ENGLISH NAME: White Deadnettle
LATIN NAME: Lamium album
LOCAL NAMES:
Czechia: Hluchavka bílá
Turkey: Beyaz ballıbaba
Bulgaria: Бяла мъртва коприва (Byala mŭrtva kopriva)
Georgia: თეთრი მკვდარი ჭინჭარი (Tet’ri mkvdari ch’inch’ari)
COUNTRY: Turkey,
Bulgaria, Czechia, Georgia
WHERE TO FIND IT:
Region: Common
throughout temperate and rural areas
Elevation: 150–1,200 meters
Terrain: Forest edges,
gardens, unmaintained grassy areas, disturbed soil zones
DESCRIPTION:
White Deadnettle is a herbaceous perennial that grows between 20 and 80 cm
tall. It has square stems, opposite serrated leaves resembling those of true
nettles, but without stinging hairs. Its showy, tubular white flowers grow in
whorls and feature a hood-like upper lip, blooming from late spring into
summer.
USABLE PARTS: Bloom, Stem
(aerial parts)
MEDICINAL
PROPERTIES:
Traditionally used for its mild diuretic, anti-inflammatory, and astringent
properties. Often applied to ease mild gastrointestinal discomfort, menstrual
cramps, or urinary issues.
UNDESIRED EFFECTS:
Generally considered safe; however, overuse may cause mild digestive upset in
sensitive individuals.
COMBINING WITH
OTHER MEDICINES:
Can be combined with yarrow, nettle, or lady’s mantle in women’s or urinary
support teas.
PREPARATION:
Aerial parts are dried and steeped in infusions or used as a component in
herbal mixtures for internal or external use.
HARVEST TIME:
Early to mid-summer, just before or at the beginning of flowering, when active
compounds are most concentrated.
HARVEST METHOD:
Cut stems with leaves and unopened flowers. Choose healthy, vibrant plants away
from roads or pollution. Dry quickly to prevent mold.
CONSERVATION
(STORAGE):
Dry thoroughly in shade and store in sealed, airtight containers in a dry,
cool, and dark place. Use within one year.