Nettle, the plant nobody loves… Long dismissed for its stinging, invasive nature, it actually has plenty going for it: it is nutritious, easy to cook with and can have a place in a balanced lifestyle. Set aside your prejudices about this admittedly prickly plant and discover what nettle is, what it contains, what you can reasonably expect from it when it comes to cellulite, and the different ways to consume or use it.
What is nettle?
Nettle is a herbaceous plant found in temperate regions across the world. There are two varieties: common nettle (urtica dioica) and small nettle (urtica urens). Only the former has traditionally been used in herbal medicine. Its components of interest are found mainly in its leaves, covered in long stinging hairs (ouch!), and in its roots.
What nettle contains and how it is used
Common nettle has plenty going for it! Rich in chlorophyll, it also contains vitamins (A and C), minerals (calcium, potassium, silicon), amino acids, protein and trace elements. Here is what it offers:
- Minerals: nettle provides calcium, potassium and silicon in particular, offering a pleasant way to vary your sources of minerals.
- Vitamins: its leaves provide vitamins A and C.
- Plant-based protein: an interesting option for people who are reducing their meat intake.
- As a poultice: in traditional folk practice, nettle has sometimes been used in poultices combined with green clay. For joint pain, aching muscles or a dislocation, always ask a doctor for advice.
- In beauty routines: used as a lotion, it can be incorporated into a skincare routine. If you have acne-prone skin, speak to a dermatologist.
- In cooking and infusions: its herby flavour adds variety and helps you drink more throughout the day.
Nettle and cellulite: what you need to know
Nettle is often mentioned in connection with cellulite, for two reasons.
A drink that can help you stay hydrated
Nettle is often mentioned in connection with so-called water-retention cellulite, associated with water retention. Let’s be clear: no plant can make this type of cellulite disappear. It is nevertheless useful to understand the phenomenon. Water is constantly moving around the body: it is delivered to the cells that need it and then eliminated, notably through the kidneys. When this cycle is disrupted, water may tend to build up in the tissues. Trapped beneath the skin, it can make the affected areas look swollen, making the appearance of cellulite more noticeable. It can become a vicious circle over time.
In this context, nettle infusion can simply help you drink more throughout the day. It also has a pleasant herby flavour. When it comes to skincare, pair it with cosmetic rituals: regular massage, for example with a cupping cup, can be incorporated into a care routine for the affected areas.
The liver and digestion
Let’s talk about the liver! This organ plays an important role in healthy digestion — and much more. It helps transform sugars, fats and proteins into energy. When your diet regularly provides more energy than your body uses, the surplus is stored, including as fat… Adipose cellulite is often associated with this imbalance.
No plant, including nettle, can rebalance this process on its own. However, whether cooked or enjoyed as an infusion, nettle has its place in a varied diet rich in vegetables and low in added sugars, which remains the foundation of a healthy lifestyle. If you are taking medication, particularly for diabetes, ask your doctor for advice before consuming nettle regularly.
In what forms can nettle be consumed?
The simplest way to enjoy nettle is probably as an infusion. Nettle tea is made using the plant’s leaves or roots. It can be drunk daily, keeping to the quantities below:
- Root infusion: boil 1.5 g of powdered roots for 10 minutes. Leave to steep for a further 10 minutes, then strain.
- Leaf infusion: boil 3 tbsp of dried nettle leaves in 500 ml of water.
You can flavour your nettle tea with lemon — it will only make it better. This citrus fruit also provides vitamin C and a zesty note, which you will also find in our infusion!
Nettle can also be used topically. A few drops of nettle essential oil, blended with a natural vegetable oil (olive, sweet almond, wheat germ…), make a pleasant massage lotion for caring for areas affected by cellulite. For an invigorating massage, use our Cellublue cup, which will complete your ritual.
The cupping tool that replicates pinching and rolling, 3 minutes per zone
- The professionals' technique, at home: you lift, glide, and release, and the tool grips the skin fold like a manual pinching and rolling
- Soft silicone that fits thighs, buttocks, stomach, and arms
- 3 minutes per zone, every day, always with a massage oil so the tool glides
You can also consume nettle as food and benefit from its nutritional contribution. It is very rich in plant-based protein (ideal for vegetarians) and low in calories, making it an interesting ingredient for adding variety to a balanced diet. There are two options:
- The quick option: nettle powder capsules are available. Be sure to consult your pharmacist before starting a course — they will guide you towards a quality product and advise on the correct dosage.
- The foodie option: nettle is edible and absolutely delicious! Sautéed, used in stuffing, as pesto or in a soup, it lends itself to all kinds of recipes. To cook with it, you’ll need to go and pick it. You can harvest it from March to late November — just make sure to wear gloves! And don’t worry: once cooked, it no longer stings.
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Useful categories: Plants.
