Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica) is infamous for its painful sting—but thankfully, the irritation doesn’t last forever. Whether you’ve brushed against it accidentally or deliberately foraged it, understanding why the sting fades (and how to speed up relief) can turn a painful encounter into a fascinating lesson in plant chemistry.
Why Does Nettle Sting in the First Place?
The stems and leaves of stinging nettle are covered in tiny, needle-like hairs (trichomes) that act like hypodermic needles. When touched, these hairs break off and inject a cocktail of irritating chemicals, including:
- Histamine (causes itching and swelling)
- Acetylcholine (triggers burning pain)
- Serotonin (intensifies discomfort)
- Formic acid (the same irritant in ant bites)
What Makes the Sting Stop?
The pain and itch typically fade within minutes to hours due to several natural processes:
1. Chemical Breakdown
- The body neutralizes acids (like formic acid) with its own buffers.
- Enzymes in the skin gradually metabolize acetylcholine and histamine.
2. Dilution by Bloodflow
- Increased bloodflow to the area (caused by inflammation) washes away irritants.
3. Mechanical Removal
- The brittle hairs often remain embedded in the skin, but their chemical payload is eventually depleted.
4. Heat & Drying
- Applying heat (e.g., warm water) or letting the area dry can denature the proteins in the toxins, reducing their effect.
How to Speed Up Relief
If you’re stung, try these science-backed remedies:
1. Wash with Soap and Water
- Removes residual hairs and chemicals.
2. Apply a Baking Soda Paste
- Neutralizes formic acid (mix with water and dab on the sting).
3. Use a Plantain Poultice
- Crush plantain leaves (a common weed) and rub them on the sting—their anti-inflammatory compounds help.
4. Heat or Cold Therapy
- Heat (45–50°C / 113–122°F) breaks down toxins.
- Ice numbs the area and reduces swelling.
5. Over-the-Counter Solutions
- Antihistamines (like Benadryl) or hydrocortisone cream can ease reactions.
Why Doesn’t Cooked Nettle Sting?
Heat (from boiling, steaming, or drying) destroys the stinging hairs’ structure, rendering them harmless. That’s why foraged nettles are safe to eat after cooking!
Fun Fact: Nettle’s “Tame” Relative
The dead nettle (Lamium species) looks similar but lacks stinging hairs—a harmless imposter!
Final Thoughts
While a nettle sting is painful, it’s temporary—thanks to our body’s defenses and simple remedies. Next time you encounter this prickly plant, you’ll know exactly why it stops stinging and how to fight back!
