A diuretic for bladder and kidney problems, and for rheumatism
Disclaimer: This information is in no way intended to be a substitute for modern medical care. Do not self-treat any medical complaint without the guidance of a licensed health care provider.
All information provided in this article is the result of research using (but not limited to) the following books and guides: Herbs for Health and Healing, Rodale; Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs, Scott Cunningham; Magical Herbalism, Scott Cunningham; The Complete Guide to Natural Healing, International Masters Publishers; Earthway, Mary Summer Rain; and Teach Yourself Herbs, Susie White.
The nettle, also known as the "stinging-nettle," is useful both as a medicinal plant and a food. However, because the leaves are covered in stinging hairs, the plant is often misidentified as a weed. Its special properties include the ability to protect against disease and bad luck, as well as to repel pests. Nettle preparations are also recommended for alleviating enlarged prostate pain. However, don't ignore medical checkups; nettle relieves pain but does not treat the actual disorder.
Plant Facts
The perennial nettle plant has a green, pungent aroma, and a slightly bitter taste. It can grow to a height of 5 feet. The fresh leaves and stems of the plant are covered with hairs that contain formic acid, which causes a burning sensation to the skin when touched.
Occurrence
The nettle is found in moderate climate zones throughout the world. It grows along paths, on roadsides, in pastures, in clear-cut areas and on the banks of rivers and streams.
Plant parts used
The leaves and shoots of the nettle plant are used medicinally, while in folk medicine, the seeds and roots are also used.
Components
The leaves contain diuretic flavonoids, silicate and histamine-like substances. The formic acid in the plant hairs promotes good circulation. The roots contain tannins, while the seeds are rich in the mineral iron, vitamins C and B and carotenoids, which may help fight cancer by neutralizing free radicals.
Indication
The medicinal effects of nettle are as diverse as the places where it grows. It strengthens the immune system and is helpful for rheumatism, gout, gallbladder and liver pain. Nettle tea treatments increase urination and help relieve prostate complaints. A spring treatment with nettle juice or nettle tea is revitalizing; it will nourish the blood and chase away the fatigue and restlessness typical of the season.
Methods of Administration
Magickal Uses:
Folk Names: Stinging Nettle
Gender:Masculine
Planet: Mars
Element: Fire
Deity: Thor
Powers: Exorcism, Protection, Healing, Lust
Disclaimer: This information is in no way intended to be a substitute for modern medical care. Do not self-treat any medical complaint without the guidance of a licensed health care provider.
All information provided in this article is the result of research using (but not limited to) the following books and guides: Herbs for Health and Healing, Rodale; Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs, Scott Cunningham; Magical Herbalism, Scott Cunningham; The Complete Guide to Natural Healing, International Masters Publishers; Earthway, Mary Summer Rain; and Teach Yourself Herbs, Susie White.
The nettle, also known as the "stinging-nettle," is useful both as a medicinal plant and a food. However, because the leaves are covered in stinging hairs, the plant is often misidentified as a weed. Its special properties include the ability to protect against disease and bad luck, as well as to repel pests. Nettle preparations are also recommended for alleviating enlarged prostate pain. However, don't ignore medical checkups; nettle relieves pain but does not treat the actual disorder.
Plant Facts
The perennial nettle plant has a green, pungent aroma, and a slightly bitter taste. It can grow to a height of 5 feet. The fresh leaves and stems of the plant are covered with hairs that contain formic acid, which causes a burning sensation to the skin when touched.
Occurrence
The nettle is found in moderate climate zones throughout the world. It grows along paths, on roadsides, in pastures, in clear-cut areas and on the banks of rivers and streams.
Plant parts used
The leaves and shoots of the nettle plant are used medicinally, while in folk medicine, the seeds and roots are also used.
Components
The leaves contain diuretic flavonoids, silicate and histamine-like substances. The formic acid in the plant hairs promotes good circulation. The roots contain tannins, while the seeds are rich in the mineral iron, vitamins C and B and carotenoids, which may help fight cancer by neutralizing free radicals.
Indication
The medicinal effects of nettle are as diverse as the places where it grows. It strengthens the immune system and is helpful for rheumatism, gout, gallbladder and liver pain. Nettle tea treatments increase urination and help relieve prostate complaints. A spring treatment with nettle juice or nettle tea is revitalizing; it will nourish the blood and chase away the fatigue and restlessness typical of the season.
Methods of Administration
- Tea from leaves
For a diuretic and whole-body tonic and to build the blood, infuse 2 tsp. of chopped leaves in about 1 cup of boiling water for 15-20 minutes; strain. Drink 1 cup of the tea several times a day for 3-5 weeks. - Tea from roots
To treat mild prostate symptoms, stir 1 tsp. of pulverized root into cold water. Heat and simmer for approximately 10 minutes. Steep for 10 minutes more and strain. - Nettle seed wine
For a strengthener, crush about 2 oz. of ripe nettle seeds in a mortar and pestle and cover with 3 cups of white wine. Shake the mixture occasionally. Strain after about 3 weeks and add about 4 oz. of honey. Seal and store in a cool place. Drink 3 tbsp. 1-3 times daily. - Decoction
As a treatment for dandruff, boil together approximately 2 cups of wine vinegar with 4 cups of water and about 1/2 lb. of chopped nettle root for 30 minutes. Massage the decoction into the scalp; then rinse.
Magickal Uses:
Folk Names: Stinging Nettle
Gender:Masculine
Planet: Mars
Element: Fire
Deity: Thor
Powers: Exorcism, Protection, Healing, Lust
- The protective powers of the nettle have long been used in magick. To remove a curse and send it back, stuff a poppet with nettle, or carry some in a sachet.
- Also, sprinkle nettle around the house to keep out evil and to send it back. Nettle is also thrown onto a fire to avert danger, held in the hand to ward off ghosts, carried with yarrow to allay fear, and worn as an amulet to keep negativity away.
- A pot of freshly cut nettles placed beneath a sickbed will aid in the person's recovery.
- Nettle has sometimes been use as a lust inducing herb, and contemporary Mexican spiritualists recommend its use in purification baths because it is 'more carnivorous' than other herbs, and so will work more efficiently.
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