05/28/2026
A remarkable healing story —
Stinging Nettle to the rescue!
Nettle flogging, also known as urtication, is not merely an ancient folk practice, but a valuable therapeutic strategy still used today.
Urtication involves applying fresh nettle topically to stimulate circulation, nerve activity, and localized healing.
Meet Rebecca — a lovely client and student of mine. Nettle urtication has brought her tremendous healing, helping restore function to her finger after a serious injury.
Last September, she accidentally severed the tendon in her right index finger with broken glass. An infection led to scar tissue and inflammation that prevented the joint from bending. Over time, it developed into a chronic pain condition with limited use of her hand.
She used herbs throughout her recovery to help stabilize her system after antibiotics and surgery.
Then, when the fresh nettles emerged this spring, she began applying them directly to the affected area. She willingly embraced the sting, irritation, and mild swelling in exchange for what she describes as “the best relief she’s had since the accident.”
She now has more feeling, flexibility, and mobility in her finger — something especially meaningful because she is an artist, and her hands are her tools.
The treatment can become intensely itchy afterward, but Rebecca makes her own herbal salve to soothe the irritation.
She can’t wait to tell her surgeon about it this summer when she returns for a second attempt at surgery.
Nettle will forever be her hero.
I’m deeply impressed by Rebecca’s perseverance and commitment to herbal healing. Sometimes a little short-term sting can bring long-term gain.
