| Urtica massaica | |
|---|---|
Scientific classification  | |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Clade: | Tracheophytes |
| Clade: | Angiosperms |
| Clade: | Eudicots |
| Clade: | Rosids |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Urticaceae |
| Genus: | Urtica |
| Species: | U. massaica |
| Binomial name | |
| Urtica massaica | |
Urtica massaica is a species of flowering plant in the nettle family Urticaceae, referred to in English as the Maasai stinging nettle or forest nettle. [1] It is native to Africa, where it can be found in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Burundi, Rwanda, Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania; it is found in natural glades and clearings, frequently near houses. [1]
This plant is a rhizomatous perennial herb up to 2 metres (6 ft 7 in) tall. It is covered in stinging hairs. The heart-shaped leaves are up to 13 centimetres (5.1 in) long by 10.5 centimetres (4.1 in) wide and have serrated edges. The plant is dioecious. The flowers are borne in panicles. [1]
This plant is used for food and medicine in several African nations. It is used in Rwanda to treat diarrhea. [2] The Maasai use it to treat stomach ache. They are used in Kenya to treat malaria. Other medicinal uses include treatment of fractures and venereal diseases. [1]
The plant is also used to repel rats and to keep cattle out of crops. [1]