Vrischhiya (Stinging Nettle)
Stinging Nettle
Urtica dioica
Mineral-rich spring green used as a gentle cleanser for joints, skin and urine flow.
Stinging nettle plant · Herb · Parts: Leaf, Root, Seed
- Taste (rasa)
- Astringent, Bitter, Salty
- Energy (virya)
- Cooling
- Balances
- Pitta, Kapha
What it is used for
Benefits
- Traditional spring tonic rich in iron, calcium and silica
- Used for stiff, achy joints and seasonal allergic congestion
- Mild diuretic support for urinary flow and prostate comfort
How it has been used
Traditional uses & benefits
A mineral-dense spring green used in folk medicine across Europe and the Himalaya as a blood and joint cleanser, taken as a short seasonal course rather than year-round.
Traditional uses
- Spring tonic after a heavy, sedentary winter
- Stiff joints and seasonal congestion
- Gentle diuretic support for urinary flow
Practical guidance
- 1Blanching or drying removes the sting completely — never eat leaves raw.
- 2Traditionally taken as a 3–4 week course in spring, not continuously.
- 3Drink extra water alongside it; it is mildly drying.
How much
Dosage
2-4 g dried leaf as tea, two to three times daily; root is used separately.
How to take it
Preparation & usage
Nettle leaf tea
Steep 2 g dried leaf in hot water for 10 minutes; drink warm.
Morning and afternoon
Cooked nettle greens
Blanch young leaves for 2 minutes (this removes the sting), then cook like spinach.
With lunch
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Precautions
- Never eat raw — fresh leaves sting until cooked or dried
- Care if you take diuretics, blood-pressure or blood-sugar medication
- Avoid medicinal doses in pregnancy
Where this comes from
Sources
Common questions
What is Stinging Nettle used for?
Mineral-rich spring green used as a gentle cleanser for joints, skin and urine flow. In traditional use the main applications are: Traditional spring tonic rich in iron, calcium and silica; Used for stiff, achy joints and seasonal allergic congestion; Mild diuretic support for urinary flow and prostate comfort.
What is the typical dosage of Stinging Nettle?
2-4 g dried leaf as tea, two to three times daily; root is used separately. Amounts vary with age, constitution and health status, so confirm your own dose with a qualified practitioner.
How and when should Stinging Nettle be taken?
Nettle leaf tea: Steep 2 g dried leaf in hot water for 10 minutes; drink warm. Timing — Morning and afternoon
Are there any precautions with Stinging Nettle?
Never eat raw — fresh leaves sting until cooked or dried Care if you take diuretics, blood-pressure or blood-sugar medication Avoid medicinal doses in pregnancy Speak to a doctor before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or if you take prescription medication.
Does Stinging Nettle replace medical treatment?
No. This page documents traditional Ayurvedic use for education; it is not a diagnosis or treatment and does not replace prescribed medication or professional advice.
Where to buy
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