Although both are often called stinging nettle, that common name only applies to Urtica dioica. … Burning nettle, Urtica urens, is also known as dwarf nettle or small nettle. It is native to Europe, but in the United States is common in many eastern states and a few central states.

Is nettle tea made from stinging nettles?

Nettle tea consists of the leaves from the stinging nettle plant infused in hot water. It tastes similar to vegetable broth and can have a mild or strong taste depending on the concentration. Soaking nettle leaves in tea is one way to consume nettle.

Does stinging nettle have another name?

stinging nettle, (Urtica dioica), also called common nettle, weedy perennial plant of the nettle family (Urticaceae), known for its stinging leaves.

Why do they call it stinging nettle?

Stinging nettle is a plant that grows in North America, Europe, and Africa. It has been used as an herbal remedy for thousands of years. The name comes from the stinging sensation that you get when you brush against the plant's hairy stem and leaves.

What does stinging nettle do to the body?

Stinging nettle has been used for hundreds of years to treat painful muscles and joints, eczema, arthritis, gout, and anemia. Today, many people use it to treat urinary problems during the early stages of an enlarged prostate (called benign prostatic hyperplasia or BPH).

Does nettle tea make you poop?

Nettle tea is also effective (one handful of leaves for one cup) because the plant stimulates bowel movements. Drinking green tea to relieve constipation? Great idea! This drink helps eliminate toxins and waste from your body all the while improving your bowel movements.

Is nettle tea bad for kidneys?

Older nettle leaves can contain oxalate, which can irritate the kidneys. In one case, a woman developed atropine poisoning after drinking stinging nettle tea that was contaminated with belladonna. One source reports that nettles may raise blood sugar levels.

How do you identify stinging nettles?

Nettles grow 2 to 5 feet tall and have opposite leaves. The leaves are coarsely toothed, pointed on the ends, and can be several inches long. Smaller, younger leaves are more heart-shaped. True to its name, stinging nettle imparts a painful sting through tiny hairs on the underside of its leaves and on its stems.