Nettle.Stinging nettle,Nettle leaf,Nettle root,Common Stinging Nettle?Therapeutics and Pharmacology,Historical or traditional use of Nettle.

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Mechanism and General Use of Nettle.

Nettle Extract INCI Name Urtica Dioica Extract EINECS ELINCS No 281-685-5 CAS 84012-40-8 Urticae radix Extracts Nettle Root Extract photo picture image Mechanism of Nettle:

 Although the growing nettle stings externally, it has no such effect when it has been subjected to heat, either in cooking or when made into an infusion. Ironically, it is used in skin complaints as an antiallergenic, and can be used to treat eczema and related allergies when taken internally. Nettle is also antihemorrhagic, and can be used as an astringent to stop excessive bleeding, either from wounds, or in the reproductive system to diminish heavy bleeding. The iron and vitamin C content make it an excellent tonic for anemia and lack of iron. It was used, along with the other first herbs of spring, as a spring tonic. The root has been used to treat enlarged prostate.

 Homeopathy:

 Stinging nettles have been used medicinally throughout history. The 16th-century herbalist John Gerard used the plant as an antidote to poisoning and curiously, the juice of the nettle provides an excellent antidote for its own sting. This common weed is used in herbalism, to treat hemorrhoids, stomach problems, diabetes, and nosebleeds. Hives (urticaria), which looks very similar to nettle rash, is treated with the homeopathic remedy.

 This remedy, taken either internally or applied as an ointment externally, is mainly used for skin problems, especially if the skin is burning and stinging due to an allergic reaction. Urtica is an excellent remedy for skin rashes, for example, hives (urticaria) caused in particular by insect stings, and by eating shellfish, such as shrimp. Burns, where the skin is hot and blistered, and eczema, especially when the skin is itchy or blotchy, are both helped by this remedy. Skin eruptions that are suppressed by steroid ointments, for example, can lead to diarrhea, which is eased by this remedy.

 Urtica is also an effective remedy for rheumatism and is given for acute gout, neuritis (nerve inflammation), and neuralgia.
 In women, Urtica is a remedy for vulval itching and scanty breast milk in lactating mothers.
 It is also good for burning urine that causes itching and may be associated with cystitis.
 Nettle Extract INCI Name Urtica Dioica Extract EINECS ELINCS No 281-685-5 CAS 84012-40-8 Urticae radix Extracts Nettle Root Extract photo picture image

 Part Uses of Nettle:

 Stinging Nettle is often used to reduce inflammation in allergic resposes, arthritis and lupus.

 Being very high in iron,chlorophyl and vitamin C, it is also a good tonic for treating anemia, especially if used as an infusion over many weeks.

 Nettle is very nourishing to the whole system, specifically the adrenals and kidneys. It's also a helpful uterine tonic. The high clorophyll and mineral content are good for the hormonal system.

 The roots are used for treating hay fever. In low doses, the root extract stimulates the production of T cells, which help control the immune cells causing the allergic reaction.
 An infusion of the leaf is said to be a nourishing tonic during pregnancy and lactation.
 Stinging Nettle grows abundantly in the spring and can be harvested and dried by hanging in a dark, dry place.
 Use caution when harvesting Stinging Nettle, as the tiny hairs on the stem and leaves can cause a "stinging" sensation that lasts for hours.
 Dried leaf is available loose and in teas.
 Tinctures and freeze-dried capsules are also available.

 General Uses of Nettle:

 Stinging nettle has been used for hundreds of years to treat rheumatism (disorders of the muscles and joints), eczema, arthritis, gout, and anemia. Today, many people use it to treat urinary problems during the early stages of an enlarged prostate (called benign prostatic hyperplasia or BPH), for urinary tract infections, for kidney stones, for hay fever (allergic rhinitis), or in compresses or creams for treating joint pain, sprains and strains, tendonitis, and insect bites. In fact, some small but well designed studies are beginning to confirm that certain traditional uses have scientific validity, particularly osteoarthritis especially when used in conjunction with anti-inflammatory medications (see Possible Interactions), and BPH. Plus, recent laboratory studies are offering plausible explanations for why stinging nettles might help rheumatoid arthritis as well as several of the conditions already mentioned.

 Decongestants, antihistamines, allergy shots and even prescription medications such as Allegra and Claritin treat only the symptoms of allergies and tend to lose effectiveness over a period of time. They can also cause drowsiness, dry sinuses, insomnia and high blood pressure. Nettle has none of these side effects. It can be used on a regular basis and has an impressive number of other benefits most notably as a treatment for prostate enlargement.

 Nettle has been studied extensively and has shown promise in treating Alzheimer's disease, arthritis, asthma, bladder infections, bronchitis, bursitis, gingivitis, gout, hives, kidney stones, laryngitis, multiple sclerosis, PMS, prostate enlargement, sciatica, and tendinitis! Externally it has been used to improve the appearance of the hair, and is said to be a remedy against oily hair and dandruff.

 Anti-inflammatory effect,enhance immune system:

Nettle aerial parts have also been used historically to treat muscle pain and arthritis. Taken orally, products made from nettle aerial parts may interfere with the body production of inflammation-causing chemicals specifically tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-a). Consequently, the aerial parts of nettle may have an anti-inflammatory effect. They may also enhance responses of the immune system. Chemicals in nettle aerial parts are also thought to reduce the feeling of pain or interfere with the way that nerves send pain signals. All of these effects may reduce the pain and stiffness of arthritis and similar conditions. They may also have some value for relieving other inflammatoty conditions such as colitis.

 Taken orally, products made from nettle's aerial parts may interfere with the body's production of prostaglandins and other inflammation-causing chemicals. Consequently, nettle may have an anti-inflammatory effect. It may also enhance responses of the immune system. Chemicals in nettle's aerial parts are also thought to reduce the feeling of pain or interfere with the way that nerves send pain signals. All of these effects may reduce the pain and stiffness of arthritis and other similar conditions.

 Astringent:Nettle slows or stops bleeding from wounds and nosebleeds, and is good for heavy menstrual bleeding.

 Allergies:Nettle is antiallergenic. Nettle treats hay fever, asthma, itchy skin conditions, and insect bites. The juice can be used to treat nettle stings.

 Allergic rhinitis: In a double-blind placebo-controlled randomized study of 98 patients with allergic rhinits the effect of a freeze-dried preparation of Urtica dioica was compared against placebo.Based on daily symptom diaries and the global response recorded at the follow-up visit after one week of therapy,Urtica dioica was rated higher than placebo in relieving symptoms (Mittman 1990).

 Additional uses:The leaves help anemia and improve breast-milk production. The root is now used to treat enlarged prostate.

 Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH):

 Reports claim that as many as 80% of European men with BPH are given the option of herbal remedies for their symptoms, including saw palmetto and stinging nettle roots, rather than medication or surgery. Studies in people suggest that the root of the stinging nettle, in combination with other herbs especially saw palmetto, may be an effective treatment for BPH, relieving urinary symptoms such as reduced urinary flow, incomplete emptying of the bladder, post urination dripping, and the constant urge to urinate. These symptoms are due to the enlarged prostate gland pressing on the urethra (the tube that empties urine from the bladder). Laboratory studies have shown stinging nettle to be comparable to finasteride (a medication commonly prescribed for BPH) in slowing the growth of certain prostate cells. However, unlike finasteride, the herb does not decrease prostate size.

 In 1984 a large observational trial in Germany conducted on 4051 patients with BPH,Nettle root extract was shown to improve symptoms such as nocturia(Mills and Bone 2000,494).More recently Nettle root has undergone a series of double blind,placebo-controlled clinical trials.In two clinical trials conducted in 2000 and 1997,a subgroup of 431 patients and another group of 543 patients with early stage BPH were analyzed in a randomied,multicentre,double-blind clinical trial.Patients received a fixed combination of extracts of Saw Palmetto fruit(serenoa repens) and Nettle root (Urtica dioica),the synthetic 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor finasteride,or placebo.The herbal extract was shown to exhibit an activity similar to finasteride,but with significantly less adverse reactions,including significant fewer cases of diminished ejaculation volume,erectile dysfunction and headache(Sokeland 2000;Sokeland and Albrecht 1997).In another double-blind placebo-controlled trial of 40 BPH patients 1200 mg of a 5:1 Nettle root extract given on a daily basis was shown to decrease urinary frequency and serum levels of SHBG(Mills and Bone 2000,494).In a clinical trial in Poland 134 patients with symptoms of BPH were randomly assigned to receive two capsules of the standard dose of an Urtica and Pygeum preparation(300 mgs of Urtica dioica root extract combined with 25 mg of Pygeum africanum bark extract), or two capsules containing half the standard dose,twice daily for 8 weeks.After 28 days of treatment,urine flow,residual urine, and nycturia were significantly reduced in both treatment groups.After 56 days of treatment,further significantly reduced in both treatment groups.After 56 days of treatment,further significant decreases were found in residual urine(half-dose group) and in nocturia (both groups)(Krzeski et al 1993).

 In Germany today stinging nettle is sold as an herbal drug for prostate diseases and as a diuretic. It is a common ingredient in other herbal drugs produced in Germany for rheumatic complaints and inflammatory conditions (especially for the lower urinary tract and prostate). In the United States many remarkable healing properties are attributed to nettle and the leaf is utilized for different problems than the root. The leaf is used here as a diuretic, for arthritis, prostatitis, rheumatism, rheumatoid arthritis, high blood pressure and allergic rhinitis.

 The root is recommended as a diuretic, for relief of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and other prostate problems, and as a natural remedy to treat or prevent baldness

 Cleansing,detoxifier:Nettle's key use is as a cleansing, detoxifying herb. Nettle has a diuretic action, possibly due to its flavonoids and high potassium content, and increases urine production and the elimination of waste products. Nettle helps many skin conditions for example, childhood eczema and arthritic problems, especially when poor kidney function and fluid retention are features.

 Cleansing the blood.Skin complaints including eczema:Nettle leaf is used in a simple infusion as a tonic decoction to cleanse the blood. Nettle can also be combined with yellow dock (Rumex crispis), dandelion (Taraxacum officinale), cleavers (Galium aparine), and burdock root (Arctium lappa). In folk medicine, the plant was used in a practice known as urtication. The fresh herb was thrashed across the skin to induce a stinging, burning sensation used to relieve the deeper pain of rheumatism. A leaf infusion, or a homeopathic tincture of nettle, may also be helpful as supportive therapy for rheumatism. With sufficient water intake, nettle acts as a diuretic and is helpful in treating arthritis and rheumatism.

 Excessive menstruation( Menorrhagia ):Women suffering from the condition known as menorrhagia are usually treated by the use of birth control pills in conventional medication. The failure to control the excessive monthly bleeding by use of contraceptive pills when it occurs is replaced with another so called "cure". The woman may sometimes be offered the unhappy choice of undergoing a hysterectomy in such cases this being the second "cure" of conventional medication.

 The correction of menorrhagia depends to a great deal on the intake of a healthy and appropriate diet.1 part dong quai powder,2 parts burdock root powder,1 part astragalus powder,4 parts dandelion root (raw) powder,1 part yellow dock root powder,2 parts spirulina powder.Mix the herb powders together and capsulate in "00" size capsules. Take two capsules three times daily during the month. Discontinue taking the capsules when you start to bleed and begin them again at the completion of your menstrual flow.

 Mild diuretic effect:The "above-ground" or aerial parts (flowers, leaves, and stems) of nettle may be a mild diuretic, which means it may promote the loss of water from the body. Such a diuretic effect may explain why the aerial parts of nettle were formerly used extensively to treat urinary tract conditions such as bladder infections. In Europe, they are still taken along with large quantities of water in a treatment called "irrigation therapy" to force fluids through the urinary system. Diuretics are also used to relieve high blood pressure. Recent studies of both humans and laboratory animals confirm that nettle's aerial parts may increase the production of urine. More effective diuretics are now available, but the aerial parts of nettle are still used to relieve conditions such as premenstrual swelling. They are approved in combination with drinking large amounts of water for treating urinary tract inflammation and for treating and preventing kidney stones by Commission E of the German Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices, the German governmental agency that evaluates the safety and effectiveness of herbal products. The United States does not have a comparable agency to evaluate herbal products.

 Inflammatory joint disease:

 In a group of eighteen patients with joint paint treated with the topical use of Nettle sting all except were sure that the therapy had been very helpful and several considered themselves cured.No observed side effects were reported,except a transient urticarial rash(Randall et al 1999).An extract of Urtica dioica leaf was investigated with respect to effects of the extract on the lipopolysaccharides (LPS) stimulated secretion of proinflammatory cytokines in human whole blood of healthy volunteers.The resultant rise in tumor necrosis factor-alpha(TNF-alpha) and interleukin-1 beta(IL-1beta) secretion after LPS administration was significantly reduced by the Urtica extract in a dose dependent manner.Isolated constituents including phenol carbon acid derivatives and flavonodes such as caffeic malic acid,caffeic acid,chlorogenic acid,quercetin and rutin did not influence LPS stimulated TNF-alfa,IL-1 beta and IL-6 secretion in tested concentrations (Obertreis et al 1996).In an open multicenter clinical trial of 219 patients with arthritis Nettle leaf was compared against NSAID therapy,demonstrating a similar reduction in pain and immobility,with excellent tolerability.In an open randomized trial of 37 patients with acute arthritis,50 gram of stewed Nettle leaf consumed on a daily combined with 50 mg of diclofenac was shown to be as effective as the full 200 mg dose of diclofenac in the treatment of symptoms, over a 2 week period (Mills and Bone 2000,495)

 Reduce allergy symptoms:In addition, nettle's aerial parts may reduce the amount of histamine that is produced by the body in response to an allergen. An allergen is a substance such as pollen that may provoke an exaggerated immune response in individuals who are sensitive to it. Through this potential action, the aerial parts of nettle may help to reduce allergy symptoms. Results from one human study are promising, but more research is need before nettle's aerial parts can be recommended for allergy relief.

 Nettle has been used for centuries to treat allergy symptoms, particularly hayfever which is the most common allergy problem. It contains biologically active compounds that reduce inflammation. Dr. Andrew Wiel M.D. author of Natural Health/ Natural Medicine says he knows of nothing more effective than nettle for allergy relief. And his statement is backed up by studies at the National College of Naturopathic Medicine in Portland, Oregon.

 Regulate blood sugar, blood pressure, and blood cholesterol levels:Very early study results may show that the aerial parts of nettle have positive effects on blood sugar, blood pressure, and blood cholesterol levels.The aerial parts of nettle plants were thought to raise blood sugar levels slightly. However, in recent studies of laboratory cultures and animals, an extract of nettle leaves has shown the opposite effect. In at least two separate studies that have been reported in recent scientific literature, researchers noted that animals treated with nettle leaf extract produced increased amounts of insulin, thereby reducing blood sugar. In one of the studies, decreased blood sugar occurred in animals with both high and normal blood sugar levels. Some of the animal studies also showed a decrease in blood pressure from nettle aerial parts, but the effect was slight and inconsistent. Other animal studies have found a cholesterol-reducing effect from nettle leaf extracts. Much more research is needed to prove or disprove these possible effects.

 Relieve joint pain and muscle aches:Either the fresh juice or a solution made from dried aerial parts of nettle may be applied to the skin to relieve joint pain and muscle aches. Astringent properties of nettle aerial parts may also help to relieve the pain of mouth sores, treat acne, lessen the swelling of hemorrhoids, and stop bleeding from minor skin injuries such as razor nicks. An astringent shrinks and tightens the top layers of skin or mucous membranes, thereby reducing secretions, relieving irritation, and improving tissue firmness. Nettle's aerial parts may also be used topically for dandruff and overly oily hair and scalp.

 Reduce histamine and against allergen:In addition, nettle's aerial parts may reduce the amount of histamine that is produced by the body in response to an allergen. An allergen is a substance such as pollen that may provoke an exaggerated immune response in individuals who are sensitive to it. Through this potential action, the aerial parts of nettle may help to reduce allergy symptoms. Results from one human study are promising, but more research is needed to be conclusive.

 Skin disease treatment:A solution of the extract may be applied to the skin to relieve joint pain and muscle aches. Astringent properties of nettle aerial parts may also help to lessen the swelling of hemorrhoids and stop bleeding from minor skin injuries such as razor nicks. An astringent shrinks and tightens the top layers of skin or mucous membranes, thereby reducing secretions, relieving irritation, and improving tissue firmness. It may also be used topically for dandruff and overly oily hair and scalp.

 Stemming internal bleeding:An infusion of the plant is very valuable in stemming internal bleeding. It is also used to treat anaemia, excessive menstruation, haemorrhoids, arthritis, rheumatism and skin complaints, especially eczema. Externally, the plant is used to treat skin complaints, arthritic pain, gout, sciatica, neuralgia, haemorrhoids and hair problems.

 Urinary tract problems:Nettle is particularly helpful for treating urinary tract problems. An infusion of the leaves may be used for inflammatory diseases of the lower urinary tract. The infusion is thought to flush the system and to help expel kidney gravel. It has also been used internally to stop bleeding. An ointment preparation of the aerial parts, or a strong infusion, can be applied externally to relieve hemorrhoids. Nettle can increase and enrich the flow of milk in breast-feeding mothers.

 Other Functions:

 Relieve pain,anti-viral properties: In animal studies, nettle has been shown to relieve pain, have mild anti-inflammatory effects, and to lower blood sugar levels. Active compounds in stinging nettle may act as an expectorant (meaning that it can loosen and break up a cough) and have anti-viral properties.

 Nettle may also be effective for treating certain individuals with allergic rhinitis (hay fever). This traditional use has had a lot of historical value for individuals. Early studies of people suggest that this historic use is likely scientifically valid. However, while the studies thus far have been favorable, they have not been overwhelmingly so. More research would be helpful. In the meantime, talk to your doctor about whether it is safe for you to try nettle as a possible alternative treatment during allergy season if you are prone to hay fever.

 Although not prescribed by the British Pharmacopceia, the Nettle has still a reputation in herbal medicine, and is regarded in homoeopathy as a useful remedy. Preparations of the herb have astringent properties and act also as a stimulating tonic.

 Nettle is anti-asthmatic: the juice of the roots or leaves, mixed with honey or sugar, will relieve bronchial and asthmatic troubles and the dried leaves, burnt and inhaled, will have the same effect. The seeds have also been used in consumption, the infusion of herb or seeds being taken in wineglassful doses. The seeds and flowers used to be given in wine as a remedy for ague. The powdered seeds have been considered a cure for goitre and efficacious in reducing excessive corpulency.

 In old Herbals the seeds, taken inwardly, were recommended for the stings or bites of venomous creatures and mad dogs, and as an antidote to poisoning by Hemlock, Henbane and Nightshade.

 A quaint old superstition existed that a fever could be dispelled by plucking a Nettle up by the roots, reciting thereby the names of the sick man and also the names of his parents.

 Preparations of Nettle are said to act well upon the kidneys, but it is a doubtful diuretic, though it has been claimed that incipient dropsy may be remedied by tea made from the roots.

 A novel treatment for diabetes was reported by a sufferer from that disease in the daily press of April, 1926, it being affirmed that a diet of young Nettles (following a two days' fast) and drinking the brew of them had been the means of reducing his weight by 6 stone in three days and had vastly improved his condition.

 An efficient Hair Tonic can be prepared from the Nettle: Simmer a handful of young Nettles in a quart of water for 2 hours, strain and bottle when cold. Well saturate the scalp with the lotion every other night. This prevents the hair falling and renders it soft and glossy. A good Nettle Hair Lotion is also prepared by boiling the entire plant in vinegar and water, straining and adding Eau de Cologne.

 For stimulating hair growth, the old herbalists recommended combing the hair daily with expressed Nettle juice.
 The homoeopathic tincture of Nettle is made of 2 OZ. of the herb to 1 pint of proof spirit.
 The powder of the dried herb is administered in doses of 5 to 10 grains.
 Nettle Extract INCI Name Urtica Dioica Extract EINECS ELINCS No 281-685-5 CAS 84012-40-8 Urticae radix Extracts Nettle Root Extract photo picture image

 Summary:

 Nettle is easily distinguished by its straight, rigid stems that may be reddish in color and may be as much as 3 feet tall in temperate climates. Its pointed, notched leaves grow in ladder-like arrangements and fuzzy strings of very small yellow or pink flowers grow on separate stems close to the main stalk. Leaves and stems of the mature plants are covered with short, stiff hairs that secrete irritating chemicals when the plants are mature -- hence the name "stinging" nettle. Nettle's young leaf tips may be collected safely early in the spring, however, before the irritating bristles develop. They may be cooked as a vegetable or added to salads as a good source of beta carotene, calcium, potassium, and vitamins C and K. For use in medicine, the entire top part of the plant is cut and dried just after the flowers bloom. Drying the plants eliminates most of the irritating chemicals.

 Due to astringent effects that may reduce skin oils and tighten skin tone, nettle aerial parts are sometimes included in hair and skin products. Nettle aerial parts have been taken orally to harden fingernails because they contain calcium, magnesium, potassium, and silica minerals which may possibly help to strengthen fingernails.

 Tradition indicates that nettle was carried into Europe and Great Britain by Roman soldiers who planted it along the roads they were building. Reportedly, they used the leaves as a remedy for the aches they suffered after long marches. In addition, the nettle stem supplies long fibers that are similar to flax, the fiber used to make linen cloth. Nettle fibers can be made into fabrics, paper, or rope. Used extensively for fibers in Scandinavia and northern Europe from prehistoric times until the late Middle Ages, nettle has regained limited worldwide popularity in the last several years as an easily renewable source of material for fishing nets, sails, and string.

 Nettles are of considerable value as fodder for live-stock, and might be used for this purpose where they occur largely. When Nettles are growing, no quadruped except the ass will touch them, on account of their stinging power, but if cut and allowed to become wilted, they lose their sting and are then readily cleared up by livestock. It is well known that when dried and made into hay, so as to destroy the poisonous matter of the stings, cows will relish them and give more milk than when fed on hay alone. In Sweden and Russia, the Nettle has sometimes been cultivated as a fodder plant, being mown several times a year, and given to milch cattle.

 Nettles were much used as a substitute for fodder during the war, and instructions for their use were laid down by German military authorities. It was found that horses which had become thin and suffered from digestive troubles benefited from the use of Nettle leaves in their rations. When dried, the proportion of albuminoid matter in Nettles is as high as in linseed cake and the fat content is also considerable.

 The Nettle is also of great use to the keeper of poultry. Dried and powdered finely and put into the food, it increases egg-production and is healthy and fattening. The seeds are also said to fatten fowls. Turkeys, as well as ordinary poultry, thrive on Nettles chopped small and mixed with their food, and pigs do well on boiled Nettles.

 In Holland, and also in Egypt, it is said that horse-dealers mix the seeds of Nettles with oats or other food, in order to give the animals a sleek coat.

 Although in Britain upwards of thirty insects feed solely on the Nettle plant, flies have a distaste for the plant, and a fresh bunch of Stinging Nettles will keep a larder free from them.

 If planted in the neighbourhood of beehives, it is said the Nettle will drive away frogs.

 The juice of the Nettle, or a decoction formed by boiling the green herb in a strong solution of salt, will curdle milk, providing the cheese-maker with a good substitute for rennet. The same juice, if rubbed liberally into small seams in leaky wooden tubs coagulates and will render them once more watertight.

 A decoction of Nettle yields a beautiful and permanent green dye, which is used for woollen stuffs in Russia: the roots, boiled with alum, produce a yellow colour, which was formerly widely used in country districts to dye yarn, and is also employed by the Russian peasants to stain eggs yellow on Maundy Thursday.

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Reference:

citations1.Nettle.Stinging nettle,Nettle leaf,Nettle root,Common Stinging Nettle?Therapeutics and Pharmacology,Historical or traditional use of Nettle.

last edit date:22th,May.2009.