The health benefits and uses of nettle leaves also known as stinging nettle.

1. Many of us have been stung on the skin by nettle leaves at some point in our lives, however they can be cooked to provide some wonderful health benefits.

2. Nettle leaves come from the urtica dioica, a flowering plant native to Europe, Asia, North Africa and North America.

3. Many people consider this plant to be a weed, but it was used as a natural medicine in Austria, and 10th Century England, and is still used today.

4. The leaves are known for stinging the skin when touched. This is caused by formic acid and histamines which cause a reaction on the skin.

5. When they are cooked they become perfectly safe to eat and no longer have the stinging effect.

6. They are very healthy containing Vitamin A, B6, calcium, iron and magnesium.

7. Men who suffer with an enlarged prostate have found that nettle tea works well to ease the symptoms and prevent painful urination.

8. Nettle tea is made by adding 2 cups of boiled water to 1 cup of nettle leaves. You can also use the roots in this tea if they are well cleaned.

9. Drinking this will help to treat osteoarthritis and muscular pain due to its anti-inflammatory effects. It has been said this can often work better than drugs.

10. If you suffer with anaemia, eating natural foods such as this will help to boost your iron intake, without the need for supplements.

11. Many people drink this tea during the spring and summer time, as it can prevent hay fever and allergic reactions to pollen.

12. The roots of the nettle plant can be soaked in alcohol to make an antibacterial solution for wounds. 

13. These roots can also be made into creams that can be rubbed onto aching joints. 

14. You can add nettle leaves to delicious stews, soups, smoothies, omelettes, salads and many more. Be sure to cook these first using some olive oil for 1-2 minutes until they become wilted. Never eat these raw.

15. I would also recommend to use smaller younger leaves for the best effects, as these have a better taste.

16. If you drink nettle tea often, you can prevent kidney stones and urinary tract infections. They work as a diuretic, allowing the body to flush out toxins easily.

17. The skin will also become very healthy, preventing oil build ups which cause pimples.

18. It was perhaps most well-known historically for its ability to help nursing mothers product healthy milk for their babies. This also helps to prevent cramps and menstrual pain.

19. Ladies who are in the menopause may also find nettle tea useful as it can help the body to process the elevated levels of the oestrogen hormone. 

20. You can also purchase nettle leaves in capsules, and tablet forms if you prefer. It’s best to take these with food, rather than on an empty stomach.

21. To learn more about healthy herbs please see our other videos.