Nettle (unspecified)
Other names for Nettle (unspecified)
california nettle
equivalent to nettle
fresh nettle
fresh nettles
mamaki
nettle
nettle extract
nettle, freeze-dried
nettle, freeze-dried, fresh
nettle leaf extract
nettle leaf extract pdr
nettle leaf extract, powder
nettle leaf pdr
nettle, powder
nettle root extract
nettles
nettles extract
nettles powdered extract
organic nettle
raw nettles powder
standardized nettle extract
Synopsis of Nettle (unspecified)
History
Nettle, commonly referred to as stinging nettle (Urtica dioica), has a rich history in traditional medicine spanning centuries and cultures. Renowned for its potent nutritional profile, nettle leaves and roots have been utilized in remedies dating back to ancient Greece, Rome, and throughout Europe and Asia. Traditionally, nettle was employed as a tonic to strengthen and revitalize the body, addressing fatigue and general debility. Its anti-inflammatory properties made it a staple for treating joint pain, arthritis, and muscle aches, with topical applications and teas both widely used. The plant was also a favored remedy for seasonal allergies and respiratory complaints, owing to its natural antihistamine effects.
Historically, nettle has been prepared in a variety of forms—infusions, decoctions, tinctures, and poultices. Folk medicine practitioners recommended nettle tea for urinary tract health, supporting kidney function, and promoting detoxification. The iron and mineral-rich leaves made it valuable in addressing anemia and promoting blood health. Furthermore, nettle was believed to enrich the hair and skin, and was incorporated into washes and compresses for eczema and other dermal irritations.
Nettle’s benefits are further enhanced when combined with other herbs. It often appears in herbal blends with dandelion, burdock, or red clover to promote cleansing and support healthy skin. In allergy support formulas, nettle is paired with herbs like eyebright and elderflower. Its synergistic effects make it a key component in nourishing, multi-herb tonics that aim to balance the body’s systems. Overall, nettle’s enduring use attests to its remarkable versatility and positive contributions to holistic wellness traditions.
Traditional and scientific validation
Nettle, commonly referring to the stinging nettle (Urtica dioica), has a long history of use in traditional medicine across Europe, Asia, and North America. For centuries, nettle has been valued for its purported abilities to alleviate joint pain, promote urinary tract health, and support general well-being. Historical records describe its use as a nutrient-dense green due to high levels of vitamins A, C, K, and minerals like iron and magnesium.
Modern scientific investigations have begun to explore these traditional claims. Some clinical studies have suggested that nettle extracts may help reduce symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in men, supporting urinary flow and comfort. Additionally, research indicates that nettle may exert anti-inflammatory effects, which could benefit individuals with conditions like arthritis. For example, a few small trials have reported that topical or oral nettle preparations might reduce pain and stiffness in osteoarthritis patients. Nettle also contains antioxidant compounds, which contribute to its potential to support overall health by combating oxidative stress.
Despite these promising findings, the clinical evidence for nettle's benefits is limited and often based on small-scale or preliminary studies. More rigorous research is needed to confirm its efficacy and safety for various conditions. Nevertheless, nettle remains a popular ingredient in nutritional products, appreciated for its rich nutrient profile and historical legacy as a natural remedy. Its continued investigation may yet reveal further health-supporting properties, making it a valuable botanical in the field of nutrition.
Nettle (unspecified) is used for these health conditions
Arthritis (Traditional)
Benign Prostate Hyperplasia (Scientific)
Bladder Infection (Traditional)
Cancer (natural therapy for) (Traditional)
Circulation (poor) (Traditional)
Colds (general) (Traditional)
Cough (general) (Traditional)
Diabetes (Scientific)
Edema (Traditional)
Energy (lack of) (Traditional)
Fatigue (Traditional)
Gout (Traditional)
Hair (loss or thinning) (Traditional)
Hemorrhoids (Traditional)
Hypertension (Traditional)
Inflammation (Scientific)
Kidney Stones (Traditional)
Liver Detoxification (Traditional)
Menopause (Traditional)
Pain (general remedies for) (Scientific)
Prostatitis (Scientific)
Psoriasis (Traditional)
Rheumatoid Arthritis (Traditional)
Urinary Tract Infections (Traditional)
Wounds and Sores (Traditional)
Nettle (unspecified) is used to support these body systems
Bladder (Traditional)
Blood (Traditional)
Digestive System (Traditional)
Gastrointestinal Tract (Traditional)
Hair (Traditional)
Immune System (Traditional)
Joints (Scientific)
Kidneys (Traditional)
Liver (Traditional)
Lungs (Traditional)
Male Reproductive System (Scientific)
Prostate (Scientific)
Respiratory System (Traditional)
Skin (Traditional)
Urinary System (Traditional)