Nettles (plural: bells), a group of aromatic and flavorful herbs, are in use since antiquity. Their medicinal properties have been investigated and valued for thousands of years. In addition to being used in cooking, many of the culinary herbs can be used as spices, flavorings and even in herbal medicine for treating a number of health conditions. This paper reviews the physiological and nutritional value of nettles for human and animal consumption.
Nettles are mainly used as flavoring and aroma ingredient in food. Some of the well-known ones include Angelica plant, Coriander plant, Ginger plant, Fennel seed, Hing Zhu, Lemon flower, Oregano flower, Rose hips and Sugar cane. Nettles are rich source of vitamin C and have been considered as powerful antioxidants with great health benefits. They are a rich source of vitamin A, C, E, beta carotene, niacin, phosphorus, potassium, thiamine, riboflavin, folic acid and several B vitamins.
Nettles are rich in fiber and are considered to be low in fat. They may help in reducing cholesterol and gallbladder conditions and are rich in potassium. They also provide a good amount of magnesium, manganese and iron, with the exception of magnesium which may help only in case of anemia. Nettles are a major source of vitamin C and contain a good amount of vitamin A and potassium, together with folic acid. They may help in improving eyesight.
The origin of nettles is from the perennial plant Urtica dioica. It is grown all over the world in temperate climates, preferring sunny regions. Nettles are not only a source of vitamins like vitamin C and K2 but are also rich in potassium, fiber, and minerals. Nettles are rich source of calcium, phosphorus, manganese, iron and selenium and are considered as bio-active food.
As far as dietary fibers are concerned, this green leafy vegetable is very rich in it and has been regarded since ancient times as very beneficial for health. Nettles contain important dietary fibers in the form of flax seed, beta glucan, and inulin, which help in maintaining a healthy gastrointestinal tract and prevents constipation. It is also rich in vitamin A, C, and E and also contains some minerals like potassium, magnesium, thiamine, folate, niacin etc. Nettle is also considered to be a rich source of dietary proteins and antioxidants. Some interesting facts about nettles are that its root can be converted into a sweet liquor and in some regions it is even used to flavor food.
Nettles are available in dried, fresh and powdered form and is popular all around the world. It has been seen that both young and old people love this vegetable. It is one of the best sources of vitamin C and is also rich source of potassium, thiamine, and inulin and is considered as a dietary fiber.