Nettle leaf tea is a caffeine-free herbal remedy made from the leaves of the nettle plant. It can be used to treat joint pain, skin problems, heavy menstrual bleeding, and allergies. However, it can cause stomach upset and should not be used by pregnant women or those taking certain medications.
Nettle leaf tea is an herbal decoction created from the leaves of the nettle, or Urtica dioica. This herbal tea is caffeine free and is used as a home remedy for many ailments. Nettle leaves are available in different forms such as dried leaves, freeze-dried leaves, and extract. The tea can be made by pouring two-thirds of a cup (about 150 ml) of boiling water over four teaspoons (about 20 ml) of dried nettle leaf. The tea must steep for five minutes before being consumed, and can be sweetened to taste with honey or sugar.
Tea made from nettle leaves is a common home remedy for stiff and swollen joints. It also reduces the amount of excess fluid in the body and offers relief to gout sufferers. As a topical, nettle leaf can treat chronic skin problems such as eczema and psoriasis. A clean, soft cloth can be soaked in an infusion of cold nettle leaves, then applied directly to the problem area. The rag can be placed on varicose veins to help relieve swelling.
When taken internally, nettle leaf tea helps prevent or stop bleeding from wounds and nosebleeds. It is a treatment used for heavy menstrual bleeding. The high iron content in tea prevents anemia when included in the diet. The anti-allergic properties are useful when treating hay fever or asthma.
Nettle plants originate from the cold climates of northern Europe and Asia. Over the centuries, this plant has spread throughout the temperate climates of the world. The nettle plant grows 2-4 feet (61-122 cm) tall and blooms from early summer to early fall. The hairs that cover the stems and leaves itch when touched, a reaction caused by the high amount of histamine and serotonin in the hairs. The leaves lose this ability after drying.
This herbal tea is considered safe, but it can cause stomach upset and fluid retention in sensitive individuals. It can also cause hives or a rash when used topically. Nettle leaf infusions should never be applied to an open wound. Pregnant women should not use nettle leaf tea as it could lead to miscarriage.
Nettle leaf tea might interfere with certain medications. It should not be consumed by someone who is taking anticoagulant medication, because the tea thins the blood. Nettle leaf tea also strengthens blood pressure medications. This herbal tea lowers blood sugar, so diabetics taking medication may experience episodes of low blood sugar.
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