Common nettle is a perennial, large (length 60-170 cm) herbaceous plant of nettle family. It is common in moist, nutrient-rich soils, especially drained peat soils, which are rich in nitrogen. Common nettle has stinging hairs on the leaves and stems, which, when they come in contact with humans or other animals, inject histamine and other chemicals into the skin, causing a burning sensation. For this reason, animals do not eat fresh nettles. This species has been widely used by humans since ancient times – nettles can be used to steam and flap oneself on sauna bench or rub sore joints and back. Nettle irritates, improves blood circulation and reduces pain. Young shoots of common nettles are consumed in the spring, the leaves are rich in protein, vitamins and minerals, they contain a lot of vitamin C, protein, potassium, iron and calcium. Since the 16th century nettle has been mentioned as an effective wound healing treatment. In the past, when cotton fibre was not yet imported into Europe, nettle fibre was used to make ropes, fabrics, nets and paper.
