Nettle
Nettle
Snapshot
Nettle (Urtica dioica) is a nutrient‑rich herb used to support joint comfort, seasonal allergy relief, and urinary tract health.
What is Nettle?
Nettle is a perennial flowering plant whose leaves and stems contain bioactive compounds—including flavonoids, phenolic acids, and lectins—that exert anti‑inflammatory and diuretic effects.
Where It Comes From
Harvested from nettle plants in spring and early summer, leaves are dried or extracted into tinctures and capsules. Roots are also used in extracts targeting prostate and urinary health.
Key Nutrients & Compounds
Rich in quercetin, chlorogenic acid, lectins, minerals (iron, calcium, magnesium), and vitamins (A, C, K), providing antioxidant, anti‑inflammatory, and diuretic actions.
Health Benefits
Nettle supports joint comfort by inhibiting pro‑inflammatory mediators; alleviates symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis; promotes urinary flow and may relieve benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) symptoms.
Recommended Dosage
Leaf powder or extract: 300–600 mg twice daily; tincture (1:5): 1–2 mL, 2–3 times daily. Root extract for BPH: 120–240 mg daily of standardized preparation.
How to Use It
Take capsules or powder with water, or sip nettle tea (1–2 tsp dried herb steeped 10 min) 1–3 times daily. Tinctures can be diluted in water or juice.
Who Should Use It?
Individuals with osteoarthritis or seasonal allergies; men experiencing mild prostate enlargement; anyone seeking a natural diuretic and nutrient boost.
Possible Interactions or Cautions
May interact with blood pressure or blood sugar medications; diuretic effect can alter lithium levels; handle fresh nettle carefully to avoid stings; discontinue if gastrointestinal upset occurs.
Final Thoughts
Nettle is a versatile botanical that combines nutrient density with anti‑inflammatory and diuretic properties, making it valuable for joint, allergy, and urinary support.
Scientific Studies
Randall C, Randall H, Dobetsberger C, et al. Randomized controlled trial of Urtica dioica for treatment of allergic rhinitis. Planta Med. 2000;66(8): 636–640. https://doi.org/10.1055/s-2000-9708
Chrubasik JE, Roufogalis BD, Wagner H, et al. A comprehensive review on the stinging nettle effect and efficacy profiles: part I—urinary tract and cardiovascular disorders. Phytomedicine. 2007;14(1): 2–22. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phymed.2006.07.008
Upton R, Graff A, Williamson EM. American Herbal Pharmacopoeia: Urtica dioica—Nettle Root. American Herbal Products Association; 2013.