Nettle Extract (Urtica Dioica)

Nettle extract is an herb that has traditionally been used as a treatment for urinary retention because of its diuretic properties. It has also been used for mild situations of inflammation and joint pain. In recent years, it has been shown to be a significant help in the treatment of various types of allergies and allergic phenomenon as well as in the treatment of benign prostate enlargement, or BPH.

Nettle extract itself has numerous active components, including phytosterols, triterpene acids, lignins, polysaccharides, and a simple phenol compound. Numerous experimental pharmacological studies have shown that nettle extract inhibits prostate aromatase. The aromatase enzyme can convert testosterone to estrogen and can act as an intermediary as an anti-inflammatory. The nettle extract seems to have a favorable effect in the optimization of sex hormone binding globulin activity, which probably contributes to the improvement in overall prostate function. In addition, because of its activity on the prostaglandin synthesis (shifting the body to a more anti-inflammatory state), it can be helpful for some types of headaches, especially allergically mediated headaches, and for limiting allergy symptoms.

The dosage is usually in the range of one or two capsules twice daily of a standardized extract. Side effects are relatively rare. In one observational study, with 4,087 patients taking a dose of 600-1,200 mg daily, only 35 patients reported any noticeable side effects. Thirty-tree noted gastrointestinal complaints (which was a 0.65% risk) and nine-noted skin allergies and sensitivities (which was a 0.19% risk). Aside from mild gastrointestinal complaints and a very rare skin allergy/sensitivity (of less than two occurrences per 1,000 patients), nettle seems to be very safe and without contra-indications.

If you have specific questions, please contact the Advanced Medical Center.

Dale Guyer, M.D.