What is Stinging Nettle? A Review of Benefits, Side Effects, and Dosage

Almost everyone has an allergy to something. It can be from food, dust, too much cold, too much heat, medications, and so much more. Our first aid remedy is to take anti-histamines. This is what almost all people do. However, drugstore medications usually contain chemicals that are not really good for our body. We can’t help it since it comes with the cure that we need.
But little did we know, there is a natural cure for allergies. If you have heard about the Stinging Nettle plant, then you know what I’m talking about. But if this sounds foreign to you, do not worry. We will talk about a review of benefits, side effects, and dosage of this wonderful natural allergy relief remedy.

The Stinging Nettle

The Stinging Nettle (Urtica dioica), is a perennial flowering plant which was traditionally used in medical scenarios even in the ancient Greece. But today, stinging nettle can already be found in all parts of the world but originally, this plant is from the colder regions of Europe and Asia. You can usually find this plant standing 2 or 3 feet tall with heart-shaped leaves and has yellow or pink flowers. This usually blooms from June to September. It can grow in nitrogen-rich soils.

The Stinging Nettle Plant Benefits

This plant is not only known for the stinging sensation when the human skin comes in contact with the fine hairs of the leaves and stems, this is also a source of useful health benefits when processed for medicinal purposes. The Stinging Nettle products are usually made from the stems and leaves
The roots of the plant are proven to have pharmacological qualities. This herb is claimed to have anti-inflammatory capabilities. The part of the plants above the ground can help in allergy relief as well as other breathing related problems. Aside from that, the roots can also help people suffering from urinary disorders and enlarged prostate.

The Safe Way to Use The Stinging Nettle

When you purchase from the local health food stores, the stinging nettle usually comes in dried or frozen-dried leaf form, extract, capsules, tablets, juice, tea, or root tincture. There is no recommended dose since the products have different amounts of the active ingredients. It is best to consult your doctor for you to determine the exact dosage for you.

The Possible Side Effects with Stinging Nettle Use

This herb is very well known for its healing capabilities. However, if not used responsibly, overuse and misuse can also lead to potential side effects. Here are some of the things that you should take note of using the Stinging Nettle plant.

Dangerous for Surgery. If you have a scheduled surgery, you should not use this product as it delays blood clotting.
Can decrease the blood sugar levels which is bad for diabetic patients.
It lowers blood pressure which can have an interaction with medications for decreasing your blood pressure.
Insomnia and drowsiness.

Stinging nettle can be used directly from the plant itself, or you can also find processed stinging nettle products from the local health food stores. However, before you make the purchase, it is important that you know why you need it, and which part of the plant will you be needing. This is because the aboveground parts have different pharmacological qualities from the roots of the plant.