Stinging Nettle: The Natural Remedy for Promoting Hair Growth

I started using nettle as a leave in conditioner after learning about its benefits for the hair.  I knew I was on to something when my beautician asked what was I doing because my hair was so much stronger and shinier.  My hair health had greatly improved since my last visit with her three months prior. It was the homemade nettle leave-in conditioner I was using since my last visit.

Nettle, also known as Stinging nettle or Urtica dioica, is a plant that is often overlooked and dismissed as a weed. However, nettle has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for a variety of health conditions, including hair loss and to promote hair growth.

Benefits of stinging nettle for hair

Stinging nettle is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A and C, iron, and silica. These nutrients play an important role in promoting healthy hair growth and preventing hair loss. Here are some benefits of stinging nettle for hair:

1. Promotes hair growth: Stinging nettle contains a compound called beta-sitosterol that blocks the conversion of testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is a hormone that is known to cause hair loss in both men and women. By blocking the production of DHT, stinging nettle helps to promote hair growth.
2. Strengthens hair: Stinging nettle is rich in iron, which helps to increase the oxygen supply to the hair follicles. This increased oxygen supply strengthens the hair and promotes healthy growth.
3. Prevents hair loss: Stinging nettle also contains silica, which is important for maintaining healthy hair. Silica helps to prevent hair breakage and hair loss by strengthening the hair follicles.

Recipe for nettle leave-in conditioner

To make a nettle leave-in conditioner, you will need:

• 1/4 cup dried nettle leaves
• 2 cups water
• 2-3 drops of essential oil (optional)

Instructions:

1. Add the dried nettle with water in a pot.
2. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Strain the mixture and allow it to cool.
4. Add 2-3 drops of your favorite essential oil, such as lavender or rosemary (optional).
5. Pour the mixture into a spray bottle and use it as a leave-in conditioner after washing your hair. 
6. Saturate your hair well and style as usual.

Recipe for nettle hair rinse

To make a nettle hair rinse, you will need:

• 1/2 cup dried nettle
• 3 cups water
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Instructions:

1. Place dried nettle in a pot with three cups of water.
2. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
3. Strain the mixture and allow it to cool.
4. Add one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to the nettle tea and stir well.
5. After shampooing your hair, pour the nettle rinse over your hair and massage it into your scalp.
6. Leave the rinse on your hair for 15 minutes, then rinse it out with water.

Final thoughts

Give nettle a try if you’re struggling with brittle hair, breakage and hair loss.  Stinging nettle is a powerful natural remedy for promoting healthy hair growth and preventing hair loss. Whether you use a nettle leave-in conditioner or a nettle hair rinse, incorporating stinging nettle into your hair care routine can help to strengthen and nourish your hair. If you have any concerns about using stinging nettle, it’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional before trying any new remedies.