Nettle

About: The sting of wild nettle is caused by tiny hollow hairs that inject histamine, formic acid, and other irritants — but ironically, nettle is also used to treat allergies and hay fever. Some traditional healers even used nettling (light stings) to treat joint pain — a practice known as urtication.

Identification: Nettle grows tall, often reaching 1 to 2 meters in height. It has opposite, serrated leaves that are dark green and covered with fine, stinging hairs. The stems also bear these stinging hairs. Small greenish flowers appear in clusters along the leaf axils. When touched, the hairs inject irritating chemicals causing a burning sensation.

Habitat: Nettle thrives in fertile, nitrogen-rich soils often found near human habitation, along riverbanks, forest edges, and disturbed areas like gardens and roadsides. It prefers partial shade to full sun and is common in temperate regions, including parts of South Africa with suitable climates.

Uses: Young nettle leaves can be cooked and eaten like spinach or brewed into tea, which is used to alleviate allergies, improve circulation, and reduce inflammation. Medicinally, nettle has been used traditionally to treat arthritis, hay fever, and urinary problems. It is also used in natural dyes and as a fibre source for textiles.

Harvesting Tips: Harvest nettle in early spring when the plants are young and tender, before flowering for best taste and nutritional value. Use gloves to avoid stings, and cut the top few inches of the plant. Cooking or drying neutralizes the stinging hairs, making the leaves safe to eat and handle.

Fun Fact: The sting of wild nettle is caused by tiny hollow hairs that inject histamine, formic acid, and other irritants — but ironically, nettle is also used to treat allergies and hay fever. Some traditional healers even used nettling (light stings) to treat joint pain — a practice known as urtication.