Nettle as a textile
Nettles has been used for textiles for thousands of years.
There is evidence, based on microscopic studies of archeological findings, of what we previously thought to be flax being indeed nettle used in textiles about 4000 years ago.
Because of it´s strenght, nettles has been used as ropes, fishing nets and sacks. But it has also been used for clothing and valuable textiles. Due to it´s feel, it´s called as “silk plant” in Asia or “northern silk” in Europe.
Nettles as food
The modest and prickly nettle is a versatile food plant, a superherb with an incredible list of great properties.
Nettle contains 7 times more iron than spinach and 5 times more iron-absorbing vitamin C than an orange. The nutritional value of this healthy and tasty plant, its micronutrients and minerals, make nettle, which is considered a weed, a superior food material in many respects.
NETTLE AS NATURAL MEDICINE AND COSMETICS
Nettle has been used in the treatment of skin problems, as a reliever of inflammation.
There is probably no disease for which the power of nettle as a powder or extract has not been tried. No wonder, because the medicinal properties of nettle are remarkably versatile.
The compounds contained in nettle leaves and stems have preventive and curative effects on inflammation; these nettle parts are used in the treatment of arthritis, anaemia, allergies, joint pain and urinary tract infections. Nettle roots contains compounds that have an effect in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia.
Nettle's properties come to the fore in cosmetics. Traditionally, nettle has been used in the treatment of skin problems, as a reliever of inflammation. Many know from experience that nettle water also works as a hair conditioner.
Nettles for plant health - gardening
This global weed makes great fertilizer and pesticide for plants
Many see nettle as an unwanted guest, as a weed, in the garden. However, nettle makes great fertilizer for plants – nettle slurry. Nettle slurry promotes plant health and growth. This easy-to-make fertilizer contains lots of nitrogen, the nutrient that plants need most. It also contains vitamins and minerals that are important for plants – as well as for human beings. Nettle water can be used as pesticide against aphids and mites, as well as fungi.
International Nettle family
The family of nettles includes about 2,625 species – quite a big family connecting people around the world! Most of us have some kind of an emotional bond to this plant. For some of us memories comes from childhood. Maybe the best-known nettles are, at least from our point of view: