Nettle leaf, part of the stinging nettle plant, has been used medicinally for hundreds of years to treat a variety of conditions. It has also been used as a diuretic. It gets its name from fine hairs on the leaves of the plant that release irritating chemicals when the leaf touches your skin. Before using nettle leaf to treat any medical problems, consult your health care provider to see if it is safe for you to use this supplement, as it can interact with medications and may not be suitable for all people.
Step 1
Apply nettle leaf, or stinging nettle, cream to the painful area for osteoarthritis. Follow the directions on the package or as directed by your health care provider. You can also take 2 to 5mL of nettle leaf fluid extract in a 1:1 preparation three times a day with your nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication; some people have found this reduces the amount of medication they need to take.
Step 2
Take 2 to 4g of freeze-dried nettle leaf capsules three times a day to help treat symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH. According to Drugs.com, these capsules should be taken with a full glass of water. Talk with your doctor about using nettle leaf for BPH symptoms before using it. You can also take nettle leaf in this preparation to help prevent and treat symptoms of hay fever.
Step 3
Pour 2/3 cup of boiling water over 3 to 4 tsp. of dried nettle leaves and let it steep for three to five minutes. The University of Maryland suggests drinking this preparation three to four times a day, and says to drink additional water with the tea. This may help osteoarthritis symptoms and hay fever symptoms.
Tips and Warnings
- Use only one form of nettle leaf supplement at a time. If you use more than one preparation, it increases the risk of overdosing. If you use a nettle leaf preparation different than the kinds discussed here, follow the directions on the packaging. Ask your health care provider whether they have any suggestions on how to take the supplement.
- Tell your doctor about any medications or supplements you are on before taking nettle leaf to avoid any adverse interactions, and talk with your health care provider about whether this supplement is appropriate for your symptoms. Nettle can alter the menstrual cycle, and pregnant women should not consume it, as it may increase the risk of miscarriage.
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