nettle

Action and Spectrum

Actions and Spectrum: 

Supplements containing nettle are frequently utilized for their anti-inflammatory characteristics. They can aid in diminishing inflammation in ailments like arthritis, allergies, and respiratory issues. 

Historically, nettle has been utilized to relieve symptoms of allergic rhinitis such as itching, congestion and sneezing. nettle is recognized as a natural diuretic, which can potentially enhance urine output and facilitate the elimination of toxins from the body. 

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency not defined  

Allergic reaction (rare) 

Diarrhea 

Black Box Warning

Black Box Warning 

nettle herbal supplements do not have any known black box warnings. 

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution: 

• Insufficient research has been conducted on the consumption of nettle supplements during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Hence, it is advisable to refrain from using nettle supplements during these phases. 
• nettle is known to possess gentle blood-thinning characteristics. Thus, people who are on anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs like aspirin or warfarin should be careful when taking nettle supplements. 
• The use of nettle supplements may lead to an increase in urine production due to its diuretic properties. 

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy warnings:     

Pregnancy category: N/A 

Lactation: N/A 

Pregnancy Categories:         

Category A: Studies that were well-controlled and met expectations revealed no risk to the fetus in either the first or second trimester. 

Category B: There were lack of studies on pregnant women and no evidence of risk to the foetus in animal experiments.   

Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.    

Category D: adequate data available with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits.   

Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women.    

Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category

Pharmacology

Pharmacology 

The stinging nettle plant comprises various bioactive elements including flavonoids, phenolic acids, and lignans that exhibit anti-inflammatory characteristics. These constituents can hinder pro-inflammatory enzymes and mediators, ultimately lessening inflammation within the body. 

nettle has been employed to treat allergic ailments, and its antihistamine properties may contribute to its efficacy. 

nettle also possesses gentle diuretic attributes, which can augment urine production and facilitate the removal of surplus fluids from the body. This diuretic effect is due to the existence of compounds such as flavonoids and potassium.  

Pharmacodynamics 

nettle has been utilized to mitigate allergic indications, and its antihistamine properties contribute to this. It is theorized that nettle obstructs the attachment of histamine to its receptors, subsequently decreasing the allergic reaction and related symptoms such as itching, sneezing, and congestion. 

Some elements within nettle, such as lignans and lectins, have shown to have anti-proliferative properties on cells. They could impede cell growth, especially in the situation of prostate cells in benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). 

Pharmacokinetics 

Absorption   

The uptake of nettle compounds can differ based on the preparation and method of delivery. When ingested as a supplement, the active components in nettle may be taken in through the digestive tract. The uptake may be impacted by variables like the existence of other substances, the person’s digestive system, and the supplement’s composition. 

Distribution 

After being taken in, the active compounds in nettle may be dispersed throughout the body via the circulatory system. The dispersion of nettle constituents may be affected by factors like their solubility, protein binding ability, and potential affinity for certain tissues or organs. 

Metabolism 

The breakdown of nettle compounds has not been thoroughly researched. It is established that the liver plays a significant role in breaking down different plant chemicals. nettle compounds may undergo metabolic changes in the liver, potentially affecting their effectiveness and absorption. 

Elimination and excretion 

The discharge of nettle compounds from the body can happen through different means. nettle constituents that have been altered or remain unchanged can exit through urine, feces, or bile. Various factors, including the compounds chemical properties, metabolites, and the person’s liver and kidney functions, can influence the elimination process. 

Adminstartion

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: nettle   

Why do we use nettle? 

Supplements containing nettle are frequently utilized to alleviate the symptoms of seasonal allergies, such as hay fever. The anti-inflammatory characteristics of nettle may help diminish allergic reactions and ease symptoms such as sneezing, itching, and congestion. 

nettle supplements have been employed to promote joint health and alleviate symptoms of arthritis. The anti-inflammatory properties of nettle may help decrease joint pain, stiffness, and swelling associated with conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. 

Extracts from nettle root are commonly used to promote prostate health in men. They may help alleviate symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), such as frequent urination, urinary flow problems, and prostate enlargement.