Nettle extract is derived from the dried whole herb of the nettle (Urticadeae) plant of the Urticaceae family, the whole plant of this plant is used in medicine, bitter, pungent, warm and with a small poison. The following is a detailed introduction to nettle extract:
1. Main components
Nettle extract is rich in a variety of active ingredients, including but not limited to ascorbic acid, acetylcholine, nettle glycosides, β-sitosterol and so on. Additionally, nettle leaves contain vitamins A, C, and K, as well as a variety of B vitamins minerals such as calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and sodium. Its fatty components include linoleic, linolenic, palmitic, stearic and oleic acids, and it is also rich in all essential amino acids as well as polyphenolic compounds such as kaempferol, quercetin, caffeic acid, coumarin and other flavonoids.
2. Pharmacological Actions
Anti-inflammatory activity: Studies have shown that nettle extract has significant anti-inflammatory activity and can be used to treat inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis. In Germany, nettle leaf extract “Rheumatan” is based on its anti-inflammatory activity and made one of the commonly used drugs.
Antioxidant: Various components of nettle extract have antioxidant properties, which protect the body’s cells from damage caused by free radicals, thus maintaining the health of organs such as the liver.
Diuretic effect: Nettle extract acts as a natural diuretic that helps the body to excrete excess salt and water, which helps to lower blood pressure.
Other effects: nettle extract also has a variety of pharmacological effects such as hemostatic, expectorant, lactation, etc., and is widely used in Europe and other places to treat a variety of diseases.
3. Clinical application
In China, nettle extract is used for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, postpartum convulsions, pediatric convulsions, post-polio sequelae, hypertension, indigestion, bowel obstruction and other diseases. When used externally, nettle extract is used to treat the first signs of urticaria and snake bites. In addition, nettle extract is also used to treat seborrheic dermatitis, dandruff and prevent hair loss.
4. Precautions for use
Since nettle extract carries a small poison and contains irritating acidic substances, special attention needs to be paid to the dosage and usage when using it. Avoid overdose or long-term use to avoid adverse effects on the body. At the same time, for pregnant women, lactating women and children and other special groups, should be used under the guidance of a doctor.