Urtica dioica is the scientific name of the stinging nettle, an herb used as a food and medicinal plant. Urtica dioica is best known for improving symptoms of enlarged prostate, eliminating excess fluid from the body and treating allergies, according to Drugs.com. Although Urtica dioica is used by some practitioners of natural medicine for managing anxiety, there is a lack of scientific research to support this benefit. Thus, if you suffer from anxiety and consider taking Urtica dioica, you should first talk to your health care provider.
About Urtica Dioica
Urtica dioica is a perennial herb native to Europe, the U.S. and Canada. The key components of Urtica dioica have been identified and among others nutrients, this herb contains vitamins A, C, K and B, minerals, amino acids and plant compounds like flavonoids and sitosterol, says Drugs.com.
Folk Medicine
According to Health Digest.com, a variety of herbs, including Urtica dioica, have been used for thousands of years to improve anxiety and decrease symptoms of panic attacks. Urtica dioica is considered an adaptogen, which is an herb that helps better cope with physical and emotional stress, indicates Dr. Edward F. Edward, DC.
Research
No clinical studies support Urtica dioica for treating anxiety in medical literature researched by a team led by Dr. Anthony Jorm, according to an article published in the October 2004 issue of "The Medical Journal of Australia." The authors reviewed almost 300 research studies, covering a variety of herbal supplements used traditionally for anxiety.
How Can You Use Urtica Dioica?
As an over-the-counter supplement, Urtica dioica is available in tea, capsules, tablets and liquid forms. As minimal literature exists regarding the use of Urtica dioica in anxiety, no dosage recommendations for this indication can be made. According to Drugs.com, there are no contraindications of using an Urtica dioica supplement, but it should be avoided during pregnancy and lactation. Possible side effects of this supplement include skin irritation, allergic reactions in susceptible individuals and possibly increasing blood sugar levels, says Drugs.com.
Considerations
Although used in traditional medicine, it appears that current research does not support the use of Urtica dioica in improving symptoms of anxiety. If you wish to use natural supplements for your condition, consult an alternative health care provider to find out which herbs and supplements may be beneficial for you. Keep in mind that natural supplements do not replace and should not be used to replace any anti-anxiety drugs. Urtica dioica is not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat anxiety.
