Stinging Nettle (Urtica dioica)

INCI Name: URTICA DIOICA LEAF EXTRACT
CAS Number: 84012-40-8
EC Number: 281-685-5

Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica) is a versatile perennial herb renowned for its nutritional value and medicinal properties. 

Native to Europe, Asia, and North America, this plant has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and as a food source.

Active Compounds

Stinging nettle contains a variety of bioactive compounds, including:

• Flavonoids (quercetin, kaempferol)
• Phenolic acids
• Carotenoids
• Essential fatty acids
• Vitamins (A, C, K, B complex)
• Minerals (iron, calcium, magnesium, potassium)
• Chlorophyll
• Lectins
• Polysaccharides

Properties

Stinging nettle offers numerous health benefits:

• Anti-inflammatory: Helps reduce inflammation in conditions like arthritis
• Antioxidant: Protects cells from oxidative stress
• Diuretic: Promotes urine production and detoxification
• Analgesic: Provides pain relief
• Antiallergic: May help alleviate allergy symptoms
• Hypotensive: Potential to lower blood pressure
• Antidiabetic: May help regulate blood sugar levels

Preparation

Harvest young leaves before the plant flowers for optimal potency. Wear gloves to avoid stings. The plant can be used in various forms:

1. Tea: Steep dried leaves in hot water for 5-10 minutes
2. Tincture: Macerate fresh or dried herb in alcohol
3. Capsules: Filled with dried, powdered herb

4. Topical preparations: Creams or ointments for external use

    

Usage and Dosage

• Tea: 1-2 teaspoons of dried herb per cup, up to 3 times daily
• Tincture: 2-4 ml, 3 times daily
• Capsules: 300-500 mg, 3 times daily
•  

Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any herbal regimen.

Precautions

• May interact with blood thinners, diuretics, and diabetes medications
• Not recommended during pregnancy without medical supervision
• Can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in some individuals
• Handle fresh plants with care to avoid stings