Nettles (L. Urtica dioica), also called stinging nettles, are one of the first wild edible plants to come up in the spring. Despite its unfriendly nature, nettles are among the most nutritious of wild foods. But in this article we are going to feature a lesser known aspects of Nettles: that of healthy skin support!

Fun fact: Naturally high in iron and B and C vitamins, nettles also have a full line of body strengthening elements. 

Wound healing

Nettles contain compounds that promote wound healing and tissue repair. Applying nettle extract topically or consuming nettle tea may help speed up the healing process of minor cuts, scratches, and abrasions on the skin. It is for this reason we add nettles to Skin Savvy.

Antibacterial

Nettles possess antimicrobial properties that can help combat bacterial and fungal infections on the skin. This makes nettles beneficial in treating conditions like athlete's foot, ringworm, and acne, where microbial overgrowth is a contributing factor. Nettles is in Herbaloid for its soothing, antimicrobial properties.

Moisturizing

Nettles contain mucilage, a gel-like substance that helps retain moisture. Incorporating nettles into skincare products or using nettle-infused preparations can help hydrate and moisturize the skin, keeping it soft and supple. 

Anti-inflammatory

Nettles contain compounds such as histamine, serotonin, and acetylcholine, which possess anti-inflammatory properties. These properties can help alleviate inflammatory skin conditions like eczema, dermatitis, and acne.

You wouldn't think of using it to combat pain but in times past, if a person had what we call arthritis or generalized inflammation, they might gather nettles and purposely flagellate the area which would bring circulation (aka blood flow) to the area. 

Diuretic 

Nettles promote the elimination of toxins from the body through urine. By aiding in detoxification, nettles support overall skin health by reducing the burden of toxins that can contribute to skin problems. Our skin is the largest organ and as such also our largest eliminative organ. Part of the reason we get acne, dermatitis rashes is our body's way of ridding toxins. If we can assist those toxins another way, there is less burden on our skin, less outbreaks. Drinking a nettle tea is a common way to introduce the benefits of Nettles.

The next time you are hiking in the woods or happen upon Nettles, remember how beneficial they are. Just don't hug them!! 😉