Steam or boil leaves and shoots lightly as a vegetable, and drink the water in which they were cooked. Once cooked, the leaves no longer sting. Add to soups and stews. A strong decoction of the leaves can be used as a rennet to curdle milk or make junket puddings. Dried, the leaves make a good substitute for salt.

Infusions of the plant should be well strained. Flowers, leaves and shoots are an excellent source of Vitamins A and C and several minerals. Excellent tonic for the entire system. Used to stop bleeding, especially nosebleeds and uterine bleeding. A specific for treating eczema, anaemia, hayfever and food or pollen allergies. Also used for colds, bronchitis, urinary problems, prostatitis and rheumatism, Mature leaves are mildly laxative. Helps to increase flow of milk in nursing mothers. Use as a gargle for sore throat and bleeding gums, or as a hair rinse to treat dandruff. Use as a douche for vaginal yeast infections.

Above-ground parts of the plant yield a green-yellow dye with an alum mordant. Water of fermented leaves is used to control mildew and as a plant fertiliser. Cover leaves and stems with water and leave for 1-2 weeks. Use diluted. The solid matter can be used as mulch. Seeds provide an illuminating oil. The stems provide fibre for twine, cloth-making and papermaking. Major commercial source of chlorophyll for colouring fats, oils, soaps, and foodstuffs. Cut and dried nettle is a good fodder for livestock. Added to soaps and lotions etc the tea is good for sensitive skins. Added to sage or rosemary teas, it is good for darkening hair which is beginning to turn grey.