Stinging nettle or common nettle, Urtica dioica, is a herbaceous perennial flowering plant, native to Europe, Asia, northern Africa, and North America, and is the best-known member of the nettle genus Urtica. The plant has many hollow stinging hairs called trichomes on its leaves and stems, which act like hypodermic needles, injecting histamine and other chemicals that produce a stinging sensation when contacted by humans and other animals. The plant has a long history of use as a medicine and as a food source.
Read more about Stinging Nettle: Description, Taxonomy, Distribution, Ecology, Medicinal Uses, Food, Drink, Nettle Sting Avoidance, Nettle Sting Treatment, Influence On Language and Culture, Textiles, Gardening, Gallery
Famous quotes containing the words stinging and/or nettle:
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—Thornton Wilder (1897–1975)