Stinging Nettle Leaf: Delving Deep into Its Rich Historical Tapestry

Stinging Nettle Leaf: Ancient Wisdom, Modern Science, and Regenerative Cultivation

At Sacred Plant Co, we grow stinging nettle (Urtica dioica) in living soil that's been nurtured back to ecological balance through regenerative agriculture. Unlike conventional nettle harvested from depleted ground, our plants draw from soil rich with beneficial microbes, mycorrhizal networks, and the complete mineral profile that nature intended. This difference matters—nutrient-dense soil produces nutrient-dense plants, and that density translates directly into the therapeutic compounds you're seeking.

Regenerative cultivation mimics nature's wisdom. Our nettle grows alongside companion plants that fix nitrogen, accumulate minerals, and attract beneficial insects. The result is a resilient ecosystem where nettle thrives without synthetic inputs, developing the robust secondary metabolites—flavonoids, polyphenols, and concentrated minerals—that make this plant so therapeutically valuable. When you choose regeneratively grown nettle, you're supporting not just your health, but the restoration of agricultural systems that build soil, sequester carbon, and honor the intelligence of natural systems.

Stinging nettle has been valued across civilizations for millennia—from ancient Egyptian remedies for arthritis to medieval European spring tonics. This perennial herb, characterized by its serrated leaves and distinctive stinging hairs containing formic acid, may cause temporary discomfort upon contact with bare skin, but this minor inconvenience pales beside its extensive medicinal applications. Traditional herbalists recognized nettle as a nutritive tonic, blood builder, and restorative herb for those recovering from illness or navigating seasonal transitions.

Modern research validates what traditional practitioners observed: nettle demonstrates anti-inflammatory properties, natural antihistamine activity, hormone-modulating compounds, and exceptional mineral content—particularly iron, calcium, and silica.¹ Studies document its effectiveness for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), seasonal allergies, joint inflammation, and as a supportive therapy for various metabolic conditions.²

In this comprehensive exploration, we examine nettle's historical uses across cultures, its nutritional and phytochemical profile, the science supporting its modern applications, and practical methods for incorporating this versatile herb into your wellness practices through teas, tinctures, topical preparations, and culinary creations.

Historical Background and Traditional Uses

Ancient Applications Across Civilizations

Archaeological evidence and ancient texts reveal nettle's prominence in early medicine. Egyptian physicians documented nettle infusions for arthritis and lower back pain as far back as the Middle Kingdom period. Hippocrates, the father of Western medicine, recorded approximately sixty medicinal applications for the plant, including treatments for bleeding, respiratory complaints, and wound healing.³

Roman soldiers famously carried nettle seeds during military campaigns, using the fresh plant's stinging properties in a practice called urtication—deliberately applying nettles to cold or aching limbs to stimulate circulation and warmth. This practice, though uncomfortable, was believed to revitalize exhausted muscles and combat the effects of cold climates encountered during northern campaigns.

In European folklore, nettle held protective significance. Medieval communities planted it around dwellings and hung bundles in doorways, believing it warded off malevolent spirits and negative energies. Norse mythology associated nettle with Thor, symbolizing strength, resilience, and protective power—qualities reflected in the plant's robust nature and defensive chemistry.

Medieval Herbalism and Practical Applications

During medieval times, nettle featured prominently in herbals and medical manuscripts across Europe. Hildegard of Bingen, the renowned 12th-century herbalist, recommended nettle for blood purification, respiratory infections, and urinary tract health. Monastic gardens cultivated nettle both for medicine and practical applications—its fibers produced durable cloth and fishing nets, particularly valuable in regions where flax was scarce.

Medieval households consumed nettle as a spring tonic, recognizing its ability to combat the nutritional deficiencies common after winter months of limited fresh food. Nettle soup, stews, and porridge provided essential vitamins, minerals, and protein when other vegetables remained unavailable. This seasonal practice aligned with traditional European herbalism's emphasis on spring "blood cleansing"—using mineral-rich, gently diuretic herbs to support the body's natural detoxification processes after winter.

Global Traditional Medicine Systems

Beyond Europe, diverse cultures recognized nettle's therapeutic value. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, nettle functions as a blood purifier and is prescribed for chronic skin disorders and urinary tract conditions. Chinese herbalists combine it with complementary herbs to enhance effectiveness and balance its energetic properties, categorizing it as slightly cooling with an affinity for clearing damp-heat conditions.

Ayurvedic medicine in India knows nettle as vrushchika, using it to pacify kapha and vata doshas. Ayurvedic practitioners prescribe nettle to boost metabolism, support respiratory health, treat digestive irregularities, and strengthen reproductive tissues. It appears in traditional formulations for rheumatic conditions and as a rejuvenative tonic for building strength and vitality.

Indigenous American tribes independently discovered nettle's benefits. The Lakota people applied it for muscle and joint pain, while the Ojibwe used it for urinary complaints and as a general tonic. Preparation methods typically involved boiling leaves and stems to create potent infusions, with the plant's nutritive and medicinal properties recognized across numerous tribal traditions.

Nettle Leaf vs. Nettle Root: Understanding the Differences

A common source of confusion in herbal medicine concerns whether to use nettle leaf or nettle root—these plant parts contain different chemical profiles and serve distinct therapeutic purposes. Understanding this distinction ensures appropriate application.

Bulk Stinging Nettle Leaves

$11.64

Premium wildcrafted nettle leaf grown regeneratively in living soil. Lab-tested for purity, rich in minerals, silica, and vitamins. Perfect for teas, infusions, and culinary creations.

Shop Nettle Leaf

Nettle Leaf: Nutritive and Anti-Inflammatory

Nettle leaf stands as one of herbalism's premier nutritive tonics. Rich in chlorophyll, protein (up to 25% dry weight), vitamins A, C, K, and B-complex, plus exceptional mineral content including iron, calcium, magnesium, and silica, nettle leaf functions primarily as a nourishing, anti-inflammatory, and antihistamine herb.⁴

The leaf's applications include seasonal allergy relief, joint inflammation, general nutritional support, hair and skin health, gentle diuretic action for fluid retention, and support during times of increased nutritional needs like pregnancy (under professional guidance), postpartum recovery, or convalescence. Nettle leaf's antihistamine properties derive from quercetin and other flavonoids that help stabilize mast cells, reducing histamine release.⁵

Nettle Root: Hormone Modulation and Prostate Health

Nettle root contains different compounds than the leaf, particularly lignans, sterols, and polysaccharides that interact with hormone metabolism. The root demonstrates particular effectiveness for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in men, working through multiple mechanisms including inhibition of 5-alpha-reductase (the enzyme converting testosterone to DHT), binding to sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), and direct anti-inflammatory effects on prostate tissue.⁶

Research indicates nettle root may improve urinary flow, reduce nighttime urination frequency, and decrease the sensation of incomplete bladder emptying in men with BPH. Nettle root also appears in formulations for hormonal balance and is sometimes used to support healthy androgen metabolism, though these applications require professional guidance.

Key distinction: Nettle leaf = nutritive, anti-inflammatory, antihistamine. Nettle root = hormone modulation, prostate support. They should not be substituted for one another, as their chemical profiles and therapeutic actions differ significantly.

Nutritional Profile: A Mineral Powerhouse

Nettle leaf's reputation as a nutritive herb rests on solid nutritional data. Chemical analysis reveals it surpasses many commonly consumed greens in key nutrients, providing exceptional density in a plant-based form.

Vitamin Content

• Vitamin A (as beta-carotene): Nettle contains ten times the beta-carotene of wheat and barley flours, supporting vision, immune function, skin health, and cellular differentiation.⁷
• Vitamin C: Substantial ascorbic acid content supports immune defense, collagen synthesis, iron absorption enhancement, and antioxidant protection.
• Vitamin K: Essential for blood clotting and bone metabolism, nettle provides significant K1 (phylloquinone).
• B-Complex vitamins: Including thiamine (B1), riboflavin (B2), niacin (B3), and pyridoxine (B6), supporting energy metabolism, nervous system function, and red blood cell formation.

Mineral Density

Nettle's mineral content distinguishes it from other leafy greens:

• Iron: Particularly valuable for those with anemia or increased iron needs, nettle provides non-heme iron in a bioavailable form. The concurrent vitamin C enhances iron absorption when consumed as tea or in food.
• Calcium: Nettle supplies highly absorbable calcium, supporting bone density, muscle contraction, and nerve signaling. Studies suggest nettle calcium may be better absorbed than dairy calcium for some individuals.
• Magnesium: Critical for over 300 enzymatic reactions, muscle relaxation, stress response regulation, and bone health.
• Silica (silicon): Nettle ranks among the richest plant sources of bioavailable silica, reaching up to 1% of dry weight. Silica strengthens connective tissues, improves skin elasticity, supports bone matrix formation, and promotes hair and nail health.⁸
• Potassium, Phosphorus, Zinc, Manganese: Present in therapeutic amounts, supporting fluid balance, energy metabolism, immune function, and antioxidant systems.

Phytochemical Compounds

Beyond basic nutrition, nettle contains numerous bioactive compounds:

• Flavonoids: Quercetin, kaempferol, and rutin provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, with quercetin specifically contributing to antihistamine activity.
• Chlorophyll: The green pigment supports detoxification pathways, provides antioxidant protection, and may enhance energy levels.
• Carotenoids: Including lutein and zeaxanthin, protecting vision and providing systemic antioxidant benefits.
• Phenolic acids: Caffeic acid and other phenolics contribute to anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
• Protein and amino acids: Nettle provides all essential amino acids, with protein content reaching 33.8% in dried form—approximately three times that of wheat or barley.⁹

Comparison with Other Greens

Nutritional analysis consistently demonstrates nettle's superiority to commonly consumed greens. It contains more iron than spinach, more calcium than kale, higher protein than lettuce or chard, and exceptional silica content unmatched by conventional vegetables. For those seeking nutrient density, particularly when addressing deficiencies or increased needs, nettle represents an exceptional botanical choice.

Modern Scientific Research and Therapeutic Applications

Anti-Inflammatory Mechanisms

Research elucidates how nettle reduces inflammation through multiple pathways. Studies demonstrate nettle extracts inhibit pro-inflammatory cytokines including TNF-alpha, interleukin-1 (IL-1), and interleukin-2 (IL-2), while suppressing both cyclooxygenase (COX) and lipoxygenase (LOX) pathways—the same targets addressed by NSAIDs but through gentler botanical action.¹⁰

The anti-inflammatory effects prove particularly valuable for joint conditions. Clinical trials document nettle's effectiveness for osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, with some studies showing comparable pain reduction to standard anti-inflammatory medications when used consistently. The advantage lies in nettle's safety profile—it lacks the gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, and kidney risks associated with long-term NSAID use.

Seasonal Allergy Relief

Perhaps nettle's most celebrated modern application involves seasonal allergies. A landmark study using freeze-dried nettle leaf found 58% of participants rated it moderately to highly effective for allergic rhinitis, with participants reporting reduced sneezing, itching, and nasal congestion.¹¹

The mechanism involves nettle's natural antihistamine compounds, particularly quercetin, which stabilize mast cells and prevent excessive histamine release. Unlike pharmaceutical antihistamines that may cause drowsiness or other side effects, nettle provides allergy relief while simultaneously nourishing the body. Many herbalists recommend beginning nettle supplementation 4-6 weeks before allergy season for optimal preventive effects, continuing throughout the season as needed.

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

Multiple clinical studies support nettle root's effectiveness for BPH symptoms. Research demonstrates nettle root can improve urinary flow rates, reduce nighttime urination frequency, decrease post-void residual urine volume, and improve quality of life scores for men with BPH.¹²

One study comparing nettle root extract to finasteride (a common BPH medication) in rats found comparable effectiveness, suggesting nettle may offer a gentler alternative for mild to moderate BPH. Human trials using 120mg nettle root extract twice daily showed significant symptom improvement over 6-12 months. Nettle root often appears in combination formulas with saw palmetto or pygeum, as these herbs work synergistically for prostate health.

Blood Sugar Regulation

Emerging research suggests nettle may support healthy blood sugar metabolism. Animal studies demonstrate nettle leaf extract reduces blood glucose levels and improves insulin sensitivity. A compound isolated from nettle, designated UD-1, appears to exert insulin-like effects, though human research remains limited.¹³

A systematic review of clinical trials found nettle supplementation reduced fasting blood glucose and hemoglobin A1C in people with type 2 diabetes. While promising, nettle should not replace prescribed diabetes medications but may serve as complementary support under professional supervision.

Cardiovascular Support

Research indicates nettle may benefit cardiovascular health through multiple mechanisms. Its natural diuretic properties help eliminate excess fluid, potentially reducing blood pressure. Studies demonstrate mild blood pressure reduction in hypertensive individuals consuming nettle tea regularly. Additionally, nettle's anti-inflammatory effects benefit vascular health, while its mineral content supports proper cardiac rhythm and function.¹⁴

Hair and Scalp Health

Traditional use of nettle for hair health receives modern validation through its unique phytochemical profile. The high silica content strengthens hair shafts and improves elasticity, while iron supports proper follicle nutrition and oxygenation. Nettle's ability to inhibit 5-alpha-reductase—the enzyme converting testosterone to DHT—may help address pattern hair loss, as DHT contributes to follicle miniaturization in androgenetic alopecia.

Topical nettle rinses deliver minerals directly to the scalp, while internal consumption provides systemic support. The combination proves more effective than external use alone, addressing both nutritional deficiencies and hormonal factors that influence hair growth. For comprehensive information on nettle's hair benefits, see our detailed guide on stinging nettle for hair growth.

Practical Applications: Teas, Tinctures, and Culinary Uses

Nettle Tea: Simple and Effective

Nettle tea represents the most accessible preparation method. For a standard infusion, steep 1-2 teaspoons dried nettle leaf per 8 ounces hot water for 10-15 minutes. Cover while steeping to retain volatile compounds and prevent nutrient loss through evaporation. The tea possesses a mild, slightly grassy, mineral-rich flavor most people find pleasant. Adding lemon enhances iron absorption, while honey provides sweetness if desired.

For maximum nutritive extraction, herbalists recommend long infusions: place 1-2 tablespoons dried nettle in 1 quart (32 ounces) freshly boiled water, cover tightly, and steep 4-8 hours or overnight. Strain and drink throughout the day. This method extracts higher concentrations of minerals and yields a richer, more nourishing beverage. Refrigerate unused portions and consume within 48 hours. For complete brewing instructions, visit our guide on brewing perfect nettle tea.

Nettle Tincture: Concentrated Medicine

Stinging Nettle Extract

$9.99

Double-strength nettle tincture using traditional extraction methods. Concentrated medicine for allergies, inflammation, and daily support. Convenient dropper bottle for precise dosing.

Shop Nettle Extract

Tinctures concentrate nettle's medicinal compounds in alcohol, providing convenience and extended shelf life. Our double-strength nettle extract uses traditional extraction methods to preserve the plant's full spectrum of constituents. Standard dosage: 2-4 droppersful (approximately 2-4ml) up to three times daily, taken directly or diluted in water. Tinctures work quickly, with effects often noticeable within 20-30 minutes, making them ideal for acute allergy symptoms or as part of daily supplementation routines.

Topical Applications

Nettle's benefits extend to external use. For hair care, strong nettle infusions serve as rinses that deliver minerals to the scalp, reduce inflammation, and may stimulate follicle activity. Learn how to create effective nettle hair rinses or nettle-infused oils for scalp massage and deep conditioning treatments.

Neem & Nettle Salve

$15.15

Intensive repair salve combining nettle's anti-inflammatory properties with neem's antimicrobial effects. Therapeutic balm for scalp, skin, and hair health. Natural, plant-based formula.

Shop Neem & Nettle Salve

For skin applications, nettle's anti-inflammatory and astringent properties benefit conditions like eczema, acne, and minor irritations. Our Neem & Nettle Salve combines nettle's soothing properties with neem's antimicrobial effects, creating a therapeutic balm for skin and scalp issues. Apply to problem areas as needed, using the salve for both acute flare-ups and ongoing maintenance.

Culinary Creativity

Fresh or dried nettle leaves make nutritious culinary additions. When using fresh nettles, wear gloves during handling—the stinging hairs lose their sting once cooked or dried. Blanch fresh leaves in boiling water for 1-2 minutes to neutralize the sting, then use as you would spinach or other greens.

Culinary applications include nettle soup (a traditional European spring dish), nettle pesto (replacing basil with blanched nettle leaves), sautéed nettle as a side dish, nettle incorporated into pasta, bread, or frittatas, fresh or dried nettle added to smoothies, and nettle as a mineral-rich addition to stocks and broths. The flavor is mild, slightly earthy, and mineral-forward—less bitter than many greens, making it appealing to diverse palates.

Frequently Asked Questions About Stinging Nettle

Is stinging nettle the same as nettle leaf?

"Stinging nettle" refers to the whole plant Urtica dioica, while "nettle leaf" specifically indicates the leaves of this plant. In herbal products, "nettle leaf" distinguishes the aerial parts (leaves and sometimes stems) from "nettle root," which has different therapeutic applications. When purchasing nettle products, verify whether they contain leaf, root, or both, as these serve different purposes.

Does nettle tea have caffeine?

No. Nettle tea is naturally caffeine-free. Unlike true tea (Camellia sinensis) or coffee, nettle contains no stimulants. This makes it suitable for evening consumption and for individuals sensitive to caffeine. Some people report feeling more energized after drinking nettle tea, but this results from improved mineral nutrition rather than stimulant effects.

How much nettle tea should I drink daily?

Typical recommendations range from 1-4 cups daily, depending on purpose. For general nutrition, 1-2 cups suffices. For therapeutic use (seasonal allergies, joint inflammation), 2-4 cups divided throughout the day proves more effective. Long infusions provide more concentrated nutrition—consume 1-3 cups of strong infusion daily. Start with smaller amounts and gradually increase to assess your tolerance and response.

Can I drink nettle tea every day?

Yes. Nettle leaf is safe for daily, long-term consumption. Traditional herbalism views nettle as a nutritive tonic suitable for extended use, similar to eating leafy greens daily. Many herbalists recommend nettle as a foundational herb for ongoing health maintenance, taken for months or even years. If taking medications or managing health conditions, periodic check-ins with healthcare providers ensure continued appropriateness.

What's better for allergies—nettle tea or nettle capsules?

Both work, with choice depending on preference and severity. Studies supporting nettle for allergies used freeze-dried capsules, providing concentrated, standardized doses. However, many herbalists and users report excellent results with nettle tea consumed 2-4 times daily during allergy season. Tinctures offer a middle ground—concentrated like capsules but liquid like tea. For severe allergies, capsules or tinctures may provide more consistent dosing. For mild to moderate symptoms, tea proves effective and economical. Some people combine methods—capsules for convenience during work hours, tea at home morning and evening.

Does nettle help with hair loss?

Traditional use and emerging research suggest nettle supports hair health through multiple mechanisms. Nettle's high silica content strengthens hair structure, while iron addresses deficiency-related hair loss. Its 5-alpha-reductase inhibiting properties may help with DHT-related pattern hair loss. Clinical evidence remains limited but promising. For best results, combine internal consumption (tea or tincture daily) with topical applications (rinses or oil treatments 2-3 times weekly). Expect 3-6 months of consistent use before evaluating results, as hair grows slowly. Our comprehensive article on nettle for hair growth explores this topic in depth.

Can men and women both use nettle?

Yes. While nettle root specifically supports prostate health in men, nettle leaf benefits all genders. Both men and women use nettle leaf for allergies, inflammation, nutrition, hair health, and energy. Women particularly benefit from nettle's iron content during menstruation, pregnancy (with professional guidance), and postpartum recovery. Nettle's gentle hormone-modulating effects can support both male and female reproductive health, though mechanisms differ. Nettle root is primarily used by men for BPH, though women occasionally use it in hormonal support protocols under professional guidance.

How does nettle compare to antihistamine medications?

Nettle works differently than pharmaceutical antihistamines. Conventional antihistamines block histamine receptors, preventing histamine from binding and causing symptoms. Nettle appears to reduce histamine release by stabilizing mast cells. This upstream approach may explain why some people find nettle more effective for prevention when started before allergy season. Nettle lacks the drowsiness, dry mouth, and other side effects common with many antihistamines. However, pharmaceutical antihistamines typically work faster for acute symptoms. Many people find nettle effective for mild to moderate allergies or use it alongside reduced doses of conventional medications.

Should I use nettle leaf or nettle root for my prostate?

Nettle root is the research-supported choice for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Studies demonstrating improvement in urinary symptoms specifically used nettle root extract, not leaf. The root contains lignans and sterols that interact with prostate tissue and hormone metabolism in ways the leaf does not. Nettle leaf, while beneficial for overall health, does not target prostate function the way the root does. For BPH support, choose products specifically labeled "nettle root" and follow dosing guidelines (typically 300-360mg extract daily). Nettle leaf can be used simultaneously for its general nutritive and anti-inflammatory benefits but should not replace root for prostate-specific concerns.

Can I harvest wild nettle safely?

Yes, with proper precautions. Wild nettle grows abundantly in many regions, particularly near water and in nitrogen-rich soil. When foraging: (1) Wear gloves and long sleeves to avoid stings, (2) Harvest only young top leaves (2-4 leaf sets from the tip), (3) Avoid areas near roads, industrial sites, or where pesticides are used, (4) Verify identification—nettle has opposite leaves with serrated edges and square stems, (5) Harvest in spring before flowering for best flavor and nutrition, (6) Leave at least two-thirds of the plant to allow regrowth. Once harvested, blanch fresh nettle briefly in boiling water to neutralize stinging hairs before using in recipes or dry for long-term storage. Many people prefer to purchase tested nettle from verified sources like Sacred Plant Co to ensure quality and avoid contamination concerns.

Why does some nettle tea taste stronger than others?

Variation in nettle tea strength and flavor relates to several factors: growing conditions (soil quality, climate, harvest time), processing methods (drying temperature and duration), plant parts used (leaves only versus stems and leaves), steeping method (time, temperature, leaf-to-water ratio), and storage (freshness, light and moisture exposure). Nettle from nutrient-rich soil tastes more robust and mineral-forward. Our regeneratively grown nettle develops particularly rich flavor due to enhanced mineral availability in living soil. Longer steeping times and higher leaf-to-water ratios produce stronger, more medicinal tasting infusions. Fresh, properly stored nettle maintains better flavor than old, improperly stored leaves. The flavor should be pleasantly grassy and slightly mineral—if it tastes musty or off, the nettle may be old or improperly stored.

This information is provided for educational purposes only and has not been evaluated by the FDA. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult qualified healthcare providers before using herbal products, especially if pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or managing health conditions.

Nettle's Sacred Nectar Tea Recipe

Stinging Nettle's Sacred Nectar Tea

Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon dried Stinging Nettle leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried Lemon Balm leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried Chamomile flowers
• 2 cups filtered water
• Optional: raw honey or lemon to taste

Instructions:

1. Bring filtered water to a rolling boil.
2. Add stinging nettle, lemon balm, and chamomile to a teapot or heat-safe container.
3. Pour boiling water over herbs and cover tightly.
4. Steep for 10-15 minutes. For stronger medicinal properties, steep up to 30 minutes.
5. Strain into your favorite mug. Add honey or lemon if desired.
6. Enjoy this harmonious blend of robust mineral notes, gentle calming properties, and subtle citrus brightness!

This synergistic combination provides nettle's nutritive and antihistamine benefits, lemon balm's calming and digestive support, and chamomile's gentle relaxation—perfect for evening wind-down or allergy season support.

Conclusion: Integrating Nettle Into Your Wellness Practice

Stinging nettle stands as one of herbalism's most versatile and well-researched plants—a true botanical ally spanning cultures, centuries, and applications. Its extensive traditional use receives increasing validation from modern research, documenting anti-inflammatory properties, antihistamine activity, nutritive density, hormone modulation, and cardiovascular support.

The beauty of nettle lies in its accessibility. Whether consumed as simple tea, concentrated tincture, topical preparation, or nutritious food, nettle offers practical pathways to better health. Its safety profile makes it suitable for long-term use as a foundational wellness herb, while its therapeutic potency addresses specific health concerns from seasonal allergies to joint inflammation.

At Sacred Plant Co, we grow nettle with intention—in soil regenerated through natural farming practices that produce plants of exceptional quality and potency. When you choose our nettle, you're selecting herbs that carry not just the phytochemicals documented by science, but the vital energy of plants grown in ecological balance. This difference—though subtle—matters deeply.

We encourage you to explore nettle's benefits for yourself. Start with daily tea to experience its nutritive effects. Notice how your energy, digestion, and overall resilience respond over weeks and months. For specific concerns—allergies, hair health, joint pain—use targeted preparations consistently for at least 8-12 weeks before evaluating results. Herbs work gently, building wellness over time rather than suppressing symptoms rapidly.

References

1. Kregiel D, Pawlikowska E, Antolak H. Urtica spp.: Ordinary Plants with Extraordinary Properties. Molecules. 2018;23(7):1664. doi:10.3390/molecules23071664
2. Roschek B Jr, Fink RC, McMichael MD, Li D, Alberte RS. Nettle extract (Urtica dioica) affects key receptors and enzymes associated with allergic rhinitis. Phytother Res. 2009;23(7):920-926. doi:10.1002/ptr.2763
3. Grauso L, de Falco B, Lanzotti V, Motti R. Stinging nettle, Urtica dioica L.: Botanical, phytochemical and pharmacological overview. Phytochem Rev. 2020;19:1341-1377. doi:10.1007/s11101-020-09680-x
4. Rutto LK, Xu Y, Ramirez E, Brandt M. Mineral properties and dietary value of raw and processed stinging nettle (Urtica dioica L.). Int J Food Sci. 2013;2013:857120. doi:10.1155/2013/857120
5. Mittman P. Randomized, double-blind study of freeze-dried Urtica dioica in the treatment of allergic rhinitis. Planta Med. 1990;56(1):44-47. doi:10.1055/s-2006-960881
6. Safarinejad MR. Urtica dioica for treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia: a prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study. J Herb Pharmacother. 2005;5(4):1-11.
7. Adhikari BM, Bajracharya A, Shrestha AK. Comparison of nutritional properties of Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica) flour with wheat and barley flours. Food Sci Nutr. 2016;4(1):119-124. doi:10.1002/fsn3.259
8. Johnson TA, Sohn J, Inman WD, Bjeldanes LF, Rayburn K. Lipophilic stinging nettle extracts possess potent anti-inflammatory activity, are not cytotoxic and may be superior to traditional tinctures for treating inflammatory disorders. Phytomedicine. 2013;20(2):143-147. doi:10.1016/j.phymed.2012.09.016
9. Upton R, ed. Stinging Nettles Leaf (Urtica dioica L.): Extraordinary Vegetable Medicine. American Herbal Pharmacopoeia; 2013.
10. Obertreis B, Giller K, Teucher T, Behnke B, Schmitz H. Anti-inflammatory effect of Urtica dioica folia extract in comparison to caffeic malic acid. Arzneimittelforschung. 1996;46(1):52-56.
11. Mittman P. Randomized, double-blind study of freeze-dried Urtica dioica in the treatment of allergic rhinitis. Planta Med. 1990;56(1):44-47.
12. Lopatkin N, Sivkov A, Walther C, et al. Long-term efficacy and safety of a combination of sabal and urtica extract for lower urinary tract symptoms—a placebo-controlled, double-blind, multicenter trial. World J Urol. 2005;23(2):139-146. doi:10.1007/s00345-005-0501-9
13. Tabrizi R, Sekhavati E, Nowrouzi-Sohrabi P, et al. Effects of Urtica dioica on Metabolic Profiles in Type 2 Diabetes: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Clinical Trials. Mini Rev Med Chem. 2022;22(3):550-563. doi:10.2174/1389557521666210325101210
14. Tahri A, Yamani S, Legssyer A, et al. Acute diuretic, natriuretic and hypotensive effects of a continuous perfusion of aqueous extract of Urtica dioica in the rat. J Ethnopharmacol. 2000;73(1-2):95-100. doi:10.1016/s0378-8741(00)00276-0

View Certificate of Analysis (COA) Lab Test Results