
General Information
OTHER NAMES: Urtica dioica, stinging nettle
HISTORY: Used in Greek times
PROPERTIES: Astringent, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, analgesic, antibacterial, expectorant
Considered Uses
Respiratory: Flu, allergies, nose bleeds, asthma, lung congestion (expectorant).
Cardiovascular: Promotes circulation, may support better blood pressure
Gastrointestinal: Stomach issues, internal bleeding, stomach acid, ulcers, diarrhea (tea), dysentery, laxative
Genitourinary: UTIs, kidney stones, BPH (Benign prostatic hypertrophy) (root), may increase testosterone
Musculoskeletal: Rheumatism, osteoarthritis, gout, joint ailments, osteoarthritis (oral and topical), muscle aches, muscle building
Neurologic: Possibly sedating
Skin: Rash, eczema, wound healing, oily hair, alopecia (hair loss)
Glucose: May help to decrease blood sugar
Cancer: May support the body in fighting against certain cancers
Psych: Possibly antianxiety, antidepressant
Other: Diuretic, anemia, anti-aging
* * *
SIDE EFFECTS: Indigestion, diarrhea, constipation, dermatitis (skin irritation), hypoglycemia, hypotension (low blood pressure), sedation, sweating
CAUTION/CONTRAINDICATIONS: Caution is advised if taking diabetic medications, blood thinners, blood pressure-lowering medication, clotting disorders, as well as in those with low blood pressure, preexisting kidney problems, taking sedatives, diuretics, or lithium.
FORMS: Elixers, capsules, teas, extracts, tablets, tinctures, ointment/cream, leaves, "irrigation" (Europe)
RECOMMENDED BRANDS
No currently available recommended products
DOSAGE: As directed
Reported doses – May NOT be supported by evidence (reported by various sources (WebMD, RxList, Epocrates, German Commission E and others). Read dosages and instructions carefully when available on label.
For arthritis, take 1 cup of nettle tea three times daily, up to 1300 mg capsule daily, depending on the condition being treated.
*Disclaimer: The material above is for informational purposes only. This information is not intended to diagnose or treat a condition. The uses listed above are tentative; some have or are undergoing research trials, but many are not FDA-approved. It is essential that you investigate these supplements further before deciding to use them. Check interactions and contraindications on sites like Drugs.com or WebMD. Do not attempt to treat a serious condition like liver, kidney problems, high blood pressure, heart, cancer, diabetes, or thyroid issues without discussing it with a healthcare provider first. If you are pregnant, do not use supplements without discussing it with your healthcare provider.