Nettles

It is said that nettles grow when humans try to disturb the land. It may be rightly so as the soft green leaves and stems bear several stinging hairs that are transformed into needles when touched. These needles inject various chemicals from histamine to formic acid among others that results in a sharp, burning sensation from where stinging nettles derive its name.

Although many people throughout the ages curse nettles for their sting, people have benefited much from this plant as a source of vitamin and mineral-rich food as well as a valuable source of medications. The leaves can be eaten like spinach or drank as tea or soup. Externally, they can be a used as a great hair tonic that eliminates hair breakage and makes you hair brighter, shinier and thicker. The leaf extract are also good for the skin against eczema and other skin conditions.

When consumed as a drink, nettles can remedy anemia as a rich source of iron, with high Vitamin C content to ensure that iron is absorbed. The herb also contains protides from amino acids, glucidic substances, hormones, volatile oil, and vitamins B1, B2, C and K. They are 10 percent protein, which is more than any other vegetable.