03/06/2026
TODAYS HERB OF FOCUS:
Stinging Nettle for Arthritis
Scientific name: Urtica dioica
DISEASE OF FOCUS:
Arthritis
Origin: The leaves and stem of the stinging nettle plant, a stalk-like plant found in the U.S., Canada and Europe.
Claims: Stinging nettle for arthritis reduces inflammation, aches and pains โ specifically of osteoarthritis (OA).
What we know: The antimicrobial, antioxidant, analgesic and anti-ulcer properties of stinging nettle have been studied in Germany and Turkey. Stinging nettle is high in potassium, calcium and magnesium and may be helpful for gout.
Studies: A German study shows that hox alpha, a new extract of stinging nettle leaf, contains an anti-inflammatory substance that suppressed several cytokines in inflammatory joint diseases. In a Turkish study, stinging nettle extract showed antimicrobial effects against nine microorganisms, as well as anti-ulcer and analgesic activity. Stinging nettle root extract combined with sabal fruit extract was shown to be superior to placebo for treating prostate hyperplasia (a precancerous condition) and was well tolerated.
Dosage: 1,300 mg daily; tea, 1 cup, three times a day; nettle leaf applied directly to the skin.
Precaution: May interfear with blood thinner(do not use with drugs like warfarine), may lower blood pressure, May interfear with some heart medications
Availability : herbal clinic