This perennial herb is also called Stinging Nettle because it's covered with tiny hairs that contain formic acid which sting when you touch them. Nettle has toothed, egg-shaped, dark green leaves and it can grow up to three feet tall. The flowers are green or greenish-white which flowers from June to September.

If you have been stung by a nettle it may help to rub the part with Rosemary, Mint or Sage leaves. Take internally (tincture, capsules, tea, dried leaves and stems) for allergies, hayfever, vaginal yeast infections, hemorrhoids, dysentery, diarrhea, kidney problems, to stimulate metabolism and to improve digestion.

Nettle may also lower blood sugar, and since they are rich in vitamin C, silica and iron it may help prevent anemia.

If you suffer from arthritis or any rheumatic ailments, rub some nettle directly on your aching joints. The nettle will make the areas become flushed with blood, which will relieve the pain. You can take infections, hemorrhoids, dysentery, diarrhea, kidney problems, to stimulate metabolism and to improve digestion.

10 - 30 drops of tincture 3 times daily. Apply the juice externally ) to relieve bites and stings. Nettle can be used as a hair rinse to restore a natural color and to prevent premature hair loss. You can also cook young leaves for soups or add it to salads and vegetables.

To make tea of nettle, pour one cup boiling water over 3-4 teaspoons of dried nettle. Let the tea draw for about 10 minutes. For best effect, drink

1 cup three times a day. Sweeten the tea with honey.

Parts used: Leaves, stems of young plants.

Don't eat uncooked leaves, and handle the plant with care.