Nettle - Not Just a Prickly Plant

There are 30-40 species of flowering plants that call themselves Nettle. The name Nettle, translated from Latin means "I burn". They are mostly perennial but some are annuals - most are flowering, but some are shrubby, there is actually much diversity in Nettle. But one traits that is common to most Nettle plants is that they have stinging hairs that contain formic acid, serotonin, and histamine.

Although these plants are quite unpopular for the hiker or climber (as their prickles are not fun to run into), some of them are edible - making them a "survival" plant for those lost in the woods. However, even if you are not lost in the woods, Nettle can be found in certain culinary circles - as a substitute for spinach in creamed spinach and in tea. Nettle actually has quite a large amount of protein, which is sometimes hard to find in a vegetable. Dry Nettle can be used to brew tea and it gives off a rich, deep aroma and taste.

Medicinally Nettle has been considered to have potentially helpful effects on those suffering from hay-fever and those suffering from allergies. Additionally it has been said that there may be beneficial effects on kidneys, bladder, weight loss, diarrhea, and hemorrhoids.

Nettle also has been shown to possibly have great effects on hair and skin. Using Nettle in your hair case products may make your hair brighter, thicker, and shinier. It also may make your skin clearer and help with certain skin conditions such as eczema. One leading brand of Hotel Amenities, Aromae Botanicals, offers Nettle in its conditioner. The Aromae Botanicals, Chamomile and Nettle Conditioner provides deep conditioning, especially for sensitive skin.

The Aromae Botanicals line of hotel amenities is popular with Hotels and Bed and Breakfasts as it is an elegant collection of high-quality amenities that offers a complete line of amenities, from the Rosemary and Heather Conditioning Shampoo, to the Chamomile and Nettle Conditioner, and the Cucumber and Aloe Lotion, the line provides guests with a great smelling and good for you product.

Amy Todd has written several articles on hotel amenities.