 Overview
Nettles, or stinging nettles, grow worldwide in wasteland areas. It grows 2-7 feet high with
pointed leaves and flowers of white to yellowish. Nettles have
a reputation for their savage sting from very fine glass-like hairs and
bristles present on the leaves and stems. The stinging sensation from
contact with the hairs is caused by the presence of formic acid and amines
(histamine, serotonin and choline).
Nettles are not poisonous and many people actually use them
for tea, medicinal purposes, etc. There's even a nettle eating contest in
England every year -- though unless you know the "secret method" we do not
recommend you try!
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