Nettle
Updated Oct. 13th, 2017
Stinging nettle is a commonly seen plant in North America. Several parts of the plant have been studied for their medicinal benefit. Nettle leaf has been used to decrease allergy symptoms like runny nose, watery eyes and congestion. It does this by stabilizing cells that release histamine, called mast cells.
Histamine is responsible for inducing the allergic response by signaling inflammatory cells to go to the mucus membranes. Nettle leaf is also used to increase the excretion of uric acid in the kidney and increase its transportation out of tissues.
This will help gout sufferers because it is the crystallization of uric acid in the joints that leads to gouty arthritis. Nettle root is used for prostate disorders like BPH. Components in nettle bind to hormone receptors in the prostate thus preventing the stimulation of the gland, which ultimately prevents the prostate’s enlargement.
Nettle can be used as a dried herb, encapsulated herb, tincture or tea. Make sure that you get the appropriate supplement for your needs. The leaf is used for allergies (especially freeze dried leaf) and gout. The root is used for prostate disorders.
Pregnant women should not use nettle because it theoretically may cause uterine stimulation. However some health professionals do recommend moderate usage for nettle’s nutrient qualities. Individuals with kidney disease, gout or a history of uric acid stones should use nettle only under professional supervision due to the silica content and uric acid excretion. There are possible interactions between nettle and warfarin due to nettle’s vitamin K content.
Nettles were the missing piece during a period where I Had an extreme reaction in my body. I was working with a naturopath and this was only 1 part of my protocol but it made such a huge difference. When ever I have an episode of eczema itching I can take these and they really help. Of course it's not the root but it can help a lot. Also for seasonal allergies it helped my husband and his sister who were both skeptics in 2019! :) I also realized in my research that they have a lot of beneficial vitamins and minerals.
Hello Shawn,
We're glad you were able to learn more about nettle with our article and that this supplement has helped you boost vitality and well-being. If you'd like to learn more about natural supplements and skin or allergy health, check out our other articles.
https://www.nationalnutrition.ca/articles/health-concerns/skin-health/
https://www.nationalnutrition.ca/articles/health-concerns/allergies-environmental/
Stay well.