Content
The properties of nettle for blood are determined by the presence of biologically active components: vitamins, histamine, glycosides, flavonoids, tannins and others. These are valuable organic compounds that speed up metabolism and lead to a “soft”, gradual cleansing. It has also been noted that nettle stimulates hematopoiesis and partly promotes clotting processes, especially in the form of a strong alcohol tincture.
How does nettle affect the blood?
It is widely believed that nettle thickens the blood. And in this regard, it cannot be used as food for people with increased coagulability, a tendency to form blood clots, varicose veins, atherosclerosis and other diseases.
This idea is due to the fact that nettle contains vitamin K (more precisely, the K1 form: phylloquinone), which actually promotes blood clotting in case of damage (wound, scratch). However, studies have shown that only a thick alcoholic extract of nettle (tincture with 60% alcohol) has a significant effect on this process.Moreover, the rate of clotting increases only by a third (32.4-33.3%).
As for aqueous extracts (this is soup, tea, decoction), as well as fresh leaves and stems, they do not have a significant effect on the formation of blood clots. Thus, nettle does not thin the blood; on the contrary, it thickens it. But this effect is extremely insignificant (with the exception of alcohol infusion). Therefore, moderate consumption of nettles, fresh and in dishes, is allowed to all people.
Composition and value of the plant
The plant also includes a number of other valuable components:
- B vitamins;
- vitamin C;
- carotene;
- histamine;
- tannins;
- glycosides;
- choline;
- vegetable proteins;
- cellulose;
- phytoncides;
- gum;
- phenolic compounds;
- trace elements (manganese, iron, boron, copper, titanium, nickel, chromium, molybdenum).
Nettle leaves and stems contain many biologically active substances that speed up metabolism and cleanse the body.
Nettle has a positive effect not only on the blood, but also on other systems. Thanks to its use, the following occurs:
- improvement of metabolic processes;
- increasing immunity;
- stimulation of digestion;
- cleansing the body of half-life products (“toxins”);
- normalization of blood glucose levels;
- appetite stimulation.
Nettle has:
- soothing;
- anti-inflammatory;
- anticonvulsant;
- rejuvenating;
- expectorant;
- milky;
- antiseptic;
- mild analgesic effect (on joints and above).
What are the benefits of nettle for blood?
The benefit of the herb is not only that it promotes blood clotting. Leaves and stems contain biologically active components that speed up metabolism. Nettle cleanses the blood. Taking it in moderate doses:
- stimulates hematopoietic processes;
- increases the synthesis of prothrombin in the liver, which stops bleeding;
- helps cure anemia (anemia - reduced number of red blood cells).
Indications for use
The beneficial effects of the plant have been scientifically proven, so it is used not only in folk medicine, but also in official medicine. The leaves and stems of stinging and stinging nettle are used for the prevention and treatment of various diseases of the respiratory, cardiovascular and other body systems. The herb is used for bleeding, hemorrhoids, problems with the liver and gall bladder, tuberculosis, gout, rheumatism, whooping cough, anemia, allergies.
Nettle cleanses the blood and strengthens the body. Therefore, it can also be used by healthy people to prevent viral infections, increase stress resistance, and prevent metabolic disorders.
Methods of application
Nettle is not used to thin the blood, as it promotes blood thickening. But in the case of aqueous forms (juice, decoction, tea), this effect is little noticeable. Using the plant allows you to strengthen the body, normalize metabolism and cleanse blood vessels.
Decoction
To prepare a decoction of nettles, take 1 cup of the raw material and add 500 ml of water at room temperature. Place in a water bath, bring to a boil and keep on low heat for 15–20 minutes. Then wrap the container and leave under a ceramic lid for 2-3 hours (until it cools completely). Take half a glass orally 3 times a day before meals.
Nettle decoction is easy to make at home
It can be stored in the refrigerator or other cool place for a maximum of 2 days.
Juice
Freshly squeezed stinging nettle juice is used to cleanse the blood and treat anemia. The leaves are washed and crushed to obtain juice. Take 1 tsp. orally before lunch (3 times a day).
Tea
Dried leaves are used to make tea. Take 10 g of nettle (1 tbsp) and pour a glass of boiling water. Cover with a ceramic lid, or wrap it in cloth. Leave for three hours (until it cools completely), then filter. Drink tea throughout the day - half a glass in the morning and the same amount in the evening.
There is another recipe: take 25 g of nettle (2 heaped tablespoons) and pour 750 ml of boiling water. Leave for 10 minutes, then strain and take 8-10 times during the day, 1/3 cup.
Rules of application
Nettle has a beneficial effect on the body, but this does not mean that it can be taken by all people and in any quantity. The herb has both limitations and contraindications. Even a healthy person may experience individual intolerance to certain components. If an allergic reaction occurs, you should immediately stop taking the herbal drink and consult a doctor for advice.
In general, it lasts no more than 30 days, less often – up to three months (with weekly breaks every 3-4 weeks).
Nettle tea is taken daily for a month
Can I take it during pregnancy and breastfeeding?
There is no strict prohibition on taking herbs during pregnancy and breastfeeding.Nettle tea can be used even in the third trimester, as well as immediately after childbirth. For taste and benefit, you can add mint, raspberries, lemon or honey in small quantities.
However, you cannot start the course on your own - you will need to consult a doctor. During breastfeeding, taking nettle can cause allergies and metabolic disorders in the child. Therefore, it is better to postpone the use of decoctions.
At what age can children
According to general rules, children can be given nettle from the age of twelve. Kids don't need this herb. Even if a child has a problem with blood clotting, doctors prescribe other, more effective remedies.
Restrictions and contraindications
There is no direct connection between nettle and the formation of blood clots (platelet clots) in the blood. But this does not mean that the decoction and alcohol tincture can be consumed uncontrollably. In some cases, there are restrictions and contraindications to taking such drugs:
- increased blood clotting;
- renal failure;
- fluid retention;
- tumors;
- upcoming operations;
- individual intolerance to individual components.
Also, patients with severe pathologies should take nettle with caution: cerebrovascular accident, heart attack, thromboembolism and others. In these cases, you must especially strictly adhere to the doctor’s recommendations and not self-medicate.
Conclusion
The properties of nettle for the blood are mainly associated only with positive effects. The medicinal herb promotes cleansing, improves clotting processes, rejuvenates the body and strengthens the immune system. Nettle should not be considered as a cure for all diseases. This is only an additional treatment or prevention measure.If the doctor has established a certain course of therapy, then it should be considered priority.
