Urtica galeopsifolia nettle is also known as stingless nettle. This nettle plant is commonly treated as a subspecies of the regular, or stinging, nettle. Nettle is used to treat urinary problems, prostate problems, bladder and kidney stones, rheumatism, hay fever and sprains and strains. Nettle can have side effects and may interact with medications. Consult a doctor before using nettle.
Side Effects
Gastric irritation such as an upset stomach or diarrhea is the most common side effect of using nettle internally. If this is persistent, consult a doctor. Also consult a health care provider if you experience other possible side effects including menstrual problems or a decrease in the amount of urine you produce. With external use, you may experience stinging or burning when nettle formulations are applied to your skin. If you have congestive heart failure or kidney dysfunction avoid using nettle because it may worsen your condition, according to "The Essential Herb-Drug-Vitamin Interaction Guide," by George T. Grossberg and Barry Fox. Do not use nettle if you are pregnant. Doing so can contribute to miscarriage.
Allergy Effects
You may have an allergic reaction to nettle. Seek medical attention immediately if you have symptoms of such a reaction. These may include itching, a rash, hives, difficulty swallowing or breathing, a tight chest, and swelling of your face, mouth, tongue or lips.
Medication Effects
If you take nettle along with certain medications you increase your risk for mental depression and impairment or excessive sedation. These include anesthetic drugs like alfentanil, depression medicines such as amoxapine and doxepin, and pain medicines like codeine. Taking nettle with medications like amiloride and etozolin can increase diuretic effects of the drugs. Taking it with medication used to combat iron deficiency such as ferrous sulfate can interfere with the drugs' absorption. Taking nettle with lithium may be harmful because it can increase risk for lithium toxicity as well as dehydration. Nettle also may lower both blood sugar and blood pressure, so consult a doctor if you take drugs for diabetes or hypertension before using it because it may magnify their effects.
Vitamin K Effects
Nettle has a high vitamin K content. This may interfere with the action of blood-thinning medications like warfarin and increase your risk for clotting. This risk may be magnified if you take other vitamin-K rich herbs such as watercress, cabbage, parsley and alfalfa.
References
- Botanical Socity of the British Isles; Species Accounts; Urtica dioica and U. galeopsifolia; September 2010
- "The Essential Herb-Drug-Vitamin Interaction Guide"; George T. Grossberg and Barry Fox; 2007
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Stinging Nettle; February 2009
- Drugs.com: Nettle Side Effects; July 2011
