Red, itchy eyes, runny nose, sneezing, congestion, and malaise -- these are all familiar symptoms of allergies, also called allergic rhinitis. Rarely life-threatening, allergic rhinitis may cause sleepless nights, headaches, discomfort, difficulty in focusing, lack of productivity, and just generally feeling lousy. Freeze-dried nettle leaf has been used with relative success for allergies, but not nettle root. Nettle root is primarily used for prostate enlargement. When beginning any herbal remedy, do so with supervision from your doctor.
Allergic Rhinitis
Allergic rhinitis occurs when the mucosal linings of the nose, ears, throat and sinuses come into contact with an allergen. These allergens may be plant pollens, dust, mites, smoke or other irritants. Certain cells in the mucosa release the chemical histamine to battle the antigens. This causes swelling of the mucosal lining and the customary symptoms -- sneezing, itching and excess mucous -- that are associated with allergies.
Nettle Leaf and Allergies
A freeze-dried preparation of nettle leaves shows positive effects for reducing the symptoms of allergies, according to a 1990 study in the journal "Planta Med." In a double-blind study, 98 people suffering from seasonal allergies received nettle leaves in freeze-dried form and some received a placebo. Those with the placebo showed little relief, while those taking nettle had better results. A 2006 review in "Alternative Medicine Review" notes nettle is a traditional remedy for allergic rhinitis for sometime. It speculates that nettle's anti-inflammatory properties is related to its histamine content. The mechanism is yet to be determined.
Nettle Root and Prostate Enlargement
The prostate gland is part of the male anatomy that lies beneath the bladder. The urethra carries urine from the bladder, through the prostate gland and through the penis. In benign prostatic hyperplasia, BPH, the prostate swells and pushes against the urethra causing decreased flow of urinary, partial emptying of the bladder, dripping, and the constant feeling of needing to urinate. Although it is yet unknown how nettle root works, it reduces symptoms. Nettle root should be taken under a doctor's supervision and should not replace conventional medical treatment.
Precautions Using Nettle
Small, sharp spines cover the leaves of the nettle. If pricked, they may result in a rash that may last up to 24 hours. Before ingesting, nettle leaves should be blanched or steamed to diminish the effect of the spines. Nettle leaf or root may leach potassium from your system, so it is advisable to supplement with potassium-rich foods, such as potatoes or bananas. Nettle leaves or roots should not be used if you have cardiac or renal problems, or if you are pregnant or nursing. The nettle leaf or root may cause GI upsets, such as nausea, vomiting and abdominal discomfort. If you intend to use nettle, consult your physician first.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Stinging Nettle
- "Alternative Medicine Review"; Natural treatment of chronic rhinosinusitis; Steve Helms, et al; Sept 2006
- "Planta Med"; Randomized, double-blind study of freeze-dried Urtica dioica in the treatment of allergic rhinitis; P.Mittman; Feb 1990
- University of Michigan Health System: Allergic Rhinitis
- Salisbury University: Nettle
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