Nettle extract may have a therapeutic effect in treatment of bladder and kidney health issues, prostate enlargement, allergy problems, congestion of the chest and muscle spasms, Drugs.com indicates. As with most herbal medicines, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has not approved it for any medicinal uses and no thorough medical clinical trials have shown its effectiveness. If you take nettle extract for any reason, you run the risk of some common and non-serious side effects occurring.
Diarrhea
Diarrhea may develop as a common side effect with nettle use, especially upon starting treatment. Your body has not dealt with nettle in your system previously, so it may react by producing a disruption of your normal bowel functions. You may experience several bowel movements during the day, evening and night. These bowel movements may produce watery and loose stools. Over-the-counter medicines for stopping diarrhea may help, but if your diarrhea continues, seek advice from your physician. In most circumstances, as your body adjusts to nettle, the diarrhea will cease.
Nausea
You may experience uneasiness in your stomach and you may vomit when you initiate use of nettle extract. The body often needs time to grow accustomed to new herbal extract. Your stomach may react because of sensitivity to this new herbal extract. If this side effect continues, call your doctor. A doctor will know how to help you.
Menstrual Difficulties
As a woman, you may experience menstrual difficulties when first taking this herbal extract. Drugs.com notes that nettle extract may alter your normal menstrual cycles. Report this to your doctor as it could indicate another health issue.
Decreased Urine Output
Decreased urine output may occur when you use this herbal nettle extract. If you become uncomfortable and do not feel well, call your doctor. A decrease in the amount of urine you excrete may indicate a health problem. Decreased urine output could indicate, for example, early kidney disease or an infection.
Skin Irritation
Skin irritation may occur at the site where you apply this topical herbal extract. If skin irritation occurs and continues or feels severe, you will need to stop using nettle and call your doctor for aid. Your doctor will need to prescribe another form of treatment to help you with the ailment you are attempting to treat.
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