Great potential of stinging nettle for sustainable textile and fashion

Abstract

Nettle is a common herbaceous plant, which regroups 30–45 species. It is part of the Urticaceae family such as ramie (Asian nettle, Boehmeria nivea) and belongs to the genus Urtica. The stinging nettle (Urtica Dioica) is the most prominent species in Europe and Himalayan ranges. This fibre also belongs to an ancient textile fibre. In this chapter deals with different aspects of sustainable process of production of fibre, methods of fibre extraction and their advantages, properties of nettle fibre, products from nettle and its blends. A comprehensive effort has been made to revamp the potentiality of sustainable development of fashionable textile and industrial materials from nettle fibre as well as form its byproducts. Overall, chapter covers various nettle-based handicraft and apparel products for luxury sector and their proper disposal.