Nettle
Botanical name(s):
Urtica dioica L. Family: Urticaceae
Other name(s):
common nettle, greater nettle, stinging nettle
General description
Stinging nettle is a medicinal herb plant known for its stinging leaves. It has tiny
stinging hairs covering its surface. Contact with the plant produces a stinging, itchy,
or burning rash on your skin. It also causes swelling and redness at the site of contact.
This reaction is due to histamine from the plant that’s released when the hairs pierce
your skin.
There are several species of stinging nettle. These include Urtica dioica, Urtica
urens, and Urtica pilulifera. Nettle grows wild in temperate regions. It can reach
2 to 3 feet in height. Nettle has a long reputation in folk medicine. It’s used to
treat asthma. It’s also used as an expectorant, astringent, tonic, antispasmodic,
and diuretic.
Medically valid uses
Nettle is used to treat benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH). It’s used with other treatments.
Nettle extract may help BPH by binding to sites on sex hormone binding globulin. This
lessens testosterone's effect on the prostate. But studies conflict on how well it
works. More research is needed.
Unsubstantiated claims
There may be benefits that haven't yet been proven through research.
Nettle extract may get in the way of inflammation. Inflammation is a major cause of
pain and joint damage due to arthritis. But there’s little evidence to support how
well this herb works for this condition. More research is needed.
Nettle may help manage:
Dosing format
Nettle comes in the form of tablets, liquid, tincture, and tea. The dose may vary
depending on conditions being treated. Follow directions on the package or talk with
your healthcare provider for dosing information.
Side effects, toxicity, and interactions
This herb doesn’t cause side effects when you use it correctly. Allergic reactions
only happen in rare cases. Nettle may cause stomach cramps or diarrhea. If this happens,
stop using it or use less of it.
People who are pregnant or breastfeeding shouldn’t take this herb. This is because
it can act like a diuretic.
Nettle can change the effects of medicines that affect blood pressure. These include
diuretics and antihypertensives.
Don't take nettle if you take medicines, herbs, or other supplements. Check with your
healthcare provider or pharmacist first.