Evidence supporting the use of: Nettle (unspecified)
For the health condition: Rheumatoid Arthritis

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Nettle (most often referring to Urtica dioica, or stinging nettle) has a long history of traditional use in supporting or treating symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and other joint-related ailments. In European folk medicine, nettle leaves were sometimes applied topically (a practice called urtication) to sore joints in order to induce local irritation and, purportedly, to relieve pain. Nettle tea and extracts have also been consumed to reduce inflammation. The traditional rationale is based on nettle’s anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which are attributed to compounds such as flavonoids, phenolic acids, and lectins.

From a scientific standpoint, there is limited but growing evidence that nettle may have some benefit in inflammatory conditions. Small clinical trials and in vitro studies suggest nettle extracts can inhibit pro-inflammatory cytokines (e.g., TNF-α, IL-1β) and may reduce joint pain when used as an adjunct to conventional therapy. However, the quality of evidence is low, with studies generally being small, short-term, and sometimes lacking rigorous controls. No major clinical guidelines recommend nettle as a primary treatment for RA. Thus, while nettle’s use is rooted in tradition, preliminary scientific studies offer only modest support, and more robust research is needed to confirm efficacy and safety in RA management.

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