Table of contents:
- Get to know nettle leaves
- Benefits of nettle leaves for health
- 1. Relieves symptoms of benign prostate enlargement
- 2. Overcoming rheumatism and osteoarthritis
- 3. Anti allergy
- 4. Stop bleeding
- 5. Against eczema
- 6. Encourage milk production
Before modern medicine began to develop, people in ancient times used various types of plants as natural remedies. Eits, make no mistake. The properties of natural medicines can be as effective as modern medicine, you know. One of the plants that is widely used for natural medicine is nettle leaves. Come on, take a peek at what are the health benefits of this multipurpose plant.
Get to know nettle leaves
Nettle leaves can be found in various regions in Asia, including Indonesia. The leaves are small and poisonous. If your skin touches the surface of the leaves, you will experience poisoning which is characterized by itchy, sore, reddish, and swollen skin. However, don't worry, because the nettle plants that have been cooked or soaked in water will lose these toxic substances. The leaves are also safe for consumption.
Usually nettle is consumed by drying and brewing with tea leaves. In some countries such as Nepal and India, the young leaves are also used for cooking. It tastes like spinach.
Benefits of nettle leaves for health
Regularly consuming nettle leaves can bring various benefits for your health. Check out the full explanation below.
1. Relieves symptoms of benign prostate enlargement
According to a 2013 study, nettle leaves and roots can relieve a variety of symptoms caused by a benign enlarged prostate. These symptoms include difficulty urinating, incomplete urination, or urinary incontinence. Experts suspect that the chemicals in the nettle plant can regulate the balance of hormones, such as testosterone and estrogen. The reason is, hormonal disorders can be one of the causes of benign prostate enlargement.
2. Overcoming rheumatism and osteoarthritis
A study in the Journal of Rheumatology shows that drinking nettle leaf extract can help treat rheumatism. This is because nettle acts as an anti-inflammatory in the body. In addition, nettle that has been soaked and boiled can also be applied directly to your painful joints. Especially on the knees, back, hips and hands.
3. Anti allergy
This plant can indeed make itchy. However, if it's been processed into tea or cooking, the nettle plant can actually help fight allergic reactions. In the body, nettle acts as a potent antihistamine to stop itching, sneezing, runny nose, and eye irritation.
4. Stop bleeding
Various studies have shown that nettle can be used to stop bleeding, especially after surgery. Research in the Journal of Contemporary Dental Practice also mentions the efficacy of this versatile leaf to stop bleeding after tooth extraction surgery.
5. Against eczema
Eczema is a dry, itchy rash on the surface of your skin. The causes may be allergic reactions, irritation, and heredity. Boil enough leaves and apply on the skin that appears eczema. Leave it for a few moments to soak in then rinse clean.
6. Encourage milk production
A Canadian study published in the Canadian House of Midwifery Resarch and Practice shows that breastfeeding mothers can increase milk production with nettles. However, further research is needed to look at what the long-term side effects are for mother and baby.
