Stinging Nettle - Urtica dioica

Stinging nettle, Urtica dioica, is a nutritional powerhouse. It contains flavonoids, tannins, volatile compounds, fatty acids, polysaccharides, isolectins, sterols, terpenes, protein, vitamins, and minerals. It contains good amounts of vitamins A, K, manganese, calcium, and fiber,

The hollow hairs called trichomes that cover the plant contain formic acid, which gives them their uncomfortable punch. Nettle contains acetylcholine, serotonin, and histamine. It creates a histamine reaction that relieves allergies by stabilizing mast cell walls. It is styptic, can help varicose veins, may relax blood vessels, and promote iron absorption. The lectin it contains may stimulate lymphocyte production.

Studies have shown it hasanti-proliferative, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, analgesic, immunological stimulatory, anti-infectious, hypotensive, anti-ulcer, anti-diabetic, anti-hypertensive, detoxifying, analgesic, and antinociceptive properties.

Studies have shown it has antiviral effects against HIV (HIV-1 and HIV-2), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and cytomegalovirus (CMV).

In women’s health it may be helpful for cramps, excessive bleeding, bloating, lactation, and prevention of UTIs.¹

Suggested dosing:Tincture 2-4 ml 3x day

Possible side effects: Digestive upset, allergic reactions, drowsiness, lowered potassium levels when combined with other diuretics.

Contraindications: Pregnancy. Consult your physician if taking diuretics, antihypertensives, antilipidemic, or blood thinning medications.

The study cited below contains many links to research on the benefits of nettle as discussed above.

¹Bhusal KK, Magar SK, Thapa R, Lamsal A, Bhandari S, Maharjan R, Shrestha S, Shrestha J. Nutritional and pharmacological importance of stinging nettle (Urtica dioica L.): A review. Heliyon. 2022 Jun 22;8(6): e09717. doi: 10.1016/j.heliyon. 2022.e09717. PMID: 35800714; PMCID: PMC9253158.

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose or treat any illness. I am not a medical professional and cannot diagnose or treat any illness.