Standardized Nettles Extract
Also known as: Stinging Nettle, Nettle, Urtica dioica
Overview
Urtica dioica, commonly known as stinging nettle, is a perennial plant native to Europe, North Africa, and parts of Asia. The plant is characterized by its stinging hairs that can cause irritation upon contact. Traditionally, it has been utilized in folk medicine for its various therapeutic properties, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and analgesic effects. Nettle extracts are particularly noted for their potential benefits in managing benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), type 2 diabetes, and arthritis due to the presence of bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, terpenes, and phenolic acids. Clinical research has provided varied evidence concerning its efficacy, highlighting the need for further high-quality studies to confirm its therapeutic potential.
Benefits
Nettle extracts have demonstrated several evidence-based benefits. A significant meta-analysis revealed a drop in fasting blood sugar (FBS) levels among type 2 diabetes patients, where supplementation reduced FBS by 18.01 mg/dl (p < 0.001) across eight randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving 401 participants. Additionally, extracts have been shown to alleviate symptoms of BPH, particularly in studies utilizing the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS). Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties have also been noted, supporting potential applications in various inflammatory conditions. However, while some pain reduction effects have been observed, results remain inconsistent, indicating varying efficacy among studies.
How it works
Nettle extracts exert their effects primarily through several biological pathways. They have been shown to lower sex hormone-binding globulin and inhibit enzymes such as 5-alpha-reductase and aromatase, which are involved in hormone metabolism. Additionally, nettle facilitates anti-inflammatory effects by interacting with the immune system, potentially impacting the pathways that influence conditions like BPH and diabetes. Molecules like PPAR-α and PPAR-γ are involved as transcription factors, aiding in anti-inflammatory signaling and metabolic regulation.
Side effects
Generally well-tolerated, nettle extracts can cause minor and transient side effects such as gastrointestinal discomfort (diarrhea, gastric pain, nausea) in over 5% of users. Less common side effects (1-5%) include hypoglycemia, gynecomastia, and galactorrhea, while significant rare side effects (less than 1%) have not been consistently reported. There are no well-documented drug interactions, though caution is recommended for those with hormonal-sensitive conditions. Contraindications exist for pregnant and lactating women, as well as children under 12 years, due to the potential impact on hormone metabolism.
Dosage
The recommended minimum effective dose for benign prostatic hyperplasia is approximately 360 mg per day for aqueous root extract and between 600-1200 mg daily for methanol root extract. Optimal dosages for type 2 diabetes are less defined, as studies included varying dosages without a consensus. There is no established maximum safe dosage, although trials have utilized up to 1200 mg daily without significant adverse outcomes. Timing of dose administration is flexible, but consistent dosing is encouraged. Both aqueous and methanol extracts show variable absorption, with aqueous extracts possibly offering higher bioavailability.
FAQs
Are nettle extracts safe?
Nettle extracts are generally safe for most adults but should be avoided during pregnancy, lactation, and in children under 12 years of age.
How should I take nettle extracts?
Consistency in dosing is key; while timing is not critical, daily supplementation at the prescribed dose is recommended.
What results can I expect from nettle supplementation?
Improvements in fasting blood sugar levels and symptoms associated with BPH have been noted, but individual responses may vary.
Is nettle a cure for any disease?
Nettle extracts are not cures but may serve as adjuncts to conventional therapies for certain conditions.
Research Sources
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ptr.6535 – This systematic review and meta-analysis assessed the impact of nettle supplementation on glycemic control in type 2 diabetes patients, concluding a significant reduction in fasting blood sugar levels across eight randomized controlled trials.
- https://journals.iium.edu.my/ijahs/index.php/IJAHS/article/download/755/704/4132 – The clinical trials evaluated nettle’s effectiveness in managing symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia, indicating improvements in symptom scores; however, the studies exhibited moderate quality with methodological limitations.
- https://www.drugs.com/npp/nettles.html – This resource compiles safety profiles and typical dosages for nettle, establishing it as a generally well-tolerated herbal remedy for inflammation and urinary symptoms related to benign prostate enlargement.
Supplements Containing Standardized Nettles Extract
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