Nettle
Introduction
This fact sheet provides basic information about Nettle. The nettle plant can found naturally in most temperate regions of the world. The tough fibers from the nettle stem have been used to make cloth and cooked nettle leaves have been consumed as a vegetable. Historically, nettle has been used to relieve coughs, tuberculosis, arthritis, and to stimulate hair growth.
Common Names
Nettle, White Nettle, Hemp Nettle, Common Nettle, Greater Nettle, Stinging Nettle, Devil's Leaf
Latin Names
Urtica dioica
What It Is Used For
- Hay fever symptoms, including sneezing and itching; urinary tract infections; kidney stones; and to increase urination.
- It also claims use as a remedy for premenstrual bloating and excessive menstrual bleeding.
- Nettle use is claimed to help relieve the early symptoms of benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH).
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How It Is Used
Historically, nettle has been applied topically to relieve pain associated with arthritis. While applying this stinging nettle to the skin has not been proven therapeutically effective, it is considered safe, yet a bit painful.
What the Science Says
- There is still some disagreement as to the identity of the active constituents in the nettle herb. While many researchers believe that polysaccharides and lectins are most likely to be the main constituents, it is still unclear.
Side Effects and Cautions
- Nettle has not been evaluated by the FDA for safety, effectiveness, or purity.
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