Everyone probably has memories of getting stung by nettle as a child. This green “vicious” plant that seemed to be waiting for you in every ditch you crawled or behind every outhouse you hid.Did you,however know that nettle is actually a century old superfood?
Nettle has traditionally been used as a remedy for almost every condition from dog bites and stomach pain to heart ache.
Looking closer at the nutritional value of nettle it is no wonder. This herb is a powerhouse of nutrients and vitamins; for example, nettle contains more iron than spinach. Did you read that Popeye?!
It also contains high levels of silicon, which affects nail and hair growth and health. In addition, nettle contains much more vitamin C than oranges and much more calcium than milk.
The health benefits of nettle are many. In general, nettle is a fantastic herb that strengthens and increases the body’s own resistance.
Here are some of the health benefits of nettle
– Helps the body in detoxification
– Relieves fatigue and anemia
– Improves blood circulation
– Improves kidney and gallbladder health
– Reduces allergies
– Improves prostate health
– Has anti-inflammatory properties
– Help against hair loss
– Helps in treating acne
– Helps with arthritis and other joint pain
Powdered nettle releases the nutrients well into the bloodstream and does not require large amounts of powder for the body to enjoy the benefits.
You can use nettle powder in smoothies, sprinkled over soups, mixed into omelets, pancakes or for baking.
My favourit is this recipe for Nettle pancakes.
What you need:
- 5 dl Milk
- 3 Eggs
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Sugar
- 1-2 tsp pure nordic Nettle Powder
- 2 1/2 dl Flour
Mix the eggs with milk, season with salt and sugar. Add the nettle powder. Mix in the flour and let the dough rest for half an hour in a cool place. Bake the pancakes in a frying pan with a bit of butter.
