Nettle (Urtica dioica)
Botanical Description
- Family: Urticaceae (Nettle family)
- Common Names: Stinging Nettle, Common Nettle, Big Nettle
- Parts Used: Leaves, Stems, Roots, Seeds
- Native Habitat: Widespread across the UK and Isle of Man, thriving in hedgerows, woodlands, riverbanks, and disturbed ground.
Nettle is a highly nutritious, medicinal, and versatile herb, historically used for blood purification, joint health, and as a tonic for vitality in humans and animals.
Equine Use of Nettle
Benefits for Horses
- Blood & Circulatory Support – Increases red blood cell production and improves circulation.
- Joint & Anti-Inflammatory Support – Helps with arthritis and muscle recovery.
- Hoof & Coat Health – Strengthens hooves, skin, and mane.
- Allergy Relief – Reduces itching and seasonal allergies.
- Diuretic & Kidney Support – Aids in flushing toxins and reducing fluid retention.
Administration for Horses
- Dried Leaves (Most Common Form):
- Fresh Nettle (Wilted to Remove Stings):
- Handfuls added to feed for nutritional support.
- Tea Infusion (For Hydration & Detox):
- Cooled nettle tea added to drinking water.
- Poultice (For Joint & Skin Health):
- Applied to wounds, stiff joints, or itchy skin.
⚠ Precautions
- High doses may act as a strong diuretic.
- Use caution in pregnant mares.
Canine Use of Nettle
Benefits for Dogs
- Allergy & Itch Relief – Reduces skin irritation and hay fever symptoms.
- Joint & Mobility Support – Eases arthritis and stiffness.
- Iron & Blood Boosting – Supports anemia and overall vitality.
- Urinary Health – Helps with kidney and bladder infections.
- Immune & Detox Support – Cleanses the liver and supports immunity.
Administration for Dogs
- Dried Leaves (In Food):
- Tea Infusion (For Hydration & Detox):
- Dried nettle steeped in warm water, cooled and added to food.
- Poultice (For Skin Conditions & Wounds):
- Applied directly to itchy, inflamed areas.
⚠ Precautions
- Avoid giving raw fresh nettles (can cause mouth irritation).
- Excessive use may cause increased urination.
- Not recommended for pregnant or lactating dogs without veterinary guidance.
UK & Isle of Man Folklore of Nettle
Folklore & Historical Use
- Protection Against Evil & Bad Luck – Hung over doorways in the Isle of Man to ward off evil spirits and bad omens.
- Used in Celtic Rituals – Burned in purification ceremonies to remove negativity.
- Sting for Strength & Pain Relief – The practice of urtication (whipping skin with nettles) was believed to cure arthritis and improve circulation.
- Fishermen’s Superstition – Carrying nettle was thought to prevent drowning at sea.
- Healing & Vitality Herb – Used by herbalists in medieval Britain for blood purification and recovery from illness.
Calming
Coat and Skin
Detox
Hooves
Inflamation
Mobility
Wellbeing
Neem (Azadirachta indica)
Oregano (Origanum vulgare)