Urtica pilulifera Roman nettle (Urticaceae)

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Urtica pilulifera
Roman nettle
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The Urtica pilulifera plant species is found in Europe. It is a member of the Urticaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Roman nettle.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Urtica pilulifera
Common Name:  Roman nettle
Family:  Urticaceae
Author:  L.

Known Hazards:  The leaves of the plants have stinging hairs, causing irritation to the skin[21, 200]. This action is neutralized by heat so the cooked leaves are perfectly safe and nutritious[200]. However, only young leaves should be used because older leaves develop gritty particles called cystoliths which act as an irritant to the kidneys[172].

Mature Height:  0.6   Mature Width:

Habitat:  A weed of cultivated land and waste places, preferring light soils[17].

Medicinal Information: Nettles have a long history of use in the home as a herbal remedy. A tea made from the leaves has traditionally been used as a tonic and blood purifier. The whole plant is antiasthmatic, antidandruff, astringent, depurative, diuretic, galactogogue, haemostatic, hypoglycaemic and a stimulating tonic[4, 9, 21, 36, 165, 238, 240]. An infusion of the plant is very valuable in stemming internal bleeding[4], it is aso used to treat anaemia, excessive menstruation, haemorrhoids, arthritis, rheumatism and skin complaints, especially eczema[238]. Externally, the plant is used to treat arthritic pain, gout, sciatica, neuralgia, haemorrhoids, hair problems etc[238]. For medicinal purposes, the plant is best harvested in May or June as it is coming into flower and dried for later use[4, 238]. This species merits further study for possible uses against kidney and urinary system ailments[222]. The juice of the nettle can be used as an antidote to stings from the leaves and an infusion of the fresh leaves is healing and soothing as a lotion for burns[4]. A homeopathic remedy is made from the fresh plant, gathered when in flower[232]. A useful first-aid remedy, it is used in the treatment of ailments such as bites and stings, burns, hives and breastfeeding problems[232].

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

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