For some, stinging nettle is an annoying garden weed; for others, stinging nettle is a beloved herbal infusion and favorite tea. It is said to support bladder activity, especially in kidney and urinary tract conditions. But what is fact and what is myth? Can stinging nettle really do so much for our body and health, or is it all just wishful thinking? Let's take a look at the facts about the plant and the research behind it.
Stinging nettle - an ancient and well-known herb
Stinging nettle was used as a medicinal herb as early as antiquity and was mentioned in ancient writings. Stinging nettle was also used in medieval herbal medicine, for example for inflammation, as a diuretic, and for purifying the blood. A few facts about stinging nettle:
- Botanically, it belongs to the nettle family (Urticaceae), with around 30 to 70 species found almost everywhere worldwide. In Germany, the greater and lesser stinging nettle are probably the best known.
- They have small stinging hairs that leave painful welts on the skin when touched.
- It has been used as a medicinal plant since antiquity, but can also be used in the kitchen (tea infusions, in salads, as soup, in smoothies or pestos). The stinging hairs can be rendered harmless by brief blanching or boiling.
- Stinging nettle serves as an indicator of fertile and good soil and is the preferred food source for several butterfly species. In addition, it is popular as a fertilizer in the form of nettle liquid manure.
A nutritious herb: The nutrients of stinging nettle
Stinging nettles pack a punch: Inside this seemingly unassuming and prickly herb lies a wealth of valuable nutrients. For instance, 100 grams of stinging nettle contains around 7 grams of protein. That is roughly as much as in tofu. Not bad at all. Of course, one must admit that 100 grams of stinging nettles is quite a lot, considering how light nettle leaves can be. But there is even more in the plant, such as calcium, magnesium, potassium, iron, and silicon. Furthermore, it also provides vitamin A and vitamin C. Stinging nettle seeds are a source of linoleic acid (omega-6 fatty acid) and vitamin E.
Stinging nettle was Medicinal Plant of the Year 2022
As a medicinal plant used for centuries, different parts of the plant are used for various applications and purposes.
Leaves and herb of the stinging nettle: They are used pure as a tea infusion or as a plant extract to flush out the urinary tract and kidneys, acting as a diuretic. In addition, they are used externally to support rheumatic complaints.
Fruits of the stinging nettle: The small seed fruits of the stinging nettle are also used to support kidney function and relieve stress on the kidneys. In addition, the fruits are said to have hormone-balancing properties that can positively influence prostate health in men as well as the regulation of menstrual cramps in women. They have a mild antioxidant effect and are used to relieve inflammatory symptoms. Meanwhile, stinging nettle with its numerous positive properties has moved back into the spotlight of science and consumers alike. It is so versatile that it was even named Medicinal Plant of the Year in 2022.
Is stinging nettle really a fat burner?
The herb is often said to have a fat-burning effect, although this has not been scientifically proven so far. However, stinging nettle contains several ingredients that have a positive effect on some hormones and minerals involved in fat metabolism. Due to its dehydrating and detoxifying effects, it can positively influence accelerated fat burning, boosting metabolism and digestion. But consuming more stinging nettle alone will not directly burn more fat – that still requires plenty of exercise and a healthy diet. However, it can support detoxifying measures.
Which other plants or foods are considered fat burners?
Besides stinging nettle, there are other plants said to have positive effects on fat burning. None of them act directly on fat cells, but through their active ingredients they either support cellular detoxification, aid digestion, or stimulate metabolism, which in turn leads to increased calorie consumption. Thus, they all act indirectly on fat burning. These include, for example, hot spices such as chili, cayenne pepper, or ginger, black coffee, green tea, and mate tea, as well as citrus fruits and dandelion. The latter has a similar effect to stinging nettle: dandelion also supports digestion, helps with detoxification, and promotes the elimination of excess water.
Stinging nettle: a versatile herb with many positive properties
Stinging nettle is far more than just a bothersome weed – it is a true superfood with numerous health benefits. Thanks to its valuable ingredients such as vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, it supports the body in many ways. It boosts metabolism, has a detoxifying effect, and can even positively influence digestion. This creates positive synergies for fat burning. Anyone who incorporates stinging nettle into their diet or drinks it as an infusion is doing something good for their body.
