Organic Nettle Leaf
Also known as: Urtica dioica, Stinging Nettle, Nettle Leaf
Overview
Urtica dioica, commonly known as stinging nettle, is a plant native to Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia. It is characterized by leaves and stems that cause a stinging sensation upon contact. Both the leaves and roots of the plant are utilized in herbal preparations. Traditionally, it has been used for its anti-inflammatory, antihistamine, and diuretic properties. Current applications include managing benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The plant contains bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, terpenes, and phenolic acids, which contribute to its therapeutic effects. Research on nettle is moderately mature, with several randomized controlled trials and systematic reviews available, although more high-quality studies are needed to confirm some findings. Evidence quality varies, with some high-quality systematic reviews and meta-analyses, but also studies with methodological limitations and conflicting results.
Benefits
Nettle leaf has shown potential benefits in glycemic control for individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). A meta-analysis indicated a significant reduction in fasting blood sugar (FBS) concentrations following nettle supplementation. Additionally, Urtica dioica has demonstrated effectiveness in treating lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), with improvements in the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) and maximum urinary flow rates. In vitro studies suggest anti-inflammatory properties, including the inhibition of COX-1 and COX-2, and antihistamine effects through H1-receptor inactivation, though clinical evidence is limited. The reduction in FBS concentrations is clinically significant for managing glycemic control in T2DM patients, and improvements in IPSS and urinary flow rates are clinically relevant for BPH symptom management. Benefits on glycemic control were observed over several weeks to months, while BPH improvements were noted over 6 months to 1 year.
How it works
Nettle extracts influence glucose metabolism, insulin sensitivity, and inflammatory pathways. It interacts with the endocrine system by affecting insulin levels and glucose metabolism and with the urinary system by improving LUTS in BPH. Molecular targets include the inhibition of COX-1 and COX-2, H1-receptor inactivation, and modulation of cytokine production. The bioavailability of nettle extracts can vary depending on the extraction method and form of the supplement. Lipophilic extracts may have higher anti-inflammatory potency and less cytotoxicity compared to aqueous or alcohol extracts.
Side effects
Nettle is generally considered safe, with mild side effects being the most common. These include mild gastrointestinal symptoms and, rarely, allergic reactions. Uncommon side effects include urinary infections, although these were fewer in the active ingredient group compared to placebo in some studies. Severe allergic reactions are rare. Nettle may interact with diabetes medications and blood thinners due to its effects on glucose metabolism and blood clotting. It is contraindicated in pregnancy and breastfeeding due to limited safety studies in these populations. Patients with diabetes should monitor their blood sugar levels closely when using nettle supplements. Men with BPH should consult their healthcare provider before using nettle for LUTS management.
Dosage
The effective dose of nettle varies by condition. For T2DM, studies have used dosages around 500-1000 mg per day of nettle leaf extract. For BPH, 459 mg of dry extract of stinging nettle roots per day has been used in clinical studies. There is no established maximum safe dose, but doses above 1000 mg per day are less commonly studied. Consistent daily dosing is typical, and there are no specific timing recommendations. Lipophilic extracts may be more effective for inflammatory conditions. Bioavailability can be influenced by the extraction method and the presence of other nutrients or compounds. No specific cofactors are required, but a balanced diet and adequate hydration may enhance the bioavailability of the active compounds.
FAQs
Is nettle safe to use?
Nettle is generally safe but can cause mild side effects and interact with certain medications. Consult with a healthcare provider before use, especially if you have existing health conditions.
When should I take nettle?
There is no specific timing recommended; it can be taken at any time of day. Consistent daily dosing is generally practiced in studies.
What results can I expect from taking nettle?
For T2DM, a reduction in FBS levels can be expected. For BPH, improvements in LUTS can be anticipated. Results may vary among individuals.
Is nettle a cure for diabetes or BPH?
Nettle is not a cure for diabetes or BPH but can be a complementary therapy to manage symptoms. It should be used in conjunction with other treatments.
Research Sources
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ptr.6535 – This systematic review and meta-analysis of eight RCTs involving 401 participants with T2DM found a significant reduction in fasting blood sugar concentrations with nettle supplementation. The weighted mean difference was -18.01 mg/dl (95% CI: -30.04 to -5.97, p < .001). However, there was high heterogeneity among the studies (I² = 94.6%).
- https://www.researchgate.net/publication/298802540_The_efficacy_and_safety_of_Urtica_dioica_in_treating_benign_prostatic_hyperplasia_A_systematic_review_and_meta-analysis – This meta-analysis assessed the efficacy and safety of Urtica dioica in treating benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). The review indicated that Urtica dioica is effective and safe in treating lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) associated with BPH, with improvements in International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) and maximum urinary flow rates. Some studies included combination products, and individual study results were contradictory.
- https://institutionalrepository.aah.org/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1216&context=jpcrr – This review discusses the anti-inflammatory and antihistamine effects of nettle through various molecular mechanisms. It highlights the need for further clinical trials to confirm the efficacy of nettle, as current evidence is limited and primarily based on in vitro studies. The review suggests that lipophilic extracts may have higher anti-inflammatory potency and less cytotoxicity compared to aqueous or alcohol extracts.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31802554/ – This study investigates the effects of nettle supplementation. Further details about the study's design, population, and specific findings would be needed for a more comprehensive summary.
- https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/CRDWeb/ShowRecord.asp?ID=12001001991&ID=12001001991 – This record provides information on a systematic review related to nettle. Further details about the review's design, population, and specific findings would be needed for a more comprehensive summary.
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