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Health benefits of Wood nettle

Wood nettle Quick Facts
Name: Wood nettle
Scientific Name: Laportea canadensis
Origin In U.S., the species occurs from Louisiana to Oklahoma to North Dakota and thence across the country to the Atlantic and Gulf coasts
Shapes Small dry fruit that is curved and ovoid in shape
Taste Mild, slightly bitter, and slightly tangy
Major nutrients • Vitamin
• Minerals
• Protein
• Dietary Fiber
• Phytonutrients
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Health benefits Pain Relief, Joint Health, Skin Health, Urinary Tract Health, Allergy Relief, Digestive Support, Bone Health, Blood Sugar Regulation, Cardiovascular Health, Hormonal Balance, Respiratory Health, Liver Health, Wound Healing, Hair and Scalp Health
Laportea canadensis, commonly known as wood nettle or Canada nettle, often regarded as a lesser-known cousin of the more infamous stinging nettle, is an herbaceous plant that belongs to the Urticaceae Juss. (Nettle family), which includes other nettles as well. Despite its common name, Wood Nettle lacks the intense stinging sensation associated with its counterpart. The plant is native to eastern and central North America. In U.S., the species occurs from Louisiana to Oklahoma to North Dakota and thence across the country to the Atlantic and Gulf coasts. In Arkansas, it occurs statewide except for portions of the Mississippi Alluvial and West Gulf Coastal Plains. Some of the popular common names of the plants are Smooth nettle, Bull nettle, Nettle weed, Wood nettle, Stinging nettle, Spreading nettle, Hogweed, Tall wild nettle, Nettle leaf wood nettle, Common nettle, Hackelia, Canadian wood nettle, Ostrich fern nettle, Tall nettle, Laportea weed, Wild nettle, American nettle, Canada nettle and Nettle-leaved goosefoot.

This genus name, “Laportea,” honors the French botanist François Léonard Laporte, who lived during the 18th and 19th centuries. He made contributions to the field of entomology (the study of insects) and was also interested in natural history. The specific epithet “canadensis” refers to Canada, the country in North America. This part of the name signifies the plant’s geographic origin or association with Canada. It is harvested from the wild for local use as a food, medicine and source of materials. It can be incorporated into culinary creations. With a taste profile similar to spinach, it can be used in soups, stews, and even teas, providing a unique and nutritious twist to familiar dishes.

Wood Nettle Facts

Name Wood nettle
Scientific Name Laportea canadensis
Native In U.S., the species occurs from Louisiana to Oklahoma to North Dakota and thence across the country to the Atlantic and Gulf coasts. In Arkansas, it occurs statewide except for portions of the Mississippi Alluvial and West Gulf Coastal Plains
Common Names Smooth nettle, Wood nettle, Canadian woodnettle, Tall nettle, Stinging nettle, American nettle, Nettleleaf woodnettle, Hackelia, Bull nettle, Ostrich fern nettle, Hogweed, Wild nettle, Canada nettle, Nettle weed, Common nettle, Nettle-leaved goosefoot, Spreading nettle, Tall wild nettle, Laportea weed
Name in Other Languages Albanian: Njollë druri, Bleta e drurit, Bariu druri
Amharic: Ye’enqulla Ts’irit’igna (የእንቁላል ጽርተኛ), Ye-abrot qetel (የአብሮት ቅጠል)
Arabic: Qarass al-khashab (قراص الخشب), Qaras al-Ghaba (قراص الغابة)
Armenian: Partzanqaser (Պարծանքասեր), Lusanjareghbay (Լուսանջարեղբայ), Dardznanats votk (Դարձնած ոտք), Dramagits (Դրամագիծ)
Assamese: Uḍ Nēṭal (উড নেটল)
Azerbaijani: Taxta qurğan, Taxılğan otu
Basque: Zuhaitz-belarra, Egur-orta
Belarusian: Dreva krapiva (Дрэва крапіва), Draŭlenaya krapiva (Драўленая крапіва)
Bengali: Kath kôniya (কাঠ কনিয়া), Kath Nettel (কাঠ নেতেল)
Bodo: Uḍa Netal (उड नेटल)
Bosnian: Drvena kopriva
Bulgarian: Dŭrvesna kopriba (Дървесна коприва), Gorska kopriba (Горска коприва)
Catalan: Ortiga del bosc, Ortiga de Fusta
Chinese: Mù qiánmá (木荨麻), Lín Qián Má (林荨麻)
Croatian: Drvena kopriva, Šumska Kopriva
Czech: Dřevěná kopřiva, Lesní Kopřiva
Danish: Træ-nælde, Skovbrændenælde
Dhivehi: Kandub hiya (ކަނބު ހިއްޔަ)
Dutch: Houtnetel, Bosbrandnetel
English: Wood Nettle, Canada Lettuce, Canada Woodnettle, Canadian Wood-Nettle, Canadian Woodnettle, Canada Wood Nettle, Canada Nettle, Itchweed
Estonian: Puidunevõõrik, Metsvõõrik, Puidunõges
Faroese: Træ-Netla
Filipino: Kahoy na Nettle
Finnish: Puu nokkonen, Puurölli, Metsäpolttiaiset
French: Ortie du bois, Laportéa du Canada, Ortie des bois, Ortie du Canada, Chanvre-ortie, grande ortie
Galician: Urtiga de madeira, Ortiga da Madeira
Georgian: Khelovnebur’i ch’k’anka (ხელოვნებური ჩხანკა), Tq’upeula (ტყუპეულა)
German: Holznessel, Waldnessel, Kanadische Strauchnessel, Kanadische Hanfnessel
Greek: Xylíni tsouknída (Ξυλίνη τσουκνίδα), Xylíni knídi (Ξυλίνη κνίδη), Dryoknída (Δρυοκνίδα), Khelovniani kopla (ხელოვნიანი ქოფლა)
Greenlandic: Angujannguaq Qoqqutaa
Gujarati: Lakdi Sadbin (લકડી સદબિન), Vanaspatini Dikari (વનસ્પતિની દીકરી)
Hausa: Bush Nettle, Tsami mai Kiwon Lafiya, Ciwon Shuɗi
Hawaiian: Lā’au Kanu
Hindi: Lakdi bichoo (लकड़ी बिचू), Wood Nettel (वुड नेटल)
Hungarian: Fakender, Erdei Csodabogyó, Fa Csípőfű
Icelandic: Viðarnjörð, Tré-Nessla
Indonesian: Lidah bercabang kayu , Lidah Buaya Hutan
Igbo: Ahịa Ogwe, Nwa ose mmiri, Mmiri Nweta Ogologo
Inuktitut: Uqarjunnangaaq (ᐅᖃᕐᔪᓐᓇᖅ)
Irish: Neantóg gaoithe, Neanntóg Coiligh
Italian: Ortica legnosa, Ortica del Bosco
Japanese: Ki irakusa (木イラクサ), Yabu Iraga (ヤブイラガ)
Kannada: Marakani kaaya (ಮರಕಣಿಕಾ), Mara Bicchu (ಮರ ಬಿಚ್ಚು), Araṇya Gida (ಅರಣ್ಯ ಗಿಡ)
Kashmiri: Wood Nettle (ووڈ نیٹل)
Kazakh: Ağaç qaraşqaq, Otyr qashqyr (Отыр қашқыр)
Konkani: Uḍa Netal (उड नेटल)
Korean: Moksalmnamu (목살참나무), Sanneoguripul (산너구리풀)
Kurdish: Koprên Dar
Kyrgyz: Jalbyrak agachy (Жалбырак агачы), Bash agachy (Баш агачы)
Latvian: Koka nātre, Meža Nātre
Lithuanian: Medinė dilgėlė, Miškinis Dilgėlė
Luxembourgish: Holz Nesselen
Macedonian: Drvena kopriva (Дрвена коприва)
Maithili: Uḍa Netal (उड नेटल)
Malagasy: Rano Tampira
Malay: Nettle Hutan
Malayalam: Karinkari (കരിങ്കരി), Kada Poov (കട പൂവ്), Kaattuchedi (കാട്ടുചെടി)
Maltese: Nettla tal-ħolm, Nettla tal-Aħmar
Manipuri: Uḍ Nēṭal (উড নেটল)
Marathi: Lakdi Nettel (लकडी नेटेल), Jhaad Bichko (झाड बिचको)
Maori: Umu Hīnau
Mongolian: Mod tsokhiur (Мод цохиур)
Montenegrin: Drvena kopriva
Nepali: Khaane Bichu (खाने बिचू), Lakdi bichchhu (लकडी बिच्छू), Lakdi Bichchhua (लकडी बिच्छुवा), Uḍa Netal (उड नेटल)
Norwegian: Tre-nese, Skogsnesle
Odia: Uḍa Neṭal (ଉଡ ନେଟଲ)
Pashto: Darxwankay (درختونکۍ), Domargha Changah (دومرغه چنګاه)
Persian: Khāresh chūbī (خارش چوبی)
Polish: Pokrzywa leśna
Portuguese: Urtiga-dos-bosques, Urtiga Silvestre
Punjabi: Lakdi bichhu (ਲੱਕੜੀ ਬਿੱਚੂ)
Romanian: Urzică de lemn, Nalbă de Pădure
Russian: Drevesnaya krapiva (Древесная крапива), Lesnaya Krapiva (Лесная крапива)
Samoan: Fue Lautele
Sanskrit: Vanaspati Netal (वनस्पति नेटल)
Scottish Gaelic: Neanntagan craobh, Neantóg Coille
Serbian: Drvena kopriva (Дрвена кропива), Šumska kopriva (Шумска кропива)
Sindhi: Wood Nettle (ووڈ نیٽل)
Sinhala: Wesma ahu (වැස්ම අහු), Gasa nowal kola (ගසා නොවැල් කොල)
Slovak: Drevnatá žihľava, Lesná Kopčiak
Slovenian: Lesna kopriva, Gozdna Kopriva
Somali: Netaalka circa, Dhar Dhigay
Spanish: Ortiga de madera, Ortiga de Bosque, Ortega 
Swahili: Mzizi wa Mti Nettle
Swedish: Träbrännässla, Skogsbrännässla, Kanadanässla
Tahitian: Aito Ma’a
Tajik: Darakhti khur (Дарахти хӯр)
Tamil: Katti ney (கட்டி நெய்), Kaattu Vaathu (காட்டு வாத்து)
Telugu: Kaadu usuga (కాడు ఉసుగ), Mara Bicchu (మర బిచ్చు), Kaadu Pindika (కాడు పిండిక)
Thai: Ton taai (ต้นตาย), Kulābpàa (กุหลาบป่า), Ton grarok mai (ต้นกระรอกไม้)
Tibetan: Sa ming ni (ས་མིང་ནི།)
Turkmen: Agaç koprigi
Turkish: Odun nanesi, Orman Dikenotu
Ukrainian: Derevna kropyva (Деревна кропива), Lisova Kropyva (Лісова Кропива)
Urdu: Lakdi bachu (لکڑی بچو), Lakri bachwa (لکڑی بچوا), Lakdi Nettle (لکڑی نیٹل)
Uzbek: Yigirma daraxti, Odamlar timsoli
Vietnamese: Rau tầm long, Rau Chạy Rừng
Welsh: Nettlen y coed, Glesyn Coed
Wolof: Sope Ɓuddi
Xhosa: Ithambo Lomthi
Yoruba: Ìrù Ìdán, Erin Nọtẹli Ilẹ
Zulu: Ibhantshi Eyadla, Isinambuzane Semithi
Plant Growth Habit Annual or perennial herbaceous non woody plant
Growing Climates Thrives in moist, woodland environments, along stream banks, forest edges, shaded areas, moist floodplain woodlands, moist bottomland woodlands, mesic woodlands, shady seeps, deciduous forests, along seepages, in drainages, in swamps, margins of sloughs and oxbows, on roadsides, forest fringes
Soil The soil should be rich, moist, and well-draining. Wood nettle prefers soils that are slightly acidic to neutral. Adding organic matter such as compost can help improve soil structure and moisture retention
Plant Size About 3 to 6 feet (approximately 0.9 to 1.8 meters) and can have a spread of around 1 to 3 feet (about 0.3 to 0.9 meters)
Root Possesses a fibrous root system that consist of numerous thin, branching roots that spread out close to the surface of the soil.
Stem Stems are light to medium green and abundantly covered with stiff white hairs that have the capacity to sting when they are rubbed against
Leaf Leaves are oval to egg-shaped, to 6 inches long and 4 inches wide, with serrated edges, a sharply pointed tip and a long stalk
Flowering season May to June
Flower There are separate male and female flowers on the same plant. Male flower is greenish white to white and less than 1/8″ (3 mm.) across, consisting of 5 narrow sepals, 5 stamens, and no petals. Female flower is more or less green and about 1/8″ (3 mm.) across, consisting of 4 sepals of unequal size (2 large and 2 small) and an ovary with a long style
Fruit Shape & Size Small dry fruit that is curved and ovoid in shape
Seeds Seeds are typically small, oval to elliptical in shape, and vary in size and are generally a few millimeters in length
Flavor/Aroma Earthy and slightly pungent, with a hint of grassiness
Taste Mild, slightly bitter, and slightly tangy
Plant Parts Used Leaves, roots, stems and seeds
Propagation By seeds, division
Major Nutrition
  • Vitamin
  • Minerals
  • Protein
  • Dietary Fiber
  • Phytonutrients
  • Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Lifespan Up to 5 to 10 years or more
Season June to August
Available Forms
  • Herbal Teas
  • Tinctures
  • Capsules or Tablets
  • Topical Ointments or Creams
  • Infused Oils
  • Herbal Extracts
  • Powders
  • Herbal Formulations
  • Salves
Health benefits
  • Anti-Inflammatory Properties
  • Pain Relief
  • Joint Health
  • Antioxidant Activity
  • Diuretic Effects
  • Immune System Support
  • Skin Health
  • Urinary Tract Health
  • Allergy Relief
  • Digestive Support
  • Bone Health
  • Blood Sugar Regulation
  • Cardiovascular Health
  • Hormonal Balance
  • Detoxification Support
  • Anti-Microbial Potential
  • Anti-Anxiety and Stress Relief
  • Respiratory Health
  • Liver Health
  • Wound Healing
  • Hair and Scalp Health

Plant Description

Wood nettle is an annual or perennial herbaceous non woody plant that normally grows about 3 to 6 feet (approximately 0.9 to 1.8 meters) and can have a spread of around 1 to 3 feet (about 0.3 to 0.9 meters). The plant thrives in moist, woodland environments, along stream banks, forest edges, shaded areas, moist floodplain woodlands, moist bottomland woodlands, mesic woodlands, shady seeps, deciduous forests, along seepages, in drainages, in swamps, margins of sloughs and oxbows, on roadsides and forest fringes. The soil should be rich, moist, and well-draining. Wood nettle prefers soils that are slightly acidic to neutral. Adding organic matter such as compost can help improve soil structure and moisture retention. Beyond its culinary and medicinal uses, Wood Nettle can be used to create natural dyes and even woven crafts, adding a touch of sustainability to artistic endeavors. Harvesting Wood Nettle requires careful handling due to its slight stinging potential. Wearing gloves and using a gentle touch are key to enjoying its benefits without discomfort.

Appropriate growing environment for Wood nettle

Wood nettle is a native perennial plant that typically grows in shaded woodland areas and damp, moist habitats. Creating an appropriate growing environment for wood nettle involves replicating its natural habitat conditions. Here are the key factors to consider:

Roots

Wood Nettle possesses a fibrous root system. Fibrous roots consist of numerous thin, branching roots that spread out close to the surface of the soil. The fibrous roots typically spread horizontally rather than deeply into the ground. This arrangement allows the plant to efficiently absorb nutrients and moisture from the upper layers of the soil. The individual roots are fine, hair-like structures. The roots anchor the plant securely in the soil, preventing it from being easily uprooted by wind or other external factors. These roots branch extensively and form a dense network in the soil. The branching nature of the roots allows the plant to explore a larger volume of soil, increasing the chances of encountering nutrients and minerals essential for its growth.

Stem

Wood Nettle has an herbaceous, upright stem that is non-woody and remains flexible.  The stem emerges from the ground and grows vertically, reaching heights of up to several feet (approximately 3 to 7 feet or more, depending on conditions). The stem is covered with fine stinging hairs, which are characteristic of nettle plants. These stinging hairs are hollow and contain irritating compounds that can cause discomfort when touched. The stem’s color can vary depending on its age and growing conditions. It is often green, reflecting the plant’s photosynthetic activity. Stems may produce lateral branches as they grow. These branches can bear leaves, flowers, and seeds. The presence of stinging hairs on the stem serves as a defense mechanism against herbivores. When touched, these hairs break and release irritating compounds that deter animals from grazing. The main function of the stem is to provide structural support to the plant. It holds the leaves and reproductive structures (flowers and seeds) upright, allowing them to receive optimal sunlight for photosynthesis.

Bark

The outer layer of the stem, sometimes referred to as the “bark,” is composed of a tissue known as the cortex. This layer provides protection to the inner tissues of the stem. The cortex of Wood Nettle stems is often green and may have a slightly rough texture due to the presence of fine stinging hairs. The cortex of the stem is covered with stinging hairs that contain irritant compounds. These stinging hairs serve as a defense mechanism against herbivores by causing discomfort upon contact.

Leaves

Leaves are arranged alternately along the stems. This means that each leaf is positioned individually, rather than in pairs or whorls. Leaves are typically ovate (egg-shaped) with a pointed tip and a rounded or slightly heart-shaped base. They have a serrated or toothed margin, with irregularly spaced teeth along the edges. The venation pattern of leaves is palmate, which means the primary veins radiate outward from a central point at the base of the leaf. These veins create a fan-like network that provides structural support and helps with the transport of nutrients and water. Leaves can vary in size, but they generally range from 5 to 15 cm (2 to 6 inches) in length and 2.5 to 8 cm (1 to 3 inches) in width.

The upper surface of leaves is typically dark green in color and slightly rough to the touch. The lower surface may be slightly paler in color and have fine hairs. One of the most distinctive features of leaves is the presence of stinging hairs or trichomes. These tiny hairs contain a potent chemical cocktail that includes histamines, acetylcholine, and formic acid. When the hairs come into contact with skin, they can cause an intense stinging sensation, redness, and itching. This defense mechanism helps protect the plant from herbivores. Each leaf is attached to the stem by a petiole, which is a slender stalk. The petiole allows the leaf to be positioned at a certain distance from the stem, reducing the likelihood of animals brushing against the stinging hairs.

The base of the leaf is often asymmetrical, and some leaves may appear slightly lobed or with irregular projections. The color of the leaves can vary based on factors such as sunlight exposure, soil nutrients, and age. Generally, the leaves are green, but variations in shade may occur. Like all leaves, wood nettle leaves play a crucial role in photosynthesis, the process by which plants convert sunlight into energy by using chlorophyll. They also serve as a means of defense against herbivores due to their stinging hairs.

Flowers

Wood nettle produces flowers in clusters called inflorescences. The inflorescences are typically arranged in panicles, which are branched structures that hold multiple flowers. The individual flowers are small and inconspicuous. They are unisexual, meaning that some flowers are male (staminate) and others are female (pistillate). The flowers are often less than 1 cm in size. The color of the flowers can vary, but they are usually greenish or yellowish in hue. The lack of showy colors is common among wind-pollinated plants.

Each Wood nettle flower consists of the following basic parts – The outermost whorl of protective leaf-like structures, called sepals, and surrounds the developing flower bud. Sepals are usually green and serve to protect the flower during its early stages. Flowers do not have true petals; instead, they have petal-like structures called tepals that are usually not well-differentiated from the sepals. Tepals may be reduced in size or absent altogether in some species. Male flowers (staminate) consist of stamens, which are the male reproductive structures. Stamens produce pollen, which contains the male gametes (sperm cells). These flowers typically have long filaments and small anthers that release pollen. Female flowers (pistillate) contain pistils, which are the female reproductive structures. Each pistil consists of an ovary, a style, and a stigma. The ovary contains the ovules, which develop into seeds if fertilized. The style elevates the stigma to facilitate pollen capture.

Wood nettle is primarily wind-pollinated, meaning that it relies on the wind to carry pollen from the male flowers to the female flowers. The lack of showy petals and the presence of abundant pollen-producing structures are adaptations to this type of pollination. Once the pollen is transferred from the male flowers to the stigma of the female flowers, fertilization can occur. The fertilized ovules develop into seeds within the ovaries.

Fruits

Fruit is a small, dry, one-seeded structure known as an achene. An achene is a simple type of fruit that does not split open at maturity and usually contains a single seed. The achene consists of several distinct parts: Each achene contains a single seed, which is the reproductive structure that has the potential to develop into a new plant if conditions are suitable. The pericarp is the wall of the achene that surrounds and protects the seed. It can be divided into three layers: the outer epicarp, the middle mesocarp, and the inner endocarp. After the achene matures and dries out, it becomes ready for dispersal. Various mechanisms, including wind, water, and animals, can aid in the dispersal of the achene and its contained seed to new areas where the seed can germinate and grow.

Seeds

Most seeds are small and oval or elliptical in shape. The size of a seed depends on the plant and its surroundings. Most of the time, they are only a few millimeters long. The seed is protected by a hard outer shell called the seed coat or testa. The seed coat protects the inside of the seed and helps control how much water the seed takes in when it starts to grow. The embryo is the growing plant inside the seed coat. It has the first structures for growth. The embryo is made up of the embryonic root (called a radicle), the embryonic shoot (called a plumule), and one or two cotyledons, which are the seed leaves. Wood nettle and other plants can only live and spread if they have seeds. They make sure the species lives on by letting plants reproduce sexually and adjust to changes in the surroundings.

Health benefits of Wood nettle

Wood Nettle is a plant with potential health benefits that have been recognized in traditional and folk medicine practices. While scientific research on its health effects is limited, here are some detailed health benefits attributed to Wood Nettle:

1. Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Wood Nettle contains bioactive compounds that exhibit anti-inflammatory effects. These compounds, such as flavonoids and phenolic acids, may help reduce inflammation in the body. This property is particularly relevant for conditions like arthritis, where inflammation contributes to joint pain and discomfort.

2. Pain Relief

Traditional use of Wood Nettle involves its application as a poultice or topical remedy for pain relief. The plant’s anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties may help alleviate muscle aches, joint pain, and minor injuries.

3. Joint Health

Wood Nettle’s anti-inflammatory properties are often associated with supporting joint health. By reducing inflammation, it may help manage symptoms of arthritis and improve joint mobility.

4. Antioxidant Activity

Wood Nettle contains antioxidants like flavonoids, which can help combat oxidative stress and neutralize harmful free radicals in the body. Antioxidants play a role in reducing the risk of chronic diseases and supporting overall well-being.

5. Diuretic Effects

Wood Nettle is believed to have diuretic properties, promoting increased urine production and fluid elimination. This can help flush out toxins, excess salt, and waste products from the body, supporting kidney function and reducing bloating.

6. Immune System Support

Some compounds found in Wood Nettle may modulate the immune system, potentially enhancing its ability to defend against infections and illnesses. However, more research is needed to fully understand this aspect.

7. Skin Health

The plant has been used topically to soothe skin irritations, including rashes and insect bites. Its anti-inflammatory properties may provide relief and aid in the healing process.

8. Urinary Tract Health

Wood Nettle’s diuretic effects can help maintain a healthy urinary tract by preventing urinary stagnation and potentially reducing the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs).

9. Allergy Relief

Wood Nettle is often cited as a potential natural remedy for allergies due to its reported antihistamine-like effects. It may help alleviate symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes.

10. Digestive Support

Some traditional practices involve using Wood Nettle to promote digestion and alleviate digestive discomfort. It may have mild gastrointestinal benefits, although scientific evidence is lacking.

11. Bone Health

Wood Nettle contains minerals like calcium and magnesium that are essential for maintaining strong bones and preventing conditions like osteoporosis. Regular consumption of Wood Nettle may contribute to bone health and density.

12. Blood Sugar Regulation

Some studies show that some chemicals in Wood Nettle may help lower blood sugar levels. It helps the body use glucose and makes it more sensitive to insulin, which is good for people with diabetes or who are at risk of getting it.

13. Cardiovascular Health

The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of Wood Nettle could contribute to cardiovascular health. These properties may help lower the risk of heart disease by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in blood vessels.

14. Hormonal Balance

Wood Nettle has been traditionally used to address hormonal imbalances, particularly in women. It may help alleviate symptoms associated with menstrual discomfort, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), and menopause.

15. Detoxification Support

Wood Nettle’s diuretic properties can aid in the elimination of toxins and waste products from the body. This gentle detoxification support can contribute to overall wellness and the efficient functioning of organs like the kidneys.

16. Anti-Microbial Potential

Some studies suggest that Wood Nettle may possess antimicrobial properties, which could help combat certain types of bacteria and fungi. This potential benefit could contribute to maintaining a healthy microbial balance in the body.

17. Anti-Anxiety and Stress Relief

Traditional use of Wood Nettle includes its potential to alleviate anxiety and stress. While more research is needed, the plant’s potential calming effects could be attributed to its compounds that interact with the nervous system.

18. Respiratory Health

Wood Nettle is believed to have potential benefits for respiratory health. It may help soothe irritated airways, making it a candidate for supporting respiratory comfort and breathing difficulties.

19. Liver Health

Some traditional practices involve using Wood Nettle for liver support. It may assist in promoting liver function and detoxification due to its potential to enhance bile production and aid digestion.

20. Wound Healing

When applied topically, Wood Nettle’s anti-inflammatory properties may aid in wound healing by reducing inflammation and promoting tissue repair.

21. Hair and Scalp Health

Wood Nettle’s potential anti-inflammatory and circulation-enhancing effects might contribute to healthier hair and scalp. Some traditional uses involve using it as a hair rinse or treatment.

Culinary Uses of Wood nettle

Wood Nettle has been used in various culinary traditions, particularly in foraging and wild edible cuisine. Before consuming Wood Nettle, it’s important to properly identify the plant and handle it carefully to avoid potential skin irritation caused by its stinging hairs. Here are some culinary uses of Wood Nettle:

Different Uses of Wood nettle

Certainly, here are various different uses of Wood Nettle beyond its culinary applications:

Side effects of Wood nettle

While Wood Nettle has potential health benefits and various uses, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects and precautions. Here are some considerations to keep in mind:

References:

https://www.itis.gov/servlet/SingleRpt/SingleRpt?search_topic=TSN&search_value=19127#null

https://npgsweb.ars-grin.gov/gringlobal/taxon/taxonomydetail?id=410254

https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Laportea+canadensis

https://gd.eppo.int/taxon/LAOCA

http://www.theplantlist.org/tpl1.1/record/tro-33400017

https://gobotany.nativeplanttrust.org/species/laportea/canadensis/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Laportea_canadensis

https://www.minnesotawildflowers.info/flower/canadian-wood-nettle

https://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/woodland/plants/wood_nettle.htm

https://temperate.theferns.info/plant/Laportea+canadensis

https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=LACA3

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