Stinging nettle is a commonly seen plant in North America. Several parts of the plant have been studied for their medicinal benefit. A nettle leaf supplement has been known to decrease allergy symptoms like runny nose, watery eyes and congestion. It does this by stabilizing cells that release histamine, called mast cells.
Exploring The Health Advantages of Nettle
Histamine is responsible for inducing the allergic response by signalling 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 thuspreventing the stimulation of the gland, which ultimately may prevent the prostate’s enlargement.
Shopping For A Quality Nettle Supplement
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.
Key Considerations & Cautions
Pregnant women should not use nettle because it theoretically may cause uterine stimulation. However, some health professionals do recommend moderate usage for the 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.
