sieve, mix the curd mass with a glass of finely chopped nettle leaves. Add 3 finely chopped garlic cloves, 3 tbsp. l. vegetable oil and 1 tsp. mustard.

SIMPLY NETTLE SALAD:

You will need: young nettle, green onions, dill, parsley, vegetable oil, pepper, salt.
Wash the nettle leaves thoroughly and scald with boiling water, chop finely, combine with finely chopped dill, parsley and green onions, add salt, pepper and season with oil.

NETTLE SALAD WITH NUTS AND GARLIC

You will need: 500 g of nettle leaves, 50 g of parsley and dill, 4 cloves of garlic, 1-2 kernels walnut, 3-4 tbsp. vegetable oil, 1 tbsp. lemon juice, salt.

Rinse the nettles and place in salted boiling water, boil for 3-4 minutes, remove with a slotted spoon, drain in a colander, mash slightly, and transfer to a bowl. Mix the oil with crushed garlic and salt, add the mixture to the nettles along with chopped dill and parsley, as well as crushed nuts, sprinkle with lemon juice.

NETTLE SALAD WITH WALNUTS AND ONIONS

Place washed nettle leaves in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, place on a sieve, chop with a knife, put in a salad bowl, chop green onions and combine with nettles. Dilute crushed walnut kernels in 0.25 cups of nettle decoction, add vinegar, mix and season the nettles with the resulting mixture in a salad bowl. Sprinkle with finely chopped herbs.
Young nettle – 800 g, green onion – 120 g, parsley – 80 g, shelled walnuts – 100 g, herbs, salt to taste.

NETTLE SALAD WITH EGG
Place nettle leaves in boiling water for 1-2 minutes and place on a sieve. Then chop, season with vinegar, place slices of boiled eggs on top, pour over sour cream.
Young nettle – 600 g, eggs – 4 pcs., sour cream – 80 g, vinegar, salt to taste.

PICKLED NETTLE

You will need 100 g of salt, 5 kg of nettle, 2 g of caraway seeds, 150 g of apples, 150 g of carrots, bay leaf, allspice and 50 g of cranberries or lingonberries.

Wash young nettle shoots and place in an enamel bowl along with apples, carrots, cranberries or lingonberries, bay leaves, cumin, salt and pepper. Then apply pressure. After 2 weeks, nettle can be used in cabbage soup, for seasoning fish and meat dishes.

NETTLE OIL FOR SANDWICHES

Take 2 tbsp. l. nettle leaves and finely chop or mince, and then mix with 100 grams of soft butter. Add a little grated horseradish to your taste and you get " green oil» for spreading bread slices.

PLANTAIN AND NETTLE SALAD WITH ONION
Place plantain and nettle in boiling water for 1 minute, place in a sieve, chop and add chopped onion and horseradish. Season with salt and dill, sprinkle with chopped eggs, pour over sour cream.
Young plantain leaves – 250 g, nettle – 200 g, onion – 250 g, horseradish – 100 g, eggs – 2 pcs., sour cream – 80 g, vinegar, salt to taste.

NETTLE JUICE
Wash young nettle shoots and pass through a juicer. Pour boiled water over the pomace, pass through a meat grinder and squeeze again. Mix the juices of the first and second pressings, pour into scalded 0.5 liter jars and pasteurize at a temperature of 65-70°C. Store jars of juice in a cool place.
These juices are used to prepare various seasonings, sauces and drinks.

MOLDAVIAN BORSCH WITH NETTLES
Wash the prepared young nettle leaves and pass through a meat grinder.
Place rice in boiling water, cook for 10 minutes, add diced potatoes, sautéed roots, and onions. tomato puree, salt, add sorrel leaves, 3 minutes before readiness, add the prepared nettle mass to the soup, boil.
Serve with sour cream

NETTLE SOUP PUREE (Bulgarian cuisine)
Boil young nettle shoots and rub through a sieve. Fry the flour in butter, dilute with nettle decoction, mix with puree, add salt and cook for 5 minutes. When serving, add butter to the soup.
For 250 g of nettle - 3 tbsp. spoons of flour, 3 tbsp. spoons of butter.

NETTLE PIE FILLING
Pour boiling water over young nettle shoots, drain the water, chop the nettles and mix with boiled rice. Add finely chopped eggs, salt and season with melted butter.
For 1 kg. nettles - 100 g rice, 5 eggs, 60 g butter, salt to taste.

FRIED EGGS WITH NETTLES
Scald and chop young nettles. Lightly fry finely chopped onions in a frying pan, add prepared nettles, coriander, salt, ghee, and simmer everything. Then pour in the eggs and fry until done.
For 150 g of nettle - 20 g of ghee, 30 g of onions, 2 eggs, salt and coriander to taste.

A rich set of biologically active elements explains the wide range of restorative and therapeutic properties of nettle. Nettle allows you to restore the functions of vital organs and normalize the functioning of the body as a whole.

However, when using nettle, you should know that it thickens our blood, so people with problems with blood vessels, heart, and hypertension are not recommended to use it frequently. Pregnant women should not eat it either, because it can provoke premature contractions.

Here's a video on how to eat nettles

Content

Very useful plant is nettle - medicinal properties and the contraindications of its leaves, roots, and herbs are worth studying in more detail for proper use. Even as a weed, it is actively used for medicinal purposes. A peculiarity of the plant is the presence of burning hairs on almost the entire surface. Nettle is sold in pharmacies in different forms, often it is prepared independently. To achieve the effect, you need to know not only contraindications and healing properties nettle, but also recipes for preparing products based on it.

What properties does nettle have?

Contraindications and medicinal properties of stinging and stinging nettle have been known since antiquity. The Greeks used its varieties to increase potency in men, the Romans - to relieve pain or warm up. Russian herbalists valued this burning weed for its minimum contraindications, hemostatic and wound-healing properties. To “burn out” the disease, it was customary to hit each other with nettles. The list of medicinal properties of this herb includes the following:

• Thanks to the vitamin A content, it supports good vision;
• helps in creating all the elastic structures of the body, connective tissue;
• acts as an antioxidant due to the large amount of vitamin C;
• helps speed up calorie burning;
• thins the blood, which is useful for varicose veins;
• speeds up metabolism;
• reduces the amount of sugar in the blood in the treatment of diabetes;
• in the form of masks eliminates skin inflammation;
• increases hemoglobin content;
• increases lactation of lactating women.

Chemical composition

The medicinal properties and contraindications of the plant are manifested due to its rich chemical composition, which contains vitamins, sets of micro- and macroelements, and amino acids. They have a general strengthening effect, so this herb is even used to prevent various diseases. It includes 9 out of 10 essential acids, which, in the absence of contraindications, ensures maintenance of high level intellectual and physical performance. Chemical composition contains:

• protein;
• lignin;
• fiber;
• carbohydrates;
• threonine;
• glycine;
• calcium;
• beta carotene;
• cystine;
• potassium;
• magnesium;
• nickel;
• cobalt;
• manganese;
• zinc;
• iron;
• copper.

Application

Traditional medicine uses all parts of nettle: leaves, stems, roots. The pharmaceutical industry offers several medicinal drugs based on this plant:

1. Liquid extract. It is a tincture of plant leaves with the addition of 70% ethyl alcohol.
2. Filter packages. Used for brewing nettle teas.
3. Briquettes from leaves. They are crushed compressed raw materials. It is filled with water, then left to infuse for 10 minutes, after which it is filtered.
4. Dried leaves, seeds or roots. They are often used to strengthen hair.
5. The drug Allohol. It is a nettle extract with garlic, activated carbon and dry animal bile. Used as a laxative or choleretic agent.

What are the benefits of nettle for the body?

Even with a number of contraindications, the plant has many medicinal properties. Different parts contain specific substances that have a specific effect on human health. Due to the small number of contraindications, leaves, roots or seeds are used in medicine. In general, they have the following effects on the body:

• normalize lipid metabolism;
• increase blood clotting;
• have a diuretic effect;
• increase intestinal tone;
• have an anti-inflammatory effect;
• thanks to phytoncides, a bactericidal effect is manifested;
• improve respiratory and cardiac activity;
• accelerate tissue healing;
• increase hemoglobin;
• stimulate and tone, activate metabolism..

Leaves

The stinging leaves contain large amounts of ascorbic acid, useful microelements, B vitamins, organic acids. The main medicinal substance is chlorophyll, due to which nettle leaves have a general strengthening and restorative effect. In addition, they enhance the activity of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems. Infusions or decoctions of the leaves are effective for acne due to their antiseptic and wound-healing effects. Nettle green tea helps in the treatment of anemia, gout, nervous disorders, cough, bronchitis, suffocation.

Root

The roots of this plant also have medicinal properties. Syrup or tincture of them activates the functioning of the gallbladder and liver, improves appetite, and has a mild laxative effect. The root has a choleretic effect. This is especially useful for liver diseases. The root also enhances the production of interferon, which protects the body from the penetration of viruses.

Seeds

The seeds contain about 78% linoleic acid, oils, and flavonoids. As for their benefits, they are effective for improving potency and strengthening erections. In addition, nettle and prostate adenoma are treated, as well as a number of other diseases of the male reproductive system. Main medicinal properties of seeds:

• normalize the female monthly cycle;
• relieve swelling;
• stop internal and external bleeding;
• exhibit antihistamine effects;
• increase performance.

Healing properties of nettle

The medicinal properties of nettle are very numerous, and contraindications are presented in a small list, so treatment with it is effective for diseases of different body systems. The benefits of the plant include the following effects:

• improved kidney function;
• increased uterine tone;
• eliminating constipation;
• decreased stomach acidity;
• stops hemoptysis in tuberculosis;
• relieves itching due to allergies;
• narrows the walls of blood vessels;
• stimulates the muscles of the heart.

Decoction

For external or internal use, you can use nettle decoction. It is prepared from seeds, leaves or roots. Externally, the decoction is used in the form of baths, warm poultices, lotions or compresses. It is effective in cases of lichen, eczema, burns, and urticaria. Taking the decoction internally is useful for hemorrhoids, furunculosis, swelling, and heart pathologies. For healthy person this remedy can be used to prevent vitamin deficiency.

The ability of nettle infusion to stop bleeding is ensured by a large amount of vitamin K. If you add additional lingonberries during brewing, you will get an excellent antibacterial agent. Other properties of nettle infusion:

• restores hair strength and shine;
• fights fungal infections;
• strengthens hair follicles;
• soothes muscle pain and headaches.

Infusion

Heat treatment leads to the destruction of some medicinal components, so nettle infusion is much more beneficial. The grass or roots are infused with an alcohol base, leaving for several days at room temperature in a place protected from light. The finished product can be used for compresses to relieve pain. They even rub the infusion to warm the extremities.

Syrup

You can find this remedy at the pharmacy or make it yourself. In the latter case, honey is additionally used for preparation. The finished syrup is effective in gynecology in women with uterine bleeding and infertility. It also helps in strengthening the body after childbirth, with vitamin deficiency and hormonal imbalances. In general, this remedy has a general strengthening and multivitamin effect.

Juice

Young shoots and fresh nettle leaves are passed through a juicer. Drinking fresh juice improves blood clotting, helps strengthen the body and speed up metabolism. In addition, this product has a hemostatic and expectorant effect. Nettle juice can be used as a mouth rinse, nasal drops or as a lotion on wounds, trophic ulcers, bedsores or burns.

Nettle treatment

The beneficial properties of nettle are used in the treatment of a wide variety of diseases of almost all body systems. The form in which the herb will be used depends on the specific pathology. Stinging nettle is used to prepare decoctions, tinctures, juice or syrup. Each of them is taken according to a specific scheme, so that the course of treatment has a truly positive effect.

For liver diseases

To treat liver diseases, nettle is used in the form of decoctions. They can have different concentrations, so the cooking recipes also differ:

1. Steam 1 tablespoon of leaves with a glass of boiling water and boil for 1 minute. Infuse the product for about half an hour. Take 1-2 tbsp after each meal.
2. Prepare 2 tbsp. dry raw materials, pour a glass of boiling water, then simmer for another 15 minutes in a water bath. When finished, let stand for 1 hour, strain and drink 100 ml before each meal.

For joint diseases

1. Take a glass jar and fill it with leaves without compacting it. Pour enough vodka on top so that it covers all the grass to the top. Leave for 12 days in a dark place, shake periodically. Use before bed for rubbing and compresses.
2. Pass enough leaves through a meat grinder to make 4 tbsp. juice Next add 4 tbsp to it. port wine, 2 tbsp. birch sap and 4 ice cubes. Divide the resulting cocktail into 2 servings to drink throughout the day.

For stomach ulcers

In case of exacerbation of gastric ulcer or gastritis, treatment with nettle infusion is indicated. You can prepare it in different ways:

1. Pour 1 tbsp with a glass of boiling water. fresh leaves, simmer them in a water bath for about 10 minutes, cool until warm. Use 1 tbsp before meals. up to 4 times during the day.
2. Mix mint, St. John's wort, knotweed and nettle in equal proportions. About 4 tbsp. Pour the resulting mixture with a liter of boiling water and leave for a couple of hours. Take a teaspoon of the product 4 times a day before each meal, diluting with 100 ml of water.

For dandruff

In cosmetology, in case of hair loss, weakening and dullness or dandruff, it is very useful to rinse your hair after washing with nettle infusions. They are prepared according to the following recipes:

1. Pour a bunch of dried or fresh herbs with cold water and boil for 3-5 minutes over low heat. Cool to a comfortable temperature, then rinse your hair with the broth after shampooing.
2. Pour 2 tbsp into a container. crushed leaves, add half a liter of boiling water. Leave the product for half an hour, then pour in 5 tbsp. vinegar and strain the solution. Rinse your hair with the broth every evening, then wrap it until completely dry.

From heel spurs

1. Pour a small amount of water into 2 tbsp. starch, add 2 tbsp. dried nettles. Fill the container with 2 liters of hot water. Soak your feet in the resulting mixture for 15 minutes, then wipe and roll a small elastic ball with your feet.
2. Take May nettle and pass it through a meat grinder. Next, put the resulting pulp on a burdock leaf, make a compress from it on the sore spot, secure with a bandage and leave overnight. Repeat the procedures for 2 weeks.

For nervous diseases

Nettle infusion stimulates work nervous system. The following options for preparing such a remedy are considered more effective:

1. Wash and dry the young shoots of the plant, chop them finely and put them in a jar. Pour in cold boiled water and cover with gauze on top. Let it brew for 10 hours at room temperature. Use 0.5 tbsp. up to 3 times a day.
2. Take a tablespoon of nettle seeds and add a glass of water. Boil the mixture over low heat for 10 minutes. Let stand for 1 hour, then add a spoonful of honey. Drink half a glass of the product before bed.

To boost immunity

There are several recipes folk remedies and to strengthen the immune system. Especially good reviews among them the following are used:

1. Take about 200 g of young nettle, add half a liter of vodka or 70% alcohol to it. Wrap a cloth around the neck of the jar, leave it on the windowsill for a day, then put it in a dark place for 8 days. Strain, take 1 teaspoon on an empty stomach half an hour before breakfast and another one before bed.
2. Mix raisins, nettles and rose hips in equal parts. Take 2 tbsp. means, pour 2 cups of boiling water, boil for another 10 minutes. After 4 hours, strain. Drink half a glass up to 4 times a day.

To thicken the blood

It is useful to add this plant to soups, main courses and salads. In spring and summer, the following recipes can be used to thicken the blood:

1. Take the nettle stem and leaves, rinse and dry, then grind through a meat grinder. Squeeze the juice and take several spoons a day.
2. Prepare 1 tbsp. dry herb, add a glass of boiling water to it, leave for a couple of hours. Next, strain and take 3-4 tbsp. during the day.

For radiculitis

In the treatment of radiculitis, this herb is often used externally as compresses and rubbing. For this purpose, products based on this plant are prepared as follows:

1. Wash and dry fresh nettles, then finely chop and place in a half-liter jar. Fill it to the brim with vodka, then put it in a cool, dark place for 3 weeks. At night, rub the problem area with the prepared product.
2. Take a few nettle leaves, wash and dry them, then chop and mix with hot capsicum and petroleum jelly in a ratio of 2:1:1. Rub the resulting ointment onto your lower back up to 2 times a day. The course of treatment lasts until the pain disappears completely.

Contraindications

Any medicinal plants have a number of contraindications. Using them in some cases can cause harm to the body. The main contraindications to the use of this plant are:

• therapy with antidepressants and drugs against insomnia;
• hypertension;
• plant intolerance;
• severe kidney disease;
• varicose veins;
• first trimester of pregnancy;
• thrombophlebitis;
• atherosclerosis;
• increased blood clotting;
• bleeding due to a uterine tumor, cyst or polyp.

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The beginning of May is the time to help the body, weakened over the long winter, replenish the lack of vitamins and nutrients; in this article we will recall forgotten recipes for nettle dishes. Let's discuss their benefits, find out who should not eat nettles, how to select and prepare raw materials for use.

Stinging nettle is a herbaceous perennial plant. People call it sting, sting. Distributed everywhere, growing near housing, near roads and vacant lots, in shady places and in gardens. This is not a simple weed, but a multivitamin plant that can be used for food purposes with early spring, until October.

This weed has been eaten since ancient times. She saved from hunger in war time and in lean years. The plant has not only healing life-giving powers, but also nutritional properties. They used it as an independent product and to enrich other dishes.

What are the benefits of nettle (Urtica dioica L.)

Nettle's content of vitamins and microelements is not inferior to berries and fruits. It surpasses many legumes in protein content. It is high in fiber, which promotes normal bowel function and creates a feeling of fullness.

Urtica dioica juice is a good aid in losing weight. Since its calorie content is only 24 kcal and almost complete absence carbohydrates, it is ideal for dietary nutrition.
To understand the benefits of nettle, let’s find out its composition. The herb is rich in vitamins:

• retinol (vit A)
• nicotinic acid (vit PP)
• thiamine (vit B1)
• ascorbic acid (vit C)
• riboflavin (vit B2)

There's a lot in it minerals– Ca, Mg, K, Na, Fe, P, J, selenium. The herb drives bile well, increases resistance to bacteria and viruses, and immunity. Stimulates the metabolism of carbohydrates and proteins, accelerates the flow of energy processes.

Is not full list beneficial properties of the plant, and they are preserved in culinary products. That's why it's so popular among fans healthy image life.

Who would not be interested in recipes for nettle dishes, contraindications

Despite the obvious benefits, nettle recipes are not suitable for everyone. You should not eat it:

1. pregnant women
2. suffering from thrombophlebitis
3. patients with hypertension

Because it increases blood clotting, and in addition can provoke premature birth. It is also contraindicated for kidney disease. People with allergies will also have to pass by the stream.

You can start harvesting nettles for culinary purposes from May until late autumn. It is better to do this in environmentally friendly places. Away from roads and industrial facilities. Otherwise, instead of benefit, we will gain harm.

You can collect grass at the edges of forests, along river banks and in your gardens. You should choose a healthy plant:

• leaves should be free of foreign inclusions, evenly colored; withered leaves will also have no benefit
• the stem should be strong, densely leafy
• It is necessary to collect nettles at the growth stage of up to 20 cm, it contains a higher content of useful substances
• The optimal collection time is morning, after rain and dew has dried.

Cut the grass with a sharp knife. A short time after cutting, the stinging sensation goes away and the leaves can be separated from the stem.

How to prepare nettles for use

Before use, sort the plant and rinse under running water. Distinctive feature The problem is that it is covered with stinging, brittle hairs, so wear rubber gloves.

To get rid of this heat, rinse it before cooking. hot water or soak in boiling water for several minutes. Then let the water drain and lay it on a towel to dry. After this simple procedure, the stinging sensation will disappear.

Experienced housewives have long learned to use nettle in cooking. Each has its own set of delicious recipes.

These are all kinds of soups, salads, main courses. They use it as a filling for pies, dumplings, and dumplings. Pilaf and porridge are cooked and added to sauces.

They make purees and juices from it, and brew it as a delicious tea. It is fermented and frozen for the winter. They make butter for sandwiches from it. You can make hair oil, but that’s another, non-culinary story.

First meal

Soups made from nettles are especially tasty. It gives them a subtle sourness and delicate aroma. You can prepare soups with meat or broth. Or it can be made without meat, which will especially appeal to vegetarians.

First courses are prepared for one serving, because after heating they lose their taste and attractiveness.

Nettle soup “Spring”

We already know where and how to collect raw materials, so let’s move directly to the recipe. To prepare you will need:

• bunch of string – 300 grams
• 3 small potatoes
• onion, 1 carrot
• water or broth
• dill, parsley optional

Cook the potatoes until done. Add onions and carrots pre-fried in oil. If you cooked it without meat, you can add rice or pearl barley, the soup will turn out even tastier and more satisfying. Even at the beginning of cooking, you can add 100 grams of cheese. 5 minutes before readiness, add nettles and salt. When serving, add an egg.

Fresh nettle cabbage soup

Cabbage soup made from May nettle herb is very useful if you prepare it skillfully. They can also be cooked with or without meat. We will need:

• bunch of sting 300-500 grams
• potato
• onion, dill, parsley
• 1 onion
• salt, lemon juice, pepper to taste
• egg 1, carrot 1
• butter

In a saucepan in butter, fry the chopped onions and carrots, as you are used to. Add the potatoes cut into strips and simmer for 5 minutes. Pour broth over the stewed vegetables and cook for 10 minutes. And after the vegetables are ready, add chopped greens and nettles.
Add lemon juice, pepper, salt to taste and cook for another 3 minutes. When serving, add finely chopped egg and sour cream.

Second courses

You can prepare a large number of main dishes from nettles. These are purees, pilaf, snacks and much more.

Spicy nettle with rice

Prepare the string, wash it, chop it. Pour boiling water over it and let the water drain. Keep it on a hot frying pan for 2 minutes. Add oil, herbs, pepper and rice. Pour in water and cook over low heat until done. You will need:

• bunch of nettle grass 500 grams
• butter 40-50 grams
• parsley, pepper
• rice 200 grams
• flour 15 grams

Finally, add flour diluted with cold water and bring to a boil. Simmer for another 5 minutes. Add minced garlic if desired.

Scrambled eggs nettle

Make scrambled eggs with nettles for breakfast very quickly. To do this, prepare:

1. onion 1 head
2. bunch of nettles
3. celery or parsley
4. egg - two pieces
5. sweet pepper, salt

Fry the onion in a hot frying pan, add chopped nettles and other greens. Mix everything and simmer for 7-8 minutes. Beat in the eggs and simmer until done.

Green sauce

Nettle sauces are suitable for potato, meat and fish dishes or pasta. Take:

• nettle leaves 400 grams
• 20 grams of flour
• butter 40-50 grams
• glass of sour cream

Grind fresh leaves scalded with boiling water in a meat grinder. Simmer in butter. Add flour diluted with a small amount of water, simmer until thickened. Pour in sour cream and simmer for 5 minutes. Add mustard, it will be even tastier.

And how many nettle salads can you come up with? It all depends on how filling you want it to be and what you have in the fridge. It is important to remember that only young leaves and shoots are suitable for salad. Young tops have more vitamins and nutrients.

Nettle and bean salad

This salad is suitable for those who lead an active lifestyle and play sports. Beans and nettles complement each other. Thanks to the enzymes contained in nettle leaves, bean vegetable protein is easier to digest. For the salad you will need:

1. nettle 100 gr.
2. bunch of green onions
3. vegetable oil, olive
4. boiled or canned beans
5. lemon juice, a little salt

Prepare the sting as usual by tearing it with your hands. Chop the onion. Add beans, sprinkle with lemon juice. Pour in the oil.
The salad turns out to be satisfying and easily digestible. The feeling of hunger does not come for a long time. Suitable for those who want to lose weight.

Salad "Ordinary"

For the salad you will need:

• fresh nettle leaves
• onion, parsley, dill
• vegetable or olive oil
• salt pepper

Pour boiling water over nettle leaves. Chop everything and mix in a bowl. Season with oil, salt and pepper to taste. You can add radishes, nuts, garlic, cheese, egg. In a word, improvise!

Filling for pies, dumplings and butter for sandwiches

Few housewives make pies filled with nettles, but in vain. It is easy to prepare.

Green filling

Chop fresh shoots and leaves, scalded with boiling water. Add boiled rice and chopped eggs, salt and butter.

Green sandwich butter

Sandwiches with nettle oil will be useful for breakfast. Take butter, mix with finely chopped nettle leaves. To enhance the taste, add grated horseradish or garlic.

And what drinks are made from this weedy grass! A real storehouse of vitamins and microelements.

Green kefir

To help your intestines after a busy winter, prepare this drink. Take finely chopped nettle leaves and shoots, parsley, dill, dandelion and spinach in equal proportions. Add 500 ml cold kefir and blend in a blender. Add some salt.
First, pour boiling water over the nettles and dandelions, adding a small amount of salt, to get rid of the bitterness.

Nettle juice

To prepare multivitamin juice, take young nettle shoots and leaves. Rinse, pass through a juicer, add salt to taste. Sterilize the juice for 15 minutes at 70º, it will become suitable for winter storage. To prepare you will need:

1. 1 kg. finished plant raw materials
2. 1000 ml. cold water, salt

Add water, salt to the juice squeezed out through a juicer, and set to sterilize.

Tea tonic

Nettle tea can be drunk all year round. In spring and summer from fresh, in winter from dry grass. To do this, brew 25 grams of boiling water. fresh or dry leaves. Leave for 5 minutes. Drink warm. Don't forget about contraindications.

Preparation for the winter

In spring and summer, you need to have time to prepare nettles for the winter. Everyone knows how to dry raw materials. And we will freeze and marinate.

1. Frozen nettle retains all the benefits of the plant. Young spring leaves are suitable for this. They are thoroughly washed, dried, and cut. Spread in a thin layer on cling film, wrap. And they are sent to the freezer.

2. Pickled nettle is another method of preparation. IN winter time it is added to any dishes. The tops of young shoots are collected for pickling. Wash in hot water. Pack tightly into sterile ½ liter. banks. Pour boiling water over and sit for 10-12 minutes.
Next, drain the water into a saucepan, add 9% vinegar, salt and sugar, and boil. Pour brine over nettle leaves and shoots. Roll up the lids. Send “under a fur coat” for 1 hour. That's it, the supply of vitamins for the winter is ready.

Well, some tips for preparing nettles. To make the cooking process enjoyable and the result pleasing:

1. Nettle cannot be cooked for a long time, as this will destroy the most valuable substances, so add it 3 minutes before it is ready
2. If you finely tear the nettle leaves and stems with your hands, you will be able to preserve vit A as much as possible
3. in May, fresh young nettle leaves are used, and in summer, leaves and young shoots are used, cutting off their tops by 10 - 15 centimeters
4. Nettle should be cooked in enamel or heat-resistant glass containers; it is not advisable to use metal containers (copper or aluminum) for this purpose.
5. To prepare first courses, you should not pour boiling water over the plant; it is better to use gloves to cut it
6. It is advisable to salt the dish at the end of cooking, or better before serving

By following these simple tips, you will prepare a lot of delicious, vitamin-rich food.
I suggest watching a video about the benefits of nettles:

So we remembered forgotten recipes for nettle dishes. We discussed their benefits, learned who should not eat nettles, and how to select and prepare raw materials for use.

Don't miss the moment, treat yourself to nettle dishes now, prepare it for future use and be healthy!