Nettles

Nettles, or more appropriately Stinging Nettles, are a popular extract in a variety of different herbal supplements. Its use as an herbal remedy originated in medieval Europe, where it was commonly used both as a diuretic and as a way of relieving joint pain.

Today, Nettles have been linked to a variety of popular natural medicinal uses, including reducing discomfort in joints and muscles, reducing urinary problems due to an enlarged prostate, and decreasing the amount of an enzyme that has been linked to hair loss.

What are the Benefits of Nettles?

Stinging Nettles are most often used for reducing discomfort and inflammation. Whether that pain is in muscles and joints, or caused by a disease such as gout, Nettles have been shown to reduce that discomfort naturally.

Nettles have also been shown to reduce an enzyme known as 5-alpha reductase, which makes it a common ingredient in natural supplements that are used to fight hair loss. 5-alpha reductase has been shown to combine with testosterone and create a hormone known as DHT, which has been linked to both hair loss and prostate cancer. Nettles are a great complement to Saw Palmetto, and combined the two make a powerful natural force for stopping hair loss.

Nettles are also often used with urinary problems, especially with regards to an enlarged prostate. For this as well, most supplements combine Nettles with Saw Palmetto, as the two combined work well to reduce the amount of DHT the body creates.

Are Nettles Safe?

Nettles themselves are called 'Stinging' for a reason. As plants, when heavy amounts come into contact with skin, Nettles can cause rashes and irritation. However, with topical creams, although it is possible that mild irritation may occur, this irritation is rare and often tempered by other ingredients.

In supplements, Nettles have not been shown to have side effects when taken as directed. Some stomach discomfort has been reported, but the effects are not seen when Nettles are taken with food.

It is possible that Nettles interacts with blood pressure drugs and blood thinners, so if either of those are taken one should contact their doctor before taking Nettles. In addition, Nettles are not recommended for pregnant women.

There are a variety of children's supplements that contain Nettles, however 'safe' levels have not yet been established for children, so a doctor should be contacted before giving a Nettles supplement to a child.