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Uritica Dioica (Nettle) a versatile cure from nature

One of my favorite all-time herbs is Urtica Dioica known as Nettle. I was introduced to this herb why doing a trail run in Marin County, Northern California when I turned a corner too fast and was stung by one of its infamous needles. Little did I know that this plant who I was "cursing" was one natures best medicines . When I started my training as a Naturopathic Medicine student, one of my mentors, the late Dr. Bill Mitchell talked about Nettle root extensively. He stated it has some of the best antihistamine properties of all the plants because it is rich in plant sterols, fatty acids, and lignans which basically act like a fire extinguisher for inflammation especially with seasonal allergies. If you suffer from grass or tree allergies, try some Nettle root tea from Traditional Medicinals. Or stop by Herban Wellness in Kirkland and ask for a tea to be made up. Enjoy a cup in the morning and again in the evening and let me know if you see a reduction in your allergy symptoms. If you do not enjoy tea , freeze dried nettles capsules have been used as an effective treatment for allergies. As with all herbs, please consult with a physician before taking especially if you are on anticoagulants or cardiovascular medications. Nettles is very safe herb, but it never hurts to check. In addition to allergies, there are other medicinal applications for Nettle root including prostate disorders.

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