Get Your Personalized Supplement StackSupplement Stack Quiz

Urtica Dioica Extract

Q: Is Urtica dioica effective for prostate health?

Yes, evidence supports modest but significant improvement in lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

Q: Can it help with blood sugar control?

Yes, it appears to reduce fasting blood glucose and improve insulin resistance in individuals with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.

Q: Is it safe for long-term use?

Limited long-term safety data exist; short-term use up to 6 months is generally considered safe with a low incidence of side effects.

Q: Are there drug interactions?

Potential interactions exist with blood thinners and blood pressure medications, warranting caution and professional consultation.

Also known as: Stinging nettle, Nettle, Urtica dioica L., Urtica dioica

Overview

Urtica dioica extract, commonly known as stinging nettle, is a perennial herb native to Europe, Asia, and North America. Extracts are typically derived from the root or aerial parts of the plant and are rich in bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, phenolic acids, and lectins. Traditionally, it has been used for conditions like benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), musculoskeletal disorders, and metabolic syndrome, including type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Research on Urtica dioica is moderately mature, with several randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses supporting its use, particularly for BPH and glycemic control. It is available as a herbal supplement and botanical extract.

Benefits

Urtica dioica extract offers several evidence-based benefits. For Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), a meta-analysis of 5 RCTs involving 1128 patients demonstrated a significant improvement in lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), as measured by the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), with a standardized mean difference (SMD) of -10.47 (95% CI -18.12 to -2.82, p=0.007). This indicates a clinically meaningful reduction in symptoms, supported by moderate-quality evidence. For Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM), a meta-analysis of 8 RCTs (n=401) found that supplementation significantly reduced fasting blood sugar (FBS) by a weighted mean difference of -14.5 mg/dL (95% CI -25.3 to -3.7, p<0.05) and improved insulin resistance markers, suggesting a beneficial effect on glycemic control with moderate to high-quality evidence. However, for musculoskeletal disorders, a systematic review and meta-analysis showed mixed results; while some studies indicated large effects on pain reduction, the overall pooled estimate did not show a significant benefit (p=0.57) due to high heterogeneity, indicating inconsistent evidence.

How it works

Urtica dioica extract exerts its effects through multiple biological pathways. It possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce oxidative stress in the body. In the context of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), it is believed to modulate androgen receptors and inhibit 5-alpha reductase, thereby reducing prostate growth. For glycemic control, the extract enhances insulin secretion and promotes pancreatic β-cell proliferation in the islets. In musculoskeletal conditions, it may inhibit pro-inflammatory cytokines. These diverse mechanisms are attributed to its rich composition of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids and lectins. The specific effects can vary depending on the plant part used, with root extracts commonly employed for BPH and aerial parts for metabolic benefits.

Side effects

Urtica dioica extract is generally considered safe, with a low incidence of adverse effects reported in clinical trials. The most common side effects are mild gastrointestinal discomfort, such as stomach upset or diarrhea, and occasional allergic reactions, particularly in individuals sensitive to nettle or related plants. While no serious drug interactions have been consistently reported, caution is advised when combining Urtica dioica with certain medications. It may have additive effects with anticoagulants (blood thinners), potentially increasing the risk of bleeding, and with antihypertensive drugs, which could lead to an excessive drop in blood pressure. Therefore, individuals on such medications should consult a healthcare professional before use. Contraindications include a known allergy to nettle. Safety data for long-term use, especially beyond six months, are limited, and further research is needed to fully assess its long-term safety profile.

Dosage

Recommended dosages for Urtica dioica extract vary depending on the specific condition and the standardization of the extract. For Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), studies typically use root extract doses ranging from 300 to 600 mg per day. For Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM), supplementation doses commonly involve aerial part extract, often around 500 mg taken twice daily. Optimal dosing is highly dependent on the extract's active constituent standardization and the intended therapeutic purpose. Oral administration with meals is generally recommended to minimize potential gastrointestinal side effects. While no specific cofactors are required for absorption, taking it with food may enhance its bioavailability. It is important to note that formulations vary widely, and users should follow product-specific instructions or consult a healthcare professional for personalized dosing advice.

FAQs

Is Urtica dioica effective for prostate health?

Yes, evidence supports modest but significant improvement in lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

Can it help with blood sugar control?

Yes, it appears to reduce fasting blood glucose and improve insulin resistance in individuals with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.

Is it safe for long-term use?

Limited long-term safety data exist; short-term use up to 6 months is generally considered safe with a low incidence of side effects.

Are there drug interactions?

Potential interactions exist with blood thinners and blood pressure medications, warranting caution and professional consultation.

Research Sources

https://www.bioline.org.br/pdf?tc16040 – This meta-analysis evaluated the efficacy of Urtica dioica root extract for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). It found a significant improvement in lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) based on the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) across five randomized controlled trials, suggesting a clinically meaningful benefit for BPH patients.
https://journals.iium.edu.my/ijahs/index.php/IJAHS/article/download/755/704/4132 – This systematic review and meta-analysis investigated the effects of Urtica dioica on musculoskeletal disorders. It reported mixed results, with some studies showing large effects on pain reduction, but the overall pooled estimate did not demonstrate a significant benefit due to high heterogeneity among the included studies.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31802554/ – This meta-analysis of eight randomized controlled trials assessed the impact of Urtica dioica supplementation on glycemic control in patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. It concluded that Urtica dioica significantly reduced fasting blood sugar and improved markers of insulin resistance, indicating its potential as an adjunct therapy for diabetes management.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9282742/ – This narrative review explores the potential of Urtica dioica in managing metabolic syndrome. It provides mechanistic insights, suggesting that the plant may improve insulin secretion and promote pancreatic β-cell proliferation, thereby contributing to its anti-diabetic effects and broader metabolic benefits.