Botanical Overview
Urtica dioica (folia), commonly known as Stinging Nettle or Nettle Leaf, is a member of the Urticaceae family. The primary medicinal parts used are the leaves, harvested for their therapeutic properties. Native to Europe, Asia, and North America, this plant has a longstanding history in herbal medicine traditions across the Western world and others.
Energetics
This herb is considered neutral in temperature and moistening in quality, with bitter and salty tastes. It is tonifying in nature and affects the qi and blood within the body, supporting circulation and nourishment.
Primary Actions
- Anti-inflammatory
- Diuretic
- Astringent
- Antioxidant
Indications
Western
- Benign prostatic hyperplasia symptoms
- Allergic rhinitis
- Joint pain
- Urinary tract irritation
- Mild anemia
Syndromes
- Benign prostatic hyperplasia
- Chronic inflammatory conditions
TCM
- Lower back pain
- Knee pain
- Edema
Syndromes
- Kidney and Liver blood deficiency
- Wind-Dampness Bi syndrome
Ayurveda
- Joint stiffness
- Inflammation
- Weakness
Syndromes
- Vata disorders
- Rakta dhatu dysfunction
Unani
- Dysuria
- Edema
- Inflammation
Syndromes
- Warm phlegm (balgham har) disorders
- Reeh syndrome
Constituents & Mechanisms
Urtica dioica leaves contain flavonoids, phenolic acids, kaempferol, histamine, chlorophyll, vitamin C, and various minerals. These compounds contribute anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and diuretic effects.
Dosage & Preparations
- Infusion: 2-4 g dried leaf in 150 ml water, 2-3 times daily
- Tincture: 1:5 in 40% ethanol, 2-5 mL 1-3 times daily
- Powder: 1-3 g 1-2 times daily
Safety & Contraindications
Generally safe when used appropriately, nettle leaf may cause mild gastrointestinal upset or allergic reactions, especially in individuals sensitive to stinging hairs. Caution is advised during pregnancy and lactation due to limited safety data. Potential drug interactions include additive effects with diuretics, antihypertensives, and antidiabetic medications.
Astrological Correspondences
No widely accepted planetary or elemental rulers have been reliably attributed to Urtica dioica in the credible herbal/esoteric literature.
Selected References
- Community herbal monograph on Urtica dioica L., folium (EMA/HMPC, 2014)
- Phytochemical and pharmacological profile of Urtica dioica L.: A review (Rokayya et al., 2014)
- Urtica dioica (stinging nettle) (PFAF)
- Herbal Medicine: Biomolecular and Clinical Aspects (Habtemariam, 2019)