Why this is the perfect weed for the health conscious athlete.
Did you know the health benefits of stinging nettle include:
- Detoxifying the body
- Improve metabolic efficiency
- Boost immune health
- Increase circulation
- Improve energy level
- Lower inflammation
Stinging nettles are an herbaceous flowering plant with stinging hairs that release an array of chemicals when touched producing an irritating sensation on the skin. Also know as burn weed and burn nettle with a reputation like this would you consider eating or consuming this weed?
What is a weed?
The definition of a weed is a wild plant growing where it is not wanted and in competition with cultivated plants. But are all weeds bad for us?
As noted above stinging nettles are cursed with tiny little downy hairs that cause stinging and itching when touched but you can blend, juice, steep and dry this weed with no ill effects from the sting as the stinging substances are neutralized leaving us with the benefits of the plant itself. Hoorah!
Nutritional Benefits
Nettle is high in iron, calcium, Vitamin A, Vitamin K, Vitamin C, even protein. They also contain histamine and serotonin.
Why consume nettle?
In addition to the above uses include treating urinary tract infections, bladder and kidney problems, improving skin complexion, stimulating hair growth and helps clear mucus from the body especially during the winter months.
How do you handle stinging nettle?
Do not touch with bare hands. Use tongs or heavy-duty gloves to pick up the nettle for use.
To make a tea, use the dried leaves and roots and steep nettle in boiling water for 10 minutes. You can also make iced nettle tea by following this step and then leaving in the fridge to cool – it’s so refreshing.
Why should health conscious athletes source nettle?
You want to be ahead of your game don’t you? You want to assist the body in a way that promotes health not diminishes it so if a beverage for example could help detoxify the body, help reduce inflammation all the while improving energy levels, why wouldn’t you enjoy a glass or two?
Where to find nettle
To find out where you can source fresh nettle or dried for extra convenience get in contact we would love to point you in the right direction of this understated weed that has more health benefits that you can poke a stick at! Ah nature you have done it again.
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