Nettle is one of the most well-known herbal extracts in traditional medicine, which has many fans due to its numerous therapeutic and strengthening properties. The nettle plant, which is known by the scientific name Urtica dioica, has been used as a natural medicine in Iranian and international traditional medicine for a long time. This plant, which usually grows in humid areas, is rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Nettle sweat, which is obtained by distilling the aerial parts of this plant, has gained a special place due to its many benefits in the prevention and treatment of many diseases. In this article, we will fully examine the many properties of nettle sweat.
Properties of nettle sweat
Strengthening the immune system with nettle sweat
One of the most prominent properties of nettle sweat is strengthening the body’s immune system. This vegetable sweat contains large amounts of vitamin C and iron, both of which are essential for strengthening the body’s immunity. Vitamin C in nettle sweat helps increase the production of white blood cells and fight pathogens, while iron improves oxygenation to tissues and prevents anemia. Regular consumption of this sweat is recommended for people who suffer from frequent colds in the cold seasons of the year.
Cleansing the liver and improving its function
The liver is one of the most important organs of the body, which plays a major role in detoxification and metabolism. With its strong cleansing properties, nettle sweat helps to detoxify the liver and improves its function. Consumption of nettle sweat is very useful for people who have weak liver due to unhealthy diet or use of chemical drugs. This property also helps to reduce skin problems caused by liver disorders such as pimples and acne.
Regulation of blood sugar and help with diabetes
Stinging nettle is known as a natural blood sugar regulator. The active ingredients in this plant increase insulin sensitivity and lower blood glucose levels. Research has shown that regular consumption of stinging nettle can help reduce the symptoms of type 2 diabetes. In addition, this sweat helps control blood sugar in healthy people and prevents diabetes.
Reduce inflammation and relieve joint pain
The anti-inflammatory property of nettle sweat is another outstanding feature. This herbal sweat reduces inflammation in joints and muscles due to its compounds such as flavonoids and polyphenols. Consumption of nettle sweat is especially effective for people who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis or other inflammatory joint diseases. This anti-inflammatory property, in addition to relieving pain, also helps to improve the range of motion of the joints.
Increase skin and hair health
Due to the presence of nutrients such as silica and sulfur, nettle sweat has a great effect on improving skin and hair health. By strengthening the hair follicles, this sweat prevents hair loss and helps to grow new hair. Also, using nettle sweat topically or orally nourishes the skin and removes pimples, acne and skin inflammations. For this reason, this sweat is one of the natural options for having healthy skin and hair.
Help to improve the function of the digestive system
Nettle sweat has a positive effect on the digestive system. By increasing the production of digestive enzymes, this sweat facilitates food digestion and prevents problems such as bloating, constipation and diarrhea. Also, the antibacterial property of nettle sweat helps to clean the stomach and intestines from harmful bacteria. Consuming this sweat is especially beneficial for people who suffer from irritable bowel syndrome or other digestive problems.
Improve blood circulation and heart health
Nettle sweat helps improve blood circulation in the body and increases oxygen supply to tissues. This property helps prevent cardiovascular diseases. Consuming this sweat reduces bad cholesterol (LDL) and increases good cholesterol (HDL), which, as a result, reduces the risk of plaque formation in arteries and blood flow obstruction. This property has made nettle sweat a suitable option for maintaining cardiovascular health.
Help detoxify and cleanse the body
Another benefit of nettle sweat is its strong detoxification properties. By increasing the excretion of toxins through the kidneys, this sweat cleanses the body of waste and harmful substances. Regular consumption of nettle sweat increases urine production and prevents water retention in the body. This property makes it one of the best options for people looking for a natural way to detoxify the body.
Strengthen bones and prevent osteoporosis
Nettle sweat is rich in calcium and magnesium, both of which are essential for bone health. Consuming this sweat helps strengthen bones and prevents diseases such as osteoporosis. In addition, its anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce bone and joint pain, so it is very useful for the elderly and people who are at risk of osteoporosis.
Regulating hormones and helping women’s health
Nettle sweat is very useful for women’s health due to its hormone-regulating properties. This sweat helps reduce premenstrual symptoms (PMS) and regulate the menstrual cycle. Also, its consumption is recommended for menopausal women who face problems such as hot flashes or hormonal fluctuations. This property of nettle sweat helps to improve the quality of life of women.
Harms of stinging nettle
Drug interactions and possible side effects
One of the common problems in using nettle sweat is its interaction with chemical drugs. People who take blood thinners such as warfarin or aspirin should avoid using nettle sweat at the same time; Because nettle has anticoagulant properties and can increase the effect of these drugs, which may lead to internal bleeding. Also, taking nettle sweat along with antihypertensive drugs may cause a severe drop in blood pressure. People taking diabetes medications should also be careful, as stinging nettle can lower blood sugar unexpectedly and cause a severe drop in blood sugar (hypoglycemia). These interactions can lead to serious complications, so it is necessary to consult a doctor before use.
Excessive drop in blood pressure
Another side effect of using nettle sweat is a severe drop in blood pressure. This herbal sweat may lower blood pressure due to its diuretic properties and its effect on body fluid balance. In people who have naturally low blood pressure or are taking blood pressure-lowering medications, consumption of stinging nettle can lead to symptoms such as dizziness, weakness, headache, and even severe lethargy. If this drop in blood pressure is not controlled, it may lead to more serious problems such as reduced blood flow to the brain and vital organs.
Stomach irritation and digestive problems
While stinging nettle helps improve digestive function, consuming too much of it can cause problems such as stomach irritation, nausea, diarrhea, or heartburn. These effects are mainly due to the astringent and stimulating properties of nettle. In some people, stinging nettle may irritate the stomach lining and cause burning or pain. Therefore, people with digestive problems such as stomach or intestinal ulcers should be careful or avoid consuming this sweat.
Possibility of allergic reactions
The nettle plant and its sweat may cause allergic reactions in some people. These reactions can manifest as itchy skin, rashes, redness, hives, or even more serious problems such as shortness of breath and throat swelling. People who have a history of allergies to other plants should make sure of their body’s reaction before consuming nettle sweat. In severe cases, these allergies can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.
The possibility of kidney problems in long-term use
Due to its diuretic properties, stinging nettle stimulates the kidneys and increases the excretion of fluids and toxins through urine. However, excessive or long-term consumption of this sweat may put too much pressure on the kidneys and cause kidney damage. Also, people with kidney disease such as kidney stones or kidney failure may experience worsening symptoms or new problems when taking nettle. Therefore, these people should consume nettle sweat under the supervision of a doctor.
Risk of hormonal disorders in women
Nettle sweat has effects on the body’s hormones, which can cause problems for women in some cases. Excessive consumption of this sweat may cause changes in the menstrual cycle or cause abnormal bleeding. Pregnant women should especially avoid nettle sweat, as it may irritate the uterus and increase the risk of miscarriage or premature birth. Also, during breastfeeding, it may have negative effects on the mother’s hormones or milk quality.
The possibility of dehydration
One of the main properties of nettle sweat is its diuretic property, which increases urination. If consumption of nettle sweat is accompanied without compensating the lost fluids, it may lead to dehydration. This issue can lead to complications such as headache, weakness, dry skin, decreased energy and even dysfunction of the body’s vital organs. Therefore, consumers should drink plenty of water along with nettle sweat.
Risk of indiscriminate and arbitrary use
Like any other herbal medicine, excessive or arbitrary use of nettle sweat can be dangerous. Many people consume this sweat without restrictions due to its natural nature, while excessive consumption of nettle sweat may cause the accumulation of active substances in the body and the occurrence of poisoning. Also, people may use inappropriate doses, which can increase the risk of side effects. Therefore, the consumption of this sweat should be done with full knowledge of the appropriate amount and exact timing.
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