Stinging nettle is a plat native to colder regions of Europe and North America, and cultivated all around the world. Two species, Urtica doica and Urtica urens, have been used as medicinal herbs for hundreds of years especially for muscle and joint pains, eczema and anemia, according to the University of Maryland, Medical Center. Current research supports nettle supplements for urinary tract inflammation, kidney problems, enlarged prostate and possibly osteoarthritis. If you suffer from any of these conditions and consider taking nettle supplements, you should first talk to your health care provider.
Urinary Tract & Kidneys
Nettle acts as a diuretic, which means it helps eliminate excess water from the body by increasing urination. It has also been researched for treating medical conditions affecting the urinary tract. According to Drugs.com, nettle is supported by The German Commission E Monograph in the management of the inflammation of the urinary tract and in the prevention and treatment of kidney stones.
Prostate Health
Nettle's roots are well researched and commonly used in Europe for enlarged prostate. This herb appears to improve symptoms like urge to urinate and incomplete emptying of the bladder, especially when combined with saw palmetto, the University of Maryland Medical Center suggests. Some scientists suggest that this effect may be due to nettle's influence on sex hormones.
Nettle may also inhibit prostate cancer cells, according to a study reported in the February 2000 issue of " Planta Medica." The researchers noted a 30 percent reduction of the prostate cells, compared to control group.
Arthritis
The leaf extracts from nettle are used for relieving arthritic symptoms. Some research studies indicate that nettle may relieve pain when applied topically on the affected join. In tablet form, nettle extracts may reduce the need for conventional anti-inflammatory drugs in individuals diagnosed with osteoarthritis, the University of Maryland Medical Center says. However, further research is needed to fully confirm nettle's benefits for arthritis sufferers.
Considerations
Nettle may interact with some conventional drugs like blood thinners, anti-inflammatory drugs and medication used for high blood pressure and diabetes. Nettle extracts may cause allergic reactions in susceptible individuals. Nettle is not considered safe during pregnancy, as it may contribute to miscarriages, the University of Maryland Medical Center warns. Consult a qualified health care provider to find out optimal dosage of nettle for your condition. Nettle is not approved by the U. S Food and Drug Administration to treat any disease, and this supplement does not replace any conventional medication you are taking.
