Nettle, scientifically known as Urtica dioica, is a nutrient-dense herb renowned for its anti-inflammatory, antihistamine, and skin-nourishing properties. Used for centuries in herbal medicine, nettle is particularly valued for its ability to soothe allergies, support hair growth, and improve skin health. Rich in vitamins, minerals, and bioactive compounds, nettle is a powerful natural remedy for a variety of ailments
Active Constituents and Medicinal Actions
Nettle’s therapeutic benefits stem from its rich phytochemical composition, including:
Flavonoids (Quercetin & Kaempferol) – Provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects
Histamine & Serotonin – Natural antihistamine actions to reduce allergies
Chlorophyll – Detoxifies the body and promotes skin healing
Vitamins (A, C, K, and B-complex) – Essential for skin, hair, and immune health
Minerals (Iron, Magnesium, Calcium, and Silica) – Strengthen bones, hair, and skin
Medicinal Actions
Nettle is widely used for its numerous therapeutic effects, including:
Antihistamine – Helps relieve seasonal allergies and skin reactions
Anti-inflammatory – Reduces swelling, redness, and pain
Detoxifying – Supports liver function and removes toxins from the body
Skin & Hair Rejuvenation – Helps promote healing, hydration, and hair growth
Blood-Building – Rich in iron, helping with anaemia and circulation
External Uses of Nettle
1. Skincare Benefits
Eczema & Psoriasis Relief: Soothes inflamed skin and reduces itching.
Acne Treatment: Nettle’s antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties help clear breakouts.
Anti-Aging Properties: Rich in antioxidants, nettle helps reduce fine lines and skin damage.
Wound Healing & Skin Repair: Enhances collagen production and soothes minor wounds, burns, and insect bites.
2. Hair & Scalp Health
Nettle is well known for its hair-strengthening and scalp-nourishing properties:
Stimulates Hair Growth: Improves circulation to hair follicles, encouraging growth and reducing hair loss.
Prevents Dandruff & Scalp Irritation: Antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties help soothe an itchy scalp.
Strengthens Hair: Helps reduce breakage, enhances shine, and improves hair thickness.
How to Use
Nettle-Infused Hair Rinse: Steep fresh or dried nettle in water, cool, and use as a final rinse for stronger, shinier hair.
Nettle Hair Oil: Massage nettle-infused oil into the scalp to promote growth and nourish hair.
Nettle Face Steam: Add dried nettle to hot water and use as a facial steam to clear pores and detoxify skin.
Internal Uses of Nettle
1. Allergy & Immune Support
Natural Antihistamine: Helps alleviate hay fever, hives, and seasonal allergies.
Immune Booster: Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants that support immune health.
2. Blood & Circulatory Health
Iron-Rich Remedy for Anemia: Helps combat fatigue and improve oxygen transport in the body.
Supports Circulation: Strengthens blood vessels and reduces inflammation in the cardiovascular system.
3. Detoxification & Digestive Health
Liver Cleanser: Helps flush out toxins and supports liver function.
Aids Digestion: Reduces bloating and supports gut health.
How to Use
Nettle Tea: Steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried nettle leaves in hot water for 10 minutes. Also great in pregnancy and post-partum to raise both iron and vitamin K levels, it combines well with raspberry leaf.
Tincture: Take a few drops diluted in water for allergy relief and immune support.
Nettle Soup: A nutrient-dense meal to boost iron levels and promote detoxification. Pop over to our blog page for recipe!
DIY Nettle Haircare Recipe
1. Nettle-Infused Oil for Hair Growth
Ingredients:
1 cup dried nettle leaves
1 cup carrier oil (e.g., olive, jojoba, or coconut oil)
Instructions:
Place nettle leaves in a clean jar and cover with oil.
Let it infuse for 4-6 weeks in a warm, dark place, shaking occasionally.
Strain and store in a glass bottle for use on scalp and hair.
Nettle (Urtica dioica) is a versatile and powerful herb with a wide range of skin, hair, and health benefits. Whether used topically for hair growth, as a skincare remedy, or internally for allergy relief and detoxification, nettle is an essential herb for natural wellness and it's completely free! When harvesting nettle in the wild always make sure you pick it away from dog walking routes, and wear gloves if you are sensitive, it makes a great alternative to spinach in cooking and quickly loses it's sting when steamed or wilted in oil or butter
Kate x
Medical Herbalist and Founder of The Drovers Daughter
Have you used nettle in your beauty or health routine? Share your experiences in the comments below!
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