Healing with a stinging herb
Aching joints in Anatolia and bodies in Andean limpias are struck with nettles.
Side by side
| Stinging nettle | |
|---|---|
| Latin name | Urtica dioica |
| Family | Urticaceae |
| Region | Anatolia and the Mediterranean, Andes |
| Part used | Leaves, root, seeds |
| Use | Healing, Food, Ritual and shamanic |
| Scientific evidence | Limited |
| Safety | Generally safe |
| Legal status in Türkiye | No specific restriction |
Stinging nettle
In spring the young leaves go into soups, pastries and sautés. In folk medicine it is used to “build blood” and for rheumatism; aching joints are struck with a fresh stem.
In Andean folk healing, ortiga is lightly struck on the body during a limpia. It is believed to open the circulation and draw out susto, the illness caused by fright.
Science: The EMA recognises the leaf for joint pain and as a diuretic, and the root for urinary complaints linked to benign prostate enlargement, as traditional uses. Clinical trials of the root show moderate results.
Safety: The fresh plant causes itching and welts. Because it is a diuretic, people taking blood pressure or diabetes medicines should be careful.
Last reviewed: · Türkçe
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