Artemis Herbal Remedies Database

Urtica dioica

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Botanical Overview

Urtica dioica, commonly known as stinging nettle or common nettle, belongs to the Urticaceae family. It is widespread across Europe, North America, Asia, and Northern Africa. The primary parts used medicinally include the leaf, root, and seed. Historically valued for its versatility, nettle has a long tradition of use in Western herbalism.

Energetics

Urtica dioica is considered cooling and moistening in temperature and moisture, with tastes described as bitter, astringent, and salty. Its medicinal action is ascending and outward in directionality, tonifying in nature, and primarily influences blood and bodily fluids (qi/blood/fluid).

Primary Actions

  • Diuretic
  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Astringent
  • Demulcent
  • Hemostatic

Indications

Western

  • Benign prostatic hyperplasia symptoms
  • Urinary tract inflammation
  • Allergic rhinitis
  • Anemia
  • Joint pain
  • Osteoarthritis

Syndromes

  • Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)
  • Chronic inflammation
  • Allergic conditions

TCM

  • Wind-damp bi pain
  • Urinary difficulties

Syndromes

  • Wind-damp obstruction syndrome

Ayurveda

  • Urinary difficulty
  • Vata disorders

Syndromes

  • Vata imbalance
  • Pitta disorders

Unani

  • Dysuria
  • Inflammation

Syndromes

  • Reeh-related disorders
  • Humoral imbalance

Constituents & Mechanisms

Notable phytochemicals in Urtica dioica include flavonoids, chlorophyll, beta-sitosterol, formic acid, histamine, acetylcholine, lectins, and minerals such as iron, silica, and potassium. These contribute to its anti-inflammatory, diuretic, and nutritive actions.

Dosage & Preparations

  • Infusion: 2–4 g leaf, 1–3 times daily
  • Tincture: 1:5 in 40% ethanol, 2–5 mL, 1–3 times daily
  • Powdered root: 300–600 mg, 1–2 times daily

Safety & Contraindications

Urtica dioica is generally well tolerated when used orally at recommended doses. Individuals allergic to nettle or related species should avoid use. Mild gastrointestinal upset may occur. Caution is advised in pregnancy and lactation due to limited safety data. Topical application can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some people. Contraindicated in hypersensitivity cases.

Astrological Correspondences

Urtica dioica is associated traditionally with the planet Mercury and the element Air, reflecting its stimulating, ascending, and diuretic qualities.

Selected References

  • European Medicines Agency (EMA) Herbal Monograph: Urticae folium and Urticae radix (2017)
  • Plants For A Future (PFAF) Database: Urtica dioica – Stinging Nettle (2019)
  • Safarinejad MR, PubMed Clinical Study on BPH (2004)
  • The Herbal Medicine-Maker’s Handbook by James Green (2014)
  • Culpepper’s Complete Herbal
  • The Way of Herbs by Michael Tierra (2010)

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