Stinging nettle offers a variety of vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, amino acids, polyphenols and pigments — many of which also act as

Stinging nettle may help suppress inflammation, which in turn could aid inflammatory conditions, including arthritis, but more research is needed.

Stinging nettle may help reduce prostate size and treat symptoms of an enlarged prostate gland in men with BPH.

Stinging nettle may reduce hay fever symptoms. Yet, some research indicates that it may not be much more effective than a placebo. More studies are needed on stinging nettle’s effects on hay fever.

Stinging nettle may help lower blood pressure by allowing your blood vessels to relax and reducing the force of your heart’s contractions. Yet, more human studies are needed to confirm these effects.

While stinging nettle may help lower blood sugar levels, more human studies are crucial before recommendations can be made.

Stinging nettle’s other potential health benefits include lessened bleeding, boosted liver health and wound healing.

Dried or cooked stinging nettle is safe to eat for most people. However, you shouldn’t eat fresh leaves, as they may cause irritation.

Stinging nettle is very versatile. It can be cooked in stews and soups, brewed as an herbal tea, applied as an ointment and taken as a supplement.