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Highlights on nutritional and therapeutic value of stinging nettle (Urtica

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 Innovare International Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences
Academic Sciences
ISSN- 0975-1491 Vol 7, Issue 10, 2015

Review Article
HIGHLIGHTS ON NUTRITIONAL AND THERAPEUTIC VALUE OF STINGING NETTLE
(URTICA DIOICA)

AMAL AIT HAJ SAID1*, IBRAHIM SBAI EL OTMANI2, SANAE DERFOUFI3, ADNANE BENMOUSSA3
1Laboratory of Pharmacognosy, 2Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry and Food Science, 3Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of
Medicine and Pharmacy of Casablanca, Hassan II University, 19 rue Tarik Ibn Ziad, BP 9154, Casablanca, Morocco
Email: amal.aithaj@gmail.com
Received: 26 Jul 2015 Revised and Accepted: 02 Sep 2015
ABSTRACT
Urtica dioica L. is a herbaceous plant belonging to the family of Urticaceae that has been used for centuries against a variety of diseases. Thanks to
its high content of nutriments and bioactive compounds like poly phenols, vitamins and minerals, nettle possesses a great nutritional value and a
large number of pharmacological effects, including anti-proliferative, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, analgesic, immunostimulatory, anti-infectious,
hypotensive, antiulcer activities and cardiovascular disease prevention. Stinging nettle is considered safe and has been shown to be side effects free,
when taken by mouth of up to 18 gram per day. The most common stinging nettle preparations usually include the crude dried powder, dry extract,
infusion (herbal tea), decoction or fresh juice. Stinging nettle root is mainly used for mictional disorders related to benign prostatic hyperplasia
while the leaves are used for arthritis, rheumatism and allergic rhinitis. This up to date review highlights the current knowledge and scientific
advances concerning Urtica dioica.
Keywords: Urtica dioica, Polyphenols, Urtica Dioica Agglutinin (UDA), Benign prostatic hyperplasia, Rheumatism.

INTRODUCTION and the genus Urtica characterized by unicellular stinging hairs.

The erect stems are strong, hairy, mostly unbranched and
Nettle has been used for over 2,000 y as a natural remedy for its quadrangular. They are green in young plants and
therapeutic properties. However, it was until the beginning of the purple/reddish in older ones. The leaves are opposite, egg-
20th century that its medicinal importance was largely studied and shaped, elongated, with a strongly serrated margin and a pointed
dramatically enhanced, beginning with the determination of the
tip (fig. 1). The leaves and stems are very hairy and bear many
chemical structure of the main chemically active agents and their
stinging hairs whose tips come off when touched, transforming
pharmacological properties. It should be stressed that most of the
the hair into a needle that injects a stinging liquid. The nettle is
indications from traditional medicine have been validated and new
dioecious with separate male and female plants that flower from
properties have been discovered. Moreover, given its balanced
June to September. The flowers are unisexual, small, and are
protein composition and its high content of minerals and vitamins,
arranged in clusters on slender, branched spikes formed in the
nettle has also been shown to be of great nutritional interest.
leaf axils. Female flowers are greenish and have a unilocular
In Morocco, these medical and nutritional data remain poorly ovary with a solitary ovule bearing one style with a brush-like
explored, and the use of nettle is being increasingly neglected both stigma. Male flowers are yellowish and composed of 4 stamens,
in the culinary field and in the medical and veterinary areas. with long elastic filaments, which are bent inwards in the bud.
Stinging nettle produces oval-shaped achenes (one-seeded
This work highlights the current knowledge and scientific advances fruits) containing tiny dark brown or almost black seeds. The
concerning Urtica dioica. We begin with a botanical and a root system is composed of a taproot which branches into fine
phytochemical study of the plant and its traditional medical uses in rootlets allowing the tuft nettle to expand [1, 2].
Morocco. We then look in detail at its nutritional and medical
properties and we describe, at last, its methods of preparation and Traditional medicinal uses
use, its toxicity and the use precautions.
In Morocco, all parts of the plant are used in traditional
Botanical study medicine. The whole plant is used as a diuretic, anti-
hypertensive, anti-diabetic, hemostatic, anti-asthenia,
Native to Eurasia, nettle was widely distributed throughout all the
antianemic, antispasmodic, antirheumatic and as a remedy for
temperate regions of the world. It is now found in Europe (more in
headaches and chills [3, 4]. Nettle is also used to treat spleen,
northern than in southern Europe), in northern Africa, in Asia and in
renal and dermal disorders [5]. The seeds are administered
northern and southern America where it’s also largely widespread [1].
orally for their aphrodisiac and galactagogue effects and other
Table 1 summarizes the most known common names of Urtica dioica.
traditional uses against tuberculosis and kidney stones have
Nettle is a herbaceous plant, 1 to 2m tall and perennial with been described [6]. External uses include the treatment of
rhizomes. It belongs to the Urticaceae family in the Rosales order aphthae, hemorrhoids, scabies and pruritus [4].

Table 1: Common names of Urtica Dioica all around the world

Latin name Urtica dioïca L. Syn
English names Nettle; Common nettle; Stinging nettle; Tall nettle; Slender nettle; Greater nettle.
French names Ortie dioïque; Grande ortie; Ortie piquante; Ortie élevée.
Arabic names ‫( ﺍﻟﻘﺮﺍﺹ ;ﺍﻟﺤﺮﻳﻜﺔ‬Hourriga; Kerrass)
5T T 5T 15

Spanish names Ortiga; Ortiga gran; Ortiga grossa; Ortiga major; Ortiga inayor.
German names Brennesslbatter; Brennessel-kraut; Nesslkraut; Haarnesselkraut.
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Int J Pharm Pharm Sci, Vol 7, Issue 10, 8-14

These flavonoids have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties

that may limit oxidative damage responsible for some chronic
diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases and degenerative
diseases. They have many other effects, such as the inhibition of lipid
peroxidation of liver mitochondria and blood cells and have also
been shown to have hypoglycemic, antibacterial and antiviral
properties [8-10]. The most active flavonoid is quercetin. It has
strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions [11]. It is not only
capable of reducing the incidence of mammary tumors in rats [12,
13] but it also has anti-tumor activity against prostate cancer [14].
Its anti-ulcerogenic activity has also been demonstrated [15, 16].
The antioxidant activity of rutin is similar to that of quercetin [17-
19]. In addition, it has anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer properties and
reduces the cytotoxicity of oxidized bad cholesterol (LDL) [20, 21].
Tannins, caffeic acid, ferulic acid and coumarins also have
antioxidant activity and may protect cells against damage caused by
free radicals [22, 23].
Nettle root contains a lectin called Urtica dioica Agglutinin (UDA).
This lectin is somewhat unique. It has a low molecular weight (8 to 9
kDa) and consists of a single polypeptide chain of less than 100
amino acids [24]. The UDA has immunomodulatory activity and
appears to limit the autoimmune manifestations [25]. Table 2
Fig. 1: Urtica dioica, botanical aspects (Pictures from Wikipedia. summarizes the chemical composition of nettle’s main parts.
Permission granted to copy, distribute and/or modify under the
terms of the GNU Free Documentation License) Nutritional value
Nettle leaves are rich in protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins,
minerals and trace elements. Proteins make up of 30% of the dry
Phytochemical study mass [31]. Furthermore, the protein content of the leaves widely
The leaves of nettle are rich in flavonoids, as well as phenolic covers the needs of amino acids, especially the essential amino acids
compounds, organic acids, vitamins and minerals. The root contains for humans [33, 38]. Content of mineral substances is about 20% of
lectins, polysaccharides, sterols and lignans. The stinging action is the dry mass [31, 45]. Nettle is rich in iron, zinc, magnesium,
due to the liquid contained in nettle’s hairs. This liquid contains at calcium, phosphorus and potassium. Leaves content of cobalt, nickel,
least three compounds that could be the cause of its allergic molybdenum and selenium have also been determined [32]. The
reactions: acetylcholine, histamine and serotonin [2, 7]. proportions of different compounds given in the literature are
different. The origin and time of sample collection may be
Nettles secondary metabolites have marked pharmacological responsible for that. The maximum and minimum levels of various
properties. The main flavonoids are quercetin, kaempferol and rutin. compounds are shown in tables 3 and 4.

Table 2: Chemical composition of Urtica dioica

Part used Chemical composition References
Aerial Flavonoids: Quercetin-3-O-rutinoside (rutin), kaempferol-3-O-rutinoside and isorhamnetin-3-O-glucoside. [26-28]
parts Organic acids: Caffeic acid and its esters, ferulic acid, chlorogenic, citric, fumaric and phosphoric acids. [26, 29]
Essential oil: Carvacol, carvone, naphthalene, (E)-anethol, hexahydrofarnesyl acetone, (E)-geranyl acetone, (E)-β- [30]
ionone and phytol.
Minerals and trace elements: Calcium, Potassium, Magnesium, Phosphorus, Iron, Sulphur, Zinc, Manganese, Copper, [31-37]
Nickel and Selenium.
Vitamins: vitamin A (retinol), vitamin B2 (riboflavin), vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid), vitamin B9 (folic acid), vitamin C [33, 38]
(ascorbic acid), vitamin K (phylloquinone).
Other constituents: Tannins, chlorophyll and carotenoids. [38]
Root Acidic polysaccharides: glucans, arabinogalactans and rhamnogalacturonans. [39]
Flavonoids: myricetin, quercetin, kaempferol, quercetin-3-O-rutinoside (rutin), kaempferol-3-O-rutinoside and [40]
isorhamnetin.
Minerals and trace elements: Calcium, Magnesium, Zinc, Manganese and Copper. [34]
Lectins: Urtica dioica agglutinin (UDA), consisting of a single-chain polypeptide made of 89 amino acids and rich in [24, 41]
glycines, cysteines and tryptophans.
Phytosterols: β-sitosterol; β-sitosterol-3-O-β-glucoside, (6'-O-palmitoyl)-sitosterol-3-O-β-D-glucoside; 7β– [27, 39]
hydroxysitosterol; 7α-hydroxysitosterol; 7β-hydroxysitosterol-β-D-glucoside; 7α-hydroxysitosterol-β-glucoside; 24R-
ethyl-5α-cholestane-3β,6α-diol; stigmasterol, campesterol, stigmast-4-en-3-on, hecogenin.
Lignans: neo-olivil, secoisolariciresinol, dehydrodiconiferyl alcohol, isolariciresinol, pinoresinol, and 3,4- [42, 43]
divanillyltetrahydrofuran.
Coumarins: Scopoletin [39, 43]
Fruit Fixed oil: saturated and unsaturated fatty acids. [44]
(seeds) Carotenoids: β-carotene, lutein and violaxantin.
Polysaccharides.

The vitamin composition is very varied. It contains both fat-soluble B3 (Niacin), 0.068 mg vitamin B6, 238 mg of vitamin C, 5 mg of pro-
vitamins A, D, E and K, and also significant amounts of water-soluble vitamin A (β-carotene) and 14.4 mg of vitamin E (α-tocopherol) [38].
vitamins, such as vitamin C and the B vitamins (B1, B2, B3, B9).
Wetherilt found that 100g of fresh leaves contained 0.0l mg vitamin This richness in nutrients gives the nettle valuable nutritional and also
B1 (thiamine), 0.23 mg of vitamin B2 (riboflavin), 0.62 g of vitamin pharmacological properties. Trace elements and vitamins strengthen

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the immune system and allow the body to better resist bacterial and The root extract reduces the production of estrogen by aromatase
viral infections. The simultaneous presence in nettle of vitamins B1, C, inhibition, thereby decreasing the conversion of androgens to
E, iron, zinc, selenium and manganese contributes to its anti-oxidant estrogens [50]. Also, it was mentioned that root extracts inhibit the
qualities. Nettle has also a remineralizing action, thanks to the enzymatic activity of the membrane of prostate cells, which would
presence of calcium, potassium, silicon and iron. It would be beneficial stop its growth [45, 51]. Clinical studies on a root extracts showed a
in osteoarthritis and osteoporosis. The high potassium content is significant improvement of the symptoms of benign prostatic
another indicator of the protective power of nettle leaves against hypertrophy [52-54].
cardiovascular disease. The iron content and also the presence of
vitamin C, which increases the bioavailability of iron makes that nettle Anti-inflammatory activity
is indicated for the treatment of anemia. Additionally, the magnesium Scientific research has highlighted the nettle's ability to decrease the
intake it provides reduces the incidence of all forms of stress while inflammatory response, through multiple mechanisms whose
zinc has an anti-inflammatory action. consequences are the reduction of synthesis of lipid mediators and
Another asset of the nettle is chlorophyll. The nettles leaves contain proinflammatory cytokines. Indeed, leaf extracts inhibit the
a significant amount of chlorophyll, around 4.8 mg per gram of dry biosynthesis of arachidonic acid cascade enzymes, in particular the
leaves [46]. This chlorophyll promotes cleansing and detoxification, cyclo oxygenases COX-1 and COX-2, thereby blocking the
it cleanses the digestive system and fights bloating and bad breath. biosynthesis of prostaglandins and thromboxanes [55].
In addition, chlorophyll promotes regeneration of cells and activates In addition, an inhibitory effect was demonstrated on the NF-kappa
wounds healing. B (nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells)
Finally, thanks to their high content of protein, essential amino acids, system involved in immune, inflammatory and antiapoptotic
vitamins and iron, nettle leaves can be an important nutritional responses [56,57] and the PAF (Platelet Activating Factor) [55].
supplement. Therefore, they can be a good remedy for the treatment Furthermore, several studies have shown that the extract of the
of protein-energy malnutrition in malnourished children, pregnant leaves reduces the release of Interleukins IL-2 and IL-1β, Interferon
women, convalescents and the elderly. γ (IFN γ) and Tumour Necrosis Factors TNF-α and TNF-κ [58,59].
Therefore, the anti-inflammatory effect of nettle leaves suggest that
it may be useful in acute inflammatory diseases but also in chronic
Table 3: Nutritional composition of fresh leaves of stinging diseases, like rheumatoid arthritis.
nettle [31, 33-36]
The aqueous extract of nettle roots also has anti-inflammatory
Nutritional constituent Min (%) Max (%) activity. Wagner had shown that a polysaccharide fraction of this
Water 65 90 extract has an inhibitory effect on the induced rat paw oedema,
Proteins 4.3 8.9 comparable to that of indomethacin [60]. The anti-inflammatory
Ashes 3.4 18.9 effect is related to the inhibition of cyclo oxygenases and
Carbohydrates 7.1 16.5 lipoxygenases, and to cytokines production.
Lipids 0.7 2
Antioxidant activity
Fibers 3.6 5.3
Calories (kcal/100g) 57 99.7 Extracts of nettle have a neutralizing role of reactive oxygen species
(ROS). Their antiradical activity on the superoxide anion O2 °-, the
hydroxyl radical OH ° and nitric oxide radical NO ° was determined
Table 4: Content of mineral and trace elements (mg/100 g of by spectrophotometry. Numerous studies have shown that the
dry matter) [31-37] methanolic and ethanolic extracts of leaves have a remarkable
antioxidant effect on the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical
Minerals and trace elements mg/100 g of dry matter (DPPH) [9, 61-63].
Min Max
Chelation of ferrous iron was evaluated using ferrozine, which forms
Minerals Calcium 113.2 5090
a red chromophore with the residual iron (FeII-Ferrozine) having an
Magnesium 0.22 3560
absorption maximum at 562 nm. The absorbance obtained shows
Phosphorus 29 75
that nettle has a significant chelating activity of the ferrous ions [63].
Potassium 532 917.2
Sodium 5.5 16 Another study conducted on rats treated with carbon tetrachloride
Trace elements Cobalt 0.0084 0.018 (CCl 4 ), showed that nettle decreased lipid peroxidation and
Copper 0.52 1.747 increased the activity of the antioxidant defense system playing thus
Iron 3.4 30.30 a protective role against hepatotoxicity. This antioxidant activity is
Manganese 0.768 5.784 essentially correlated to the phenolic compounds content [9, 64].
Molybdenum 0.4265 -
Nickel 0.0732 - Immunomodulatory activity
Selenium 0.0027 0.0074 Many studies indicate that flavonoids are able to modulate the
Zinc 0.9 3.033 immune system. This modulatory effect of the aerial parts of nettle
was studied on mice, using an ethanolic extract at two different
doses (50 and 100 mg/kg), taken orally for 14 d. The activities of
Pharmacological properties enzymes such as cytochrome P450, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH)
and NADPH-cytochrome P450 reductase showed a significant
Antiproliferative activity decrease while the antioxidant enzymes showed a significant
Many research works show that nettle root's components can increase. In addition, the plant has also shown a modulatory effect
interfere with several mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of on enzymes of the kidney, lung and stomach, such as glutathione-S-
benign prostatic hyperplasia. The antiproliferative effect on prostate transferase, superoxide dismutase and catalase [65].
cancer cells of UDA and the methanolic alcoholic root extracts has Quercetin-3-O-rutinoside, kaempherol-3-O-rutinoside and
been demonstrated in vivo and in vitro [45, 47, 48]. isorhamnetin-3-O-glucoside present in the aerial parts of the nettle
contributes to the immunomodulatory activity [2, 66].
Lignans from root extract not only inhibit the binding of androgens
to their transporter proteins SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin), Furthermore, the immunomodulatory effect of the UDA isolated
but also the binding of these proteins to the membrane receptors of from the roots, has been demonstrated in several studies that
the prostate, thereby inhibiting their proliferative activity on elucidate their action on T cells, macrophages, thymocytes and on
prostate tissues [42, 45, 49]. the release of TNFα [60].

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Analgesic and antinociceptive properties accompanied by a decrease in blood sugar. Tests performed on
normal and diabetic rats after intra peritoneal injection of aqueous
In addition to its anti-inflammatory action, the nettle has an extracts confirmed this result [73].
analgesic effect, proved in vivo in rats and mice. The aqueous extract
of the leaves at the dose of 1200 mg/kg is capable of reducing the Antihypertensive action
thermal stimulation in the hot plate test at 55 °C and causes a
greater resistance to pain [67]. Intravenous injections of an aqueous extract of the aerial parts of the
nettle, using two concentrations: 4 and 24 mg/kg/h resulted in a
The antinociceptive effect of the hydroalcoholic extract of nettle blood pressure drop of 15% and 38% proportionally to the
leaves was evaluated through the acetic-acid writhing test and administered dose. This decrease was correlated with an increase in
formalin-induced paw licking test. The results obtained show that diuresis and natriuresis. However, the hypotensive effect was
the hydroalcoholic extract significantly reduces in a dose-dependent reversible after one hour if a low concentration (4 mg/kg/h) had
manner the nociceptive response in mice and rats. Flavonoids, the been used, while it persisted when using a high concentration (24
caffeoyl malic acid and the caffeic acid could be responsible for these mg/kg/h) [74].
analgesic properties [56].
Moreover, root extracts tested on isolated pieces of vaso constricted
Antiulcer properties aorta showed a relaxant activity. This vasodilator effect is due to the
release of the endothelial nitrogen oxide, potassium channel opening
The protective effect of the nettle against gastric ulcers is dose and a negative inotropic action [75].
dependent. The aqueous extract of aerial parts, at doses of 50 and
200 mg/kg protected rats against gastric ulcer, with significant Effect on platelet aggregation
protection rates ranging from 67.7 to 77.8%. Moreover, this extract
showed analgesic activity against gastric dilatation caused by acetic Several studies indicate that extracts of nettle strongly inhibit
acid [63]. platelet aggregation. The inhibitory effect of the aqueous extract of
the leaves on platelet aggregation induced by thrombin was clearly
Anti-infective properties demonstrated. Flavonoids are the main compounds involved in this
activity [76, 77].
The antibacterial properties of various extracts of Urtica dioica
against different bacterial strains were identified by several studies. Action on hyperlipidemia and atherosclerosis
In a study conducted on nine bacteria: Citrobacter koseri,
Enterobacter aerogenes, Escherichia coli, Micrococcus luteus, Proteus Daily administration of aqueous extract of Urtica dioica at 150
mirabilis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, mg/kg for 30 d, either as part of a normal or high fat diet, caused a
Staphylococcus epidermidis, and Streptococcus pneumoniae, the reduction in serum lipids and lipoproteins. Significant decreases in
aqueous extract of aerial parts inhibited the growth of all these cholesterol and LDL/HDL ratio (Low Density/High Density
bacteria except some strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa [63]. Lipoproteins) were observed [77].

Another study on 38 microorganisms brought evidence of the Similarly, administration of an ethanolic extract to
bactericidal effect of organic extracts of the aerial parts. These extracts hypercholesterolemic rats, using doses of 100 mg/kg and 300
inhibited the growth of Acinetobacter calcoaceticus, Bacillus cereus, mg/kg, was responsible for the decreased of cholesterol and LDL
Bacillus spizizenii, Bacillus subtilis, Citrobacter freundii, Entrobacter levels [78, 79].
aerogenes, Erwinia sp., Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Anti allergic activity
Micrococcus sp., Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Salmonella paratyphi B,
Serratia marcescens, Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus The anti-allergenic activity of the nettle is mainly due to two
(MRSA) and Vibrio parahaemolyticus. Phenolic compounds in the mechanisms. In addition to its inhibition of histamine H1 receptors,
nettle would be responsible for this antibacterial effect [68]. nettle inhibits tryptase, consequently reducing mast cell
degranulation and the release of proinflammatory cytokines [55].
The antiviral activity of the nettle was evaluated in vitro [69]. The
selective and powerful inhibitory action of UDA on the intracellular In a randomized double-blind study with allergic patients having
replication of HIV (HIV-l and HIV-2), respiratory syncytial virus allergic rhinitis, an improvement in symptoms was observed after
(RSV), and cytomegalovirus (CMV), was well elucidated [70]. one week of treatment [80].

The antimycotic activity on some pathogenic fungi (Alternaria alternata, Toxicity

Aspergillus flavus, Candida albicans, Ceratcystis ulmi, Fusarium
Toxicological studies have shown that the LD50 (median lethal dose)
oxysporum, Fusarium solani, Phoma exigua, Phytophthora carotovora,
of the aqueous extract of the leaves administered intraperitoneally
Porphyromonas gingivalis, Microsporum cookei, Microsporum gypseum,
in mice is 3.5g/Kg [72]. While the LD50 of the hydro-alcoholic
Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Trichoderma viride, Trichophyton
extract of the leaves administered orally is 5.77 g/Kg [56].
mentagophytes and Rizoctonia solani) was also confirmed [63, 71].
Toxicity studies carried out on the roots have shown that the LD50
Antidiabetic activity
values obtained after intravenous injection of an aqueous extract
A study conducted to evluate the anti-diabetic activity in vivo and an infusion of the roots to rats are respectively 1.721 g/kg and
showed the hypoglycemic effect of aqueous extracts of leaves of 1.929 g/kg [81].
nettle on diabetic rats. These results are explained by the inhibition
Whereas the LD50 of hydro-alcoholic extracts administered
of the intestinal absorption of glucose [72].
intraperitoneally is 600 mg/Kg [82]. The toxic dose of the fixed oil of
Furthermore, studies performed on the islets of Langerhans have nettle seeds is greater than 12.8 ml/kg [83]. For chronic oral
demonstrated the stimulatory action of nettle on insulin secretion, application in rats, the DL50 was 1.31g/kg (table 5).

Table 5: LD50 of different Urtica dioica extracts

Extracts Animals tested Administration routes LD50 (mg/kg) References
Leaves Hydo-alcoholic Mice Oral 5770 [56]
Aqueous Mice Intraperitoneal 3500 [72]
Root Hydo-alcoholic Rats Intraperitoneal 600 [82]
Aqueous Rats Intravenous 1721 [81]
Infusion Rats Intravenous 1929 [81]
Infusion Rats Oral >1310 [81]
Seeds Fixed oil Mice Intraperitoneal >12.8 [83]

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Modes of use and use precautions Used in mouthwash, nettle is also effective against oral infections
such as aphtha, gingivitis and tonsillitis [86]. External preparations
Nettle is used by oral and local routes. The most frequently used like fresh nettle poultices are used in cases of acne and to alleviate
preparations in herbal medicine are the total dry powder, dry arthritic and rheumatic pain [86].
extracts, infusions, decoctions and the fresh nettle juice.
Nettle preparations are also applied externally in hair care against
Orally, aerial parts are used as diuretics and also in the treatment of
dandruff and oily hair. Furthermore, the nettle roots, alone or
arthritis, rheumatism and gout. Nettle teas are also used in the
associated with saw palmetto (Serenoa repens), are used as teas or
treatment of rhinitis and seasonal allergies [84].
extracts in mictional disorders due to benign prostatic hyperplasia
Thanks to their high content of iron and trace elements, nettle leaves [85].
infusions, tinctures or fresh juices are prescribed to treat anemia and
The adherence to dosage recommendations is essential. The
also for asthenia, convalescence and demineralization states. In
association with the marigold (Calendula officinalis) and curled dock recommended adult dosage of the dried aerial parts is 1.2 to 18g per
(Rumex crispus), nettle leaves are used for the treatment of chronic skin day. For fresh juice, the recommended dose is 15 to 45 ml per day.
conditions such as eczema, psoriasis and hives [85]. Nettle fresh juice has Dosages for the dried root preparations are 0.3 to 24g per day.
a hemostatic effect on the skin and nasal bleeding. It also overcomes the Recommended dosages and frequency of administration for each
heavy periods or menorrhagias by reducing their flow [85]. type of preparations are shown in table 6.

Table 6: Recommended doses of Urtica dioica extracts

Parts used Preparation Recommended doses References
Dried aerial parts Dry powder 6 à 12 g, per day [87]
8 à 12 g, 2 à 3 times daily [84]
2 à 5 g, 3 times daily [88]
3 à 6 g, 3 times daily [89]
Infusion 6 à 12 g, per day [87]
3 à 5 g, 1 à 3 times daily [84]
2 à 5 g, 3 times daily [88]
3 à 6 g, 3 times daily [89]
Decoction 2 à 5 g, 3 times daily [88]
Liquid extract 6 à 12 g, per day [87]
(Dry weight equivalent) 2 à 5 g, 3 times daily [84]
2 à 4 g, 3 times daily [89]
Tincture 1.4 à 2.8 g, per day [87]
(Dry weight equivalent) 0.5 à 1g, 3 times daily [90]
0.4 à 1.2g, 3 times daily [88]
Fresh aerial parts Fresh juice 15 ml, 1 à 3 times daily [84]
Dry powder 0.3 à 0.6 g, per day [91]
4 à 6 g, per day [87]
Infusion 4 à 6 g, per day [87]
4 à 6 g, 3 à 4 times daily [84]
Decoction 4 à 6 g, per day [87]
4 à 6 g, 3 à 4 times daily [84]
Liquid extract 1.5 à 7.5 g, per day [87]
(Dry weight equivalent) 4.5 à 7.5 g, per day [84]
1 à 1.5g, 3 times daily [88]
Dry extract 2.1 à 8.4 g, per day [84]
(Dry weight equivalent) 4.5 à 12.1 g, per day [88]
Dried roots Tincture 3 g, per day [84]
(Dry weight equivalent) 0.5 à 1g, 3 times daily [90]
1 à 1.5g, 3 à 4 times daily [88]

Despite having anti allergic properties, nettle may cause allergies in ulcer, immunostimulating, anti-infectious, anti-hypertensive and
sensitive people. Some rare hypersensitivity reactions like hives, also as protective against cardiovascular diseases.
itching, edema, oliguria and gastralgia have been reported [92, 93].
In addition, and in regard to its richness in protein, minerals and
Furthermore, the use of nettle orally is contraindicated in pregnant vitamins, the stinging nettle provides a proven great nutritional value.
women because of the risk of abortion [94] and in children under 12
because of a lack of clinical studies in this area [1]. In the perspective of a large medical use, several clinical trials
conducted in humans, confirmed these pharmacological and
CONCLUSION nutritional properties. And many toxicological studies proved that
nettle can be considered safe since significant doses, administered
Notorious for its unpleasant irritant effects, stinging nettle is actually orally in humans, showed no side effects.
rich in vitamins and minerals and possesses many medicinal
properties. During the last decades, several studies have focused on CONFLICT OF INTERESTS
the pharmacological properties and the analysis of the chemical
Declared None
composition of this plant.
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