Pronunciation: NET el

What is the most important information I should know about nettle?


What is nettle?

Nettle (or stinging nettle) is a plant also known as Bichu, Feuille d'Ortie, Graine d'Ortie, Grande Ortie, Ortie, Ortiga, Urtica, and other names.

Stinging nettle should not be confused with "white dead nettle" (Lamium album).

Nettle has been used in alternative medicine to treat hay fever, asthma, diarrhea, osteoarthritis, circulation problems, diabetes, fluid retention, symptoms of enlarged prostate, and other conditions. However, nettle has not been proven with research to be effective in treating these conditions.

It is not certain whether nettle is effective in treating any medical condition. Medicinal use of this product has not been approved by the FDA. Nettle should not be used in place of medication prescribed for you by your doctor.


Nettle may also be used for purposes not listed in this product guide.

What should I discuss with my health care provider before taking nettle?


  • high blood pressure;
  • diabetes;
  • kidney disease; or
  • a bleeding or blood clotting disorder (some parts of the nettle plant contain large amounts of vitamin K, which affects blood-clotting).

It is not known whether nettle will harm an unborn baby. However, taking nettle during pregnancy may stimulate uterine contractions and could increase your risk of miscarriage. Do not use this product if you are pregnant.

It is not known whether nettle passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this product without medical advice if you are breast-feeding a baby.


How should I take nettle?


If you choose to use nettle, use it as directed on the package or as directed by your doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. Do not use more of this product than is recommended on the label.

Do not use different forms (tablets, liquid, tincture, teas, etc) of nettle at the same time without medical advice. Using different formulations together increases the risk of an overdose.

Call your doctor if the condition you are treating with nettle does not improve, or if it gets worse while using this product.


What happens if I miss a dose?

Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra nettle to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?


What should I avoid while taking nettle?

Avoid taking nettle with other herbal/health supplements that contain vitamin K. This includes alfalfa, parsley, nettle leaves, plantain, and others.

What are the possible side effects of nettle?


Although not all side effects are known, nettle is thought to be possibly safe when taken for a short period of time (no longer than 6 months).

Common side effects may include:

  • sweating;
  • skin irritation; or
  • stomach discomfort.


What other drugs will affect nettle?

Taking nettle with any medicines that make you sleepy can worsen this effect. Ask your doctor before taking nettle with a sleeping pill, narcotic pain medicine, muscle relaxer, or medicine for anxiety, depression, or seizures.

Do not take nettle without medical advice if you are using any of the following medications:

  • lithium;
  • blood pressure medication;
  • insulin or oral diabetes medicine; or
  • warfarin (Coumadin, Jantoven).

This list is not complete. Other drugs may interact with nettle, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible interactions are listed in this product guide.

Where can I get more information?




Copyright 1996-2018 Cerner Multum, Inc. Version: 3.01. Revision date: 10/9/2014.
