Nettles: Health Benefits, Uses, Side Effects & More!
By Dr Rajeev Singh +2 more
Medically reviewed by Dr Rajeev Singh
Last updated: Jun 14, 2024Click to rate this article!
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By Dr Rajeev Singh +2 more
Medically reviewed by Dr Rajeev Singh
Last updated: Jun 14, 2024Table of Contents
You might see stinging nettles as bothersome weeds. However, these humble plants are proposed to have health benefits. They are full of much-needed nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
In this article, we’ll delve into potential health benefits, uses, and side effects of nettles. Lastly, we will answer some frequently asked questions regarding this topic.
Stinging nettle is scientifically known as Urtica dioica. Below we have described the nutritional profile of nettles.
They’re full of vitamins and minerals like:
Nettles are rich in polyphenols. They’re chemicals with antioxidant properties that shield the body from damage by free radicals. Among the notable polyphenols in nettles, we find kaempferol, quercetin, and caffeic acid. These compounds play a key role in managing and warding off diseases linked to inflammation, such as diabetes, obesity, cancer, and heart ailments.
They contain essential amino acids which are needed to make proteins that our bodies can’t make on their own. These amino acids play a key role in growing and repairing muscles, making hormones, and various metabolic tasks.
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Inflammation is a natural defense method that can help in the short term as the body repairs itself and fights off infections. Yet, when inflammation lingers, it can harm and bring about many health problems.
The antioxidants in nettles may help reduce inflammation by probably blocking the histamine receptors. So, they may be useful in tackling inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Test tube and animal studies have shown that stinging nettle extracts have anti-inflammatory effects. They owe this to their ability to stop the production of certain markers of inflammation. More human research is needed to corroborate these findings.
Many men suffer from an enlarged prostate gland or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). This causes problems with urination like slower flow, not being able to empty the bladder completely, leaking after urination, and a constant urge to urinate.
Research suggests that stinging nettle extracts may have significant effects on BPH symptoms. Especially when combined with other herbs like saw palmetto. Studies show that these extracts may slow the growth of prostate cells. This reduces prostate size and helps to relieve the urinary problems linked to BPH. There’s also some evidence suggesting that nettles may stop the conversion of testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (a potent form of testosterone). This can reduce prostate size and relieve BPH symptoms. More research is needed to confirm these findings.
Allergies come about when the body releases histamine in response to a foreign substance. This leads to inflammation, itching, and other symptoms.
Laboratory and animal studies have discovered that nettle extracts may stop the production of histamine and inflammation linked to it. This makes nettles a promising natural alternative for hay fever and seasonal allergies. More research is warranted.
High blood pressure increases the risk of heart disease and strokes. Some research shows that stinging nettles might have potential in reducing blood pressure. It is proposed to promote the production of nitric oxide. This is a vasodilator that dilates blood vessels and reduces the force of the heart’s contractions. By relaxing blood vessels and easing strain on the heart, nettles may help bring down blood pressure. Also, nettle extracts might act as blockers of calcium channels. This further reduces the force of the heart’s contractions. It contributes to lower blood pressure. However, more human studies are needed to back these effects, early research is full of promise
Many human and animal studies have linked stinging nettles to lower blood sugar levels. This indicates they might be useful in managing diabetes. Research suggests that stinging nettle extracts may help increase insulin sensitivity. By mimicking the effects of insulin, the compounds in nettles may help in taking up glucose and managing overall blood sugar levels. While these findings show promising results for patients with diabetes, more research is needed to know the impact of nettles on managing glucose.
Apart from the above health benefits backed by research, nettles have been used traditionally to manage many other problems. Although these additional benefits need more study, they’re worth noting.
Their possible diuretic effects make nettles good for urinary tract health. Flushing out harmful bacteria and nettles may support medicines to manage infections and other urinary conditions. In men with BPH, nettles have shown promise in improving urine function. Also, its anti-inflammatory property may help it fight microbes. Thus, nettles may be useful in managing UTIs. More research is needed to confirm this use.
As noted earlier, nettles might help relieve arthritis symptoms because of their anti-inflammatory properties. Using nettles on the skin or consuming nettles may improve joint pain, tendonitis, sprains, and strains linked to arthritis or other conditions. Further scientific probing is warranted.
The polyphenols in nettles add to their potential health benefits. These compounds show antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and even anticancer properties.
Polyphenols like kaempferol and quercetin have shown good results in laboratory studies checking their potential to fight cancer. Although research is still in its early days, nettles might hold potential as a naturally derived management for various cancers.
They may improve heart health by reducing inflammation, oxidative stress, and blood pressure. This contributes to a healthier heart and blood circulatory system.
You can have nettles in many forms. These range from dietary supplements and teas to making delicious dishes with nettles.
Stinging nettle tea is made by steeping dried or freeze-dried leaves in hot water. It offers a fast and easy way to enjoy the potential health benefits of nettles, whether at home or on the move.
Making nettle tea is easy. Just steep the dried or freeze-dried leaves in hot water. Let the tastes and helpful compounds mix with the water.
Enjoy one to two cups of nettle tea each day. This depends on what you like and can handle. Start with one cup. See how your body responds before increasing the amount.
Nettle supplements come in capsule, extract, and tincture forms. As such, they offer a handy choice for those looking to bank on the potential health benefits of the weed. This is without having to drink tea or cook with nettles.
Nettle supplements come in various forms. These include capsules, tablets, and liquid extracts. Ask your doctor what form and amount are right for your needs.
When you take a nettle supplement, be sure to follow the tips given by the maker. Or discuss with your doctor for personalised guidance and dosage advice.
Cooking with nettles gives a range of nutrients. It adds an enticing flavour profile and distinct texture to dishes.
Fresh nettles have stinging hairs, so you must handle them with care. Wear gloves and blanch the leaves in boiling water to remove the sting. Once the nettles have been blanched, you can use them in several dishes such as soups, stews, and sautéed dishes.
You can use nettles like leafy greens such as spinach or kale in a range of recipes. Try adding nettles to casseroles, frittatas, and pasta dishes for a tasty and nutrient-rich meal.
Although nettles are generally safe for most people, eating them might cause mild side effects for some. The possible side effects include:
Some people might have an allergic response to nettles. This may cause symptoms like itching, rash, or hives. If you’ve had allergic responses before, you’d better be careful when trying nettles for the first time. Discuss with a healthcare professional if symptoms get worse or hang around.
Nettles might trigger small gastrointestinal issues. These include an upset tummy or diarrhoea in some people. If such symptoms happen, stop using nettles or reduce the amount. Then discuss with a healthcare professional.
Nettle supplements might interact with certain drugs. These include blood thinners, high blood pressure medicines, diuretics, diabetes medications, lithium, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). If you’re currently on any of these medicines, it’s key to discuss with your healthcare professional before you take nettle supplements.
Items with stinging nettle might interact with blood clotting and blood-thinning drugs.
By possibly reducing blood pressure, nettle dietary aids might strengthen the effects of several high blood pressure drugs. These include ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, and calcium channel blockers.
Nettles’ potential diuretic effects might increase the effects of diuretics. These include loop diuretics and thiazides. This may increase the risk of dehydration.
With a possible ability to reduce blood sugar, nettle dietary aid may amplify the effects of diabetes medications. This raises the risk of hypoglycaemia or low blood sugar.
Nettles’ diuretic effects might decrease the body’s ability to get rid of lithium. This could increase lithium levels and possible side effects.
Research shows that stinging nettles may amplify the anti-inflammatory effects of NSAIDs. This reduces pain and irritation from arthritis.
Also Read: Saw Palmetto: Health Benefits, Uses, Side Effects & More!
Whether you’d like to harvest nettles for personal use or aim to avoid touching this stinging plant when exploring nature, it’s key to know how to spot and safely harvest stinging nettle.
Stinging nettles are recognised by their heart-shaped leaves, yellow or pink flowers, and stems covered in tiny, stiff hairs. These hairs can let loose stinging chemicals upon touch, causing irritation and discomfort.
Nettles are mainly found in damp regions with rich soil. They grow mostly in Europe, Asia, and North America. You can find them along riverbanks, edges of forests, and other damp, shaded areas.
To harvest stinging nettles safely, be sure to wear gloves and other protective clothes. This is to avoid touching the plant’s stinging hairs. Use scissors or shears to cut the leaves and stems. Avoid the younger leaves at the top of the plant because they have the highest concentration of stinging hairs.
If you accidentally touch stinging nettles, you might get a rash that looks like hives. Other symptoms include a burning feeling, redness, and itching. To avoid nettle rash, do not touch the plant with bare skin. Wear protective clothes when handling or harvesting nettles. If you get a nettle rash, wash the affected area with soap and water. Then use cool compresses, over-the-counter antihistamines, or topical hydrocortisone creams to ease the symptoms. In case the allergy is severe then you must seek immediate medical help.
Stinging nettles may seem like an ordinary weed. But their amazing range of potential health benefits reveals their true power. Full of nutrients and antioxidants, nettles have shown promise in reducing inflammation, managing symptoms of an enlarged prostate, handling hay fever, and even controlling blood pressure and blood sugar levels.
By adding nettles to your diet through teas, dietary aids, or culinary creations, you could tap into their many potential wellness benefits. Always remember to be careful when handling fresh nettles and discuss with your healthcare professional before starting new supplements or therapy.
Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica) and common nettle (Urtica urens) are both members of the Urtica family. But stinging nettle has more potent chemicals in its hairs, resulting in a stronger sting upon touch.
Though it’s rare, some people might be allergic to eating nettles in dietary aid or tea form. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include itching, rash, or hives. Discuss with a healthcare professional if you suspect an allergic reaction.
Women who are pregnant or nursing should avoid nettles. The plant may kick off uterine contractions or increase the risk of miscarriage.
While generally safe, there are no set rules for using nettles in children but always discuss with a pediatrician before giving nettles to a child.
The time frame for results might vary based on individual elements and the specific health condition being tackled. A healthcare professionals can guide you on expected results and suitable amounts of nettle products for your needs.
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