What is nettle root good for?
History and characteristics
The name Urtica dioica is derived from the Latin word "uro", which means "to burn", as anyone who has had the misfortune of brushing their leg against nettles while on a summer walk will happily agree.This is because the plant is bristling with hundreds of trichomes, hollow stinging hairs on its leaves and stems which, for all intents and purposes, act precisely like hypodermic needles, injecting histamine and other mildly irritating chemicals that produce the characteristic burning sensation.
However, once the plant has been dried or cooked, the stinging aspect of the nettle is mostly neutralized and it can be safely consumed. Several parts of the nettle plant have been a staple in medicine for thousands of years, dating back as far as the ancient Egyptians, who would use nettle for complaints such as arthritis, and perhaps blood pressure too.
Nettle root for inflammation and arthritis
These properties also appear in modern research, where several compounds found within nettle are studied in relation to inflammation.For example, multiple in vitro and animal studies have looked at nettle extract supplementation and the levels of several inflammatory markers. Furthermore, modern human studies have looked at nettle products applied topically and at symptoms associated with arthritis.
Similar results have been reported when nettle extract was taken orally as a supplement, with less pain associated with arthritis, and participants in that study reported lower use of standard painkillers.
Nettle root for prostate health
Benign prostatic hyperplasia, also known as enlarged prostate or simply BPH, is a debilitating condition that can affect up to 50% of men over the age of 50.There is a growing body of research into nettle extract supplementation and BPH, and the way it relates to the conversion of testosterone into dihydrotestosterone, a process which is thought to contribute to the development of BPH.
Nettle root for blood pressure, blood sugar and cardiovascular health
Several animal and in vitro studies have looked at nettle extract supplementation and high blood pressure, and it appears to achieve this through a number of mechanisms.On one hand, it is thought to sit with nitric oxide production, a chemical the research associates with blood vessels, blood flow and the pressure exerted on artery walls. On the other hand, some of the compounds found within nettle function as calcium blockers, meaning that they relax muscles and reduce the force exerted by the heart during contractions.
Additionally, multiple studies have looked at nettle supplementation and lower blood sugar levels, and it is thought that this is due to the way in which some of nettle's compounds replicate the function of insulin.
One particular study that involved 46 people taking 500mg of nettle extract three times daily reported lower blood sugar levels over the course of three months, compared to the group that took a placebo.
When should I take nettle root?
There does not currently appear to be a clear consensus on whether nettle root should be taken in the morning or at night, however most manufacturers recommend taking it with a meal.
What else pairs well with nettle root?
Also taken with saw palmetto extract, for prostate health
Both nettle root and saw palmetto extract are studied in benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH, which involves the prostate becoming enlarged to the point where urination is made quite difficult.There is research that looks at the benefits of taking both nettle root and saw palmetto extract together, compared with the supplements taken individually.
Also taken with pygeum, for prostate health and BPH
Taken together, nettle root and pygeum also cover prostate health, inflammation and BPH, so the two are usually kept side by side.What are natural sources of nettle root?
Stinging nettle is a perennial plant of hedgerows and disturbed ground across Europe, Asia and North America. The leaves are a familiar spring vegetable, blanched into soup, folded into dumplings or dried for tea, and cooking or drying takes the sting out entirely. The root is woody and bitter, taken as a decoction or tincture, and a strong cup brewed from dried root gives a modest, variable dose beside the measured extract in a capsule.
Who should avoid taking nettle root?
Before taking nettle root supplements, check with your trusted healthcare professional if any of the following apply to you:
- Low blood pressure
- Kidney problems
Kidney problems and low blood pressure
A diagnosed kidney condition, or blood pressure readings that are already low, are the situations where the extract can unnecessarily cause additional problems.Remember to always discuss any vitamins or supplements with your trusted healthcare professional if you are suffering from any health conditions.
Possible side effects of nettle root
Possible side effects from taking nettle root supplements may include (but are not limited to) the following:
- Sweating
- Gastrointestinal upset
- Diuresis
If you are experiencing negative side effects from taking nettle root supplements, stop taking them immediately and reach out to your trusted healthcare professional.
Drug interactions with nettle root
The medicines listed below are the ones most often named in interaction reports for nettle root, but it is by no means a comprehensive list:
- Blood thinners
- Benzodiazepines & sedatives
- Blood pressure medicines
- Diabetes medicines
- Lithium
If you are taking any prescription drugs or medication, check with your trusted healthcare professional before taking nettle root supplements.
Can I take nettle root while pregnant or breastfeeding?
The root has a mild diuretic effect, and no human pregnancy trials exist, so it is advisable to not take it during pregnancy until further research appears.
Remember to always discuss any vitamins or supplements with your trusted healthcare professional while pregnant or breastfeeding, or while attempting to conceive.
Where should I store nettle root?
For optimal shelf life, it is recommended to keep nettle root supplements stored in the cupboard. Always make sure the bottle or container is tightly closed, and kept away from sources of light, heat and humidity.
Nettle root data sources & further reading
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