ENGLISH NAME: Stinging Nettle
LATIN NAME: Urtica dioica
LOCAL NAMES:
Czechia: Kopřiva dvoudomá
Turkey: Isırgan otu
Bulgaria: Коприва (Kopriva)
Georgia: ჭინჭარი (Chinchari)
COUNTRY: Turkey,
Bulgaria, Czechia, Georgia
WHERE TO FIND IT:
Region: Widespread
across Europe and Eurasia
Elevation: 100–1,500 meters
Terrain: Weedy and
disturbed areas, roadsides, ditches, scrubland, gardens, unmaintained
vegetation
DESCRIPTION:
Stinging Nettle is a tall, herbaceous perennial that grows between 1 to 2
meters in height. It features serrated, opposite leaves covered in fine,
stinging hairs that inject histamine and formic acid upon contact, causing a
burning sensation. The plant bears small green flowers in dense clusters and
spreads rapidly through rhizomes.
USABLE PARTS: Leaf
MEDICINAL
PROPERTIES:
Rich in vitamins (A, C, K) and minerals (iron, calcium, magnesium), nettle has
been traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory, diuretic, antihistamine, and
nourishing properties. Common in treatments for arthritis, urinary issues, allergies,
and anemia.
UNDESIRED EFFECTS:
Can cause skin irritation when touched without gloves. Rare allergic reactions
may occur when ingested. Handle with care and avoid harvesting near polluted
areas.
COMBINING WITH
OTHER MEDICINES:
Often combined with dandelion or horsetail for detox and kidney support, or
with elderflower in allergy formulas.
PREPARATION:
Young leaves are dried and used in teas, soups, broths, or capsules. Cooking or
drying neutralizes the stinging hairs.
HARVEST TIME:
Early to mid-spring when leaves are young and tender. Can also be harvested
again in late summer after regrowth.
HARVEST METHOD:
Wear gloves. Cut upper young shoots or pick tender top leaves. Avoid plants
near roads or industrial zones. Rinse and dry before use.
CONSERVATION
(STORAGE):
Dry leaves in a well-ventilated, shaded area. Store in airtight containers in a
cool, dry place. Best used within 1 year.