03/26/2024
Dead purple nettle (Lamium purpureum) is one of the first Spring medicines to pop up. Most view this plant as an annoying w**d, but it actually has so many uses.
Purple dead nettle is known in the herbal world as being astringent, antihistamine, diuretic, diaphoretic and purgative. It’s also anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and anti-fungal. In larger amounts, purple nettle can have a laxative effect for those suffering from constipation.
In folk medicine, dead purple nettle is said to cure the symptoms of UTI ( Urinary track infection)
The most this common way dead purple nettle is used is in a salve or poultice form. This plant seems to provide the most benefits when used topically and can be applied directly on wounds, scrapes, splinters, slivers and other skin irritations.
Dead purple nettle is also edible! You can eat this plant fresh by adding to salads, soup, eggs, etc. You can also saute it with other delicious greens! Or,...drink in a tea by adding 1 to 2 tsp of dead purple nettle to a cup, and pour 1 cup of boiling water over. Steep 10 - 15, strain and enjoy
Purple Nettle is sometimes confused for henbit (Lamium amplexicaule) which is closely related. You don't need to be terrified if you miss identify however, because henbit is another tasty edible w**d
