Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica) has been a staple in herbal medicine since ancient times.
Its scientific name, Urtica dioica, comes from the Latin word uro, which means “to burn,” because its leaves can cause a temporary burning sensation upon contact.The leaves have hair-like structures that sting and also produce itching, redness and swelling.However, once it is processed into a supplement, dried, freeze-dried or cooked, stinging nettle can be safely consumed. Studies link it to a number of potential health benefits. Stinging nettle offers a variety of vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, amino acids, polyphenols and pigments — many of which also act as antioxidants inside your body. Researchersstudynettleanditspotentialeffectsonasthma,inflammation,andcholesterol,amongotherconditions.
