Stinging Nettle

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Stinging Nettle

Overview:

Stinging Nettle, Urtica dioica, is native to northern Europe and Asia, and is now grown all over the world. Stinging Nettle is also called Common Nettle and Greater Nettle (Sloan-Kettering). Stinging Nettle’s medicinal properties are derived from its leaves, stems, and roots.

It is available as a dried leaf, extract, capsule, tablet, tincture, juice, and tea. Stinging Nettle has applications in the treatment of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia, Osteoarthritis, Hay Fever, and Hypertension (UMMC).

Benefits:

Stinging Nettle has applications in the treatment of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia, otherwise known as an enlarged prostate. It is still not known how Stinging Nettle works, however research suggests it decreases testosterone activity (Sloan-Kettering). A study conducted, in which 558 patients were given Stinging Nettle for 6 months, demonstrated a decreased International Prostate Symptom Score, increased Maximum Urinary Flow Rates, as well as a decrease in Prostate Volume when compared to a placebo group (Safarinejad 1-11).

Stinging Nettle might also be helpful to individuals with Hay Fever or Allergic Rhinitis. Research has shown Stinging Nettle inhibits histamine receptors as well as prevents mast cell degranulation and its release of inflammatory agents (Roschek, Fink, McMichael, and et al 920-926). Its anti-inflammatory activity may also make Stinging Nettle useful in treating Osteoarthritis and related joint pain and stiffness (UMMC).

Side Effects:

Side effects of Stinging Nettle include upset stomach, fluid retention, sweating, diarrhea, and hives, and rash. Stinging Nettle should not be used by women who are pregnant or nursing (UMMC). Individuals on diuretics should avoid Stinging Nettle as it can have an additive impact. Also, Stinging Nettle taken with hypertension medication can cause blood pressure to drop too low (Sloan-Kettering). Stinging Nettle should also not be taken along with diabetes medications or anticoagulants (UMMC)

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