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Stinging Nettle a perennial native to Europe and the United States has been used traditionally as a diuretic, astringent, blood builder and in treating anemia because of its high iron content. It has been used in the form of dried leaves or juice extracted from the leaves.
In addition the powdered leaves fresh leaf juice have been applied to cuts to stop bleeding, drank as a tea to reduce menstrual bleeding and in treating nosebleeds and hemorroids.
Recently studies have found that the leaf tea aids in coagulation and formation of hemoglobin in red blood cells. Stinging nettle diuretic activities has shown increased excretion of chlorides and urea in animals. The high potassium content and flavonoids may be what contributes to its diuretic action. In Europe it is used to help in the treatment of kidney infections.
New research studies have found that this herb helps in relief of urinary difficulties associated with early stages of benign prostate hyperplasia(BPH). It does not effect or decrease the enlargement of the prostate but increases the urinary output and decreases the urge at night.
Cautions: Fresh nettle leaves sting as we all probably know and the sting lasts up to about an hour after coming in contact with the skin. What makes the nettle sting are the compounds in the nettle such as histamine, 5-hydroxytryptamine, acetylcholine and small amounts of formic acid and leukotrienes. All of this together gives that awful sting we feel when touched. There are no side effects known to the medical field if touched.
The dried leaf is used as a tea, capsule, or tablet. There are tinctures available as well. This herb is found on the market recently combined with saw palmetto. A daily recommended dosage of 1-2 tablespoons of the dried herb is used for supporting in the treatment of inflamation of the urinary tract. Preparation of the root dosage is about 1 tablespoon in tea 2-3 times daily.
Always consult a physician before using any kind of herb as a treatment.
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