Nettle Root and Women's Hormonal Health

Nettle Root and Hormones: A Natural Ally for Women’s Endocrine Health and PCOS Support

For many, encountering the sting of Stinging Nettle (Urtica dioica) during outdoor adventures is an unforgettable experience. While this plant is often remembered for its prickly touch, fewer people are familiar with its profound therapeutic value. Nettle Leaf has long been celebrated for its benefits, particularly in supporting women’s health. However, Nettle Root—a lesser-known part of the plant—is now gaining well-deserved recognition for its ability to promote hormonal balance and assist in managing conditions such as Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS).

Nettle’s Rich History in Herbal Medicine

For centuries, Nettle has held an esteemed place in traditional medicine across regions like Asia, Europe, and South Africa. Today, its powerful benefits are being rediscovered, and its use is growing in the United States as more people—both women and men—turn to Nettle Leaf and Nettle Root for their wide-ranging health applications.

With over 2,000 years of documented use, Nettle stands as a pillar in Western herbalism, frequently paired with herbs like Dandelion Leaf and Root as part of spring tonics. Despite its long-standing reputation in holistic medicine, the plant’s infamous sting has, unfortunately, led many to overlook its immense value as both a nutritional and medicinal resource.

A Misunderstood Plant with Powerful Benefits

Is Nettle just a bothersome weed, or does it offer untapped potential in natural wellness? Emerging research confirms that Nettle is a potent phytotherapeutic herb and a functional food with remarkable properties. Through careful study, we’ve come to understand the significant role Nettle Root can play in supporting women’s hormonal health, particularly in the context of managing PCOS.

In the sections that follow, we will explore how this often-underappreciated herb can help foster hormonal balance and contribute to overall well-being.

The Ethnobotany of Nettle: Nettle Leaf and Nettle Root in Traditional Medicine

A Global History of Nettle’s Medicinal Uses

Nettle (Urtica dioica), commonly known as Stinging Nettle, has been revered for thousands of years across various cultures for its healing and nourishing properties. From its leaves to its roots and stems, Nettle has been a cornerstone in traditional medicine systems around the world, recognized for its versatile ability to support overall health and well-being.

Nettle in Classical and Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicine

In both Classical and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Nettle—particularly Nettle Seed—is highly valued for its tonifying properties. According to TCM, Nettle helps to nurture and protect Yang energy while supporting and preserving Yuan (Jing), the vital essence stored in the kidneys. Jing embodies both Kidney Yang and Kidney Yin, and maintaining a harmonious balance between these two forces is seen as essential for overall health and longevity.

Within this system, Nettle is often included in herbal formulations aimed at restoring the delicate equilibrium between Yin and Yang—the complementary energies that regulate the body’s vitality. As such, Nettle Seed is commonly incorporated into remedies intended to support kidney function, reproductive health, and sustained vitality throughout life.

Nettle in Ayurvedic Medicine

In Ayurveda, the traditional system of medicine from India, Nettle is celebrated for its nourishing and rejuvenating properties. Referred to as "Vrishya" in Ayurvedic texts, Nettle is considered an herb with aphrodisiac qualities, believed to enhance strength and vitality. It is also classified as a cooling herb, which helps balance the body’s doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—the fundamental energies that regulate physiological functions.

Ayurvedic practitioners often recommend Nettle to promote Ojas, the vital energy that sustains life, underpins immunity, and fosters vitality. This makes Nettle especially beneficial for individuals recovering from illness, as it supports overall resilience. Additionally, Nettle is highly regarded in Ayurveda for its role in promoting kidney and adrenal health, aiding detoxification, and supporting healthy skin.

Nettle in Egyptian and European Traditions

In ancient Egypt, Nettle was highly regarded for its anti-inflammatory properties. Egyptians often prepared Nettle infusions to help alleviate conditions such as arthritis pain, fatigue, and swelling.

Similarly, the medicinal potential of Nettle was recognized by the Greeks and Romans. Prominent Greek physicians, including Hippocrates and Galen, recommended Nettle for a wide range of health concerns. It was commonly used as a diuretic and to address issues such as menstrual disorders, asthma, and chest pain.

Nettle in Medieval and Renaissance Europe

During the Middle Ages, Nettle became a key element in European herbal medicine, commonly used from the 5th to 10th centuries to treat ailments such as shingles, constipation, and various skin and lung disorders. Its therapeutic value continued to expand during the Renaissance (14th to 17th centuries), as herbalists began recommending it for a broader range of conditions.

By the 16th to 19th centuries, Nettle was well-established in European herbal medicine for its effectiveness in treating conditions such as:

• Poisoning
• Skin infections
• Gout
• Kidney stones
• Eczema

Beyond its medicinal uses, Nettle also served as a valuable food source. Its leaves were boiled or steamed and consumed as a vegetable, providing essential nutrients. This was especially important during times of scarcity when other food sources were limited.

Nettle in Native American Traditions

Among various Native American tribes, Nettle was highly regarded for its medicinal and practical uses. The Lakota and Ojibwa tribes, in particular, used Nettle to treat skin conditions, joint pain, and fevers. It was also consumed as a spring tonic, with the leaves boiled or steamed to neutralize the sting and harness its nourishing properties. Beyond its medicinal applications, Nettle fibers were traditionally used to craft cordage, nets, and textiles, showcasing its versatility in daily life.

Nettle in Scandinavian Folk Medicine and Textiles

In Nordic and Scandinavian traditions, Nettle was valued not only for its medicinal properties but also for its role in textile production. In folk medicine, it was commonly used to treat ailments such as gout, arthritis, and respiratory issues. Historically, Nettle fibers were spun into cloth, with evidence suggesting their use in Viking burial shrouds—highlighting Nettle’s versatility and importance in both health and daily life.

Nettle in Eastern European Folk Medicine

In Eastern Europe, Nettle has been an integral part of traditional folk medicine, used to address conditions like anemia, gastrointestinal issues, and bleeding disorders. In Slavic cultures, Nettle was also considered a protective herb, often woven into wreaths or hung in homes to ward off evil spirits, reflecting its symbolic and medicinal significance in the region.

Nettle in the Modern German Pharmacopoeia (DAB)

In modern times, Nettle continues to be highly regarded, particularly in Germany, where it has been officially recognized in the German Pharmacopoeia (DAB). This inclusion reflects Nettle’s well-established role in contemporary herbal medicine ^[1]. Germany’s respected Kooperation Phytopharmaka, an authority on medicinal plants, has also featured Nettle in its *Encyclopaedia of Medicinal Plants*, underscoring the plant’s continued relevance and therapeutic value.

Furthermore, German health authorities have approved the use of Nettle Root for specific conditions, including prostate disorders, rheumatism, and kidney infections, affirming its place in modern medicinal practices ^[2].

Today, Nettle is recognized globally for its broad range of therapeutic applications. It is commonly used for its anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties, as well as a nutritional supplement. Whether in traditional herbal remedies or contemporary formulations, Nettle remains a key component of both natural and integrative approaches to health.

The Botany of Nettle

What Are Nettle Leaf and Nettle Root, and Why Are They Important?

Commonly known as Stinging Nettle or Common Nettle, this herbaceous perennial belongs to the Urticaceae family and is native to Europe, Asia, northern Africa, and North America. Over time, it has become naturalized in many regions worldwide. In the United States, Nettle is sometimes referred to as Tall Nettle, California Nettle, or Slender Nettle, depending on regional variations and subspecies.

Classification and Species

The genus Urtica includes around 25 species, with Urtica dioica being the most widespread and extensively studied. In the U.S., Urtica dioica is the predominant species, known for its vigorous growth and adaptability across diverse environments.

Habitat and Distribution

Nettle thrives in a variety of ecosystems throughout the U.S., from temperate regions in the Pacific Northwest to parts of Canada and as far south as Mexico^[3]. It favors moist, nutrient-rich soils and is often found in marshes, meadows, and along the edges of forests or waterways. Nettle is also known to colonize disturbed ecosystems, such as areas affected by logging or construction, where it can quickly establish and spread.

Morphology of the Nettle Plant

A mature Nettle plant can grow up to four feet or more in height, which is why it is sometimes called Tall Nettle. Its leaves are opposite, ovate, and serrated, creating a distinctive texture. Both the leaves and stems are covered in stinging hairs called trichomes, which contain irritants like formic acid and histamine. These trichomes serve as a defense mechanism, deterring herbivores and protecting the plant from damage.

Reproductive Structures and Pollination

Nettle’s flowers are small and inconspicuous, ranging from green to yellow, and grow in axillary clusters. The plant is wind-pollinated. As a dioecious species, Urtica dioica has separate male and female plants, with each producing distinct reproductive structures. This sexual dimorphism contributes to the plant’s reproductive success and widespread distribution.

The Stinging Mechanism

The well-known sting of the Nettle is caused by its trichomes. These hollow, silica-based hairs break upon contact and inject a mixture of histamine, formic acid, acetylcholine, and other compounds into the skin, resulting in the characteristic stinging sensation. However, once the plant is dried or cooked, these compounds are neutralized, making Nettle safe to handle and consume.

Nutritional Profile of Nettle Leaf

Nettle Leaf is widely recognized for its rich nutritional properties, making it a valuable food source and a popular ingredient in herbal teas. It is especially appreciated for its ability to support overall well-being, including promoting healthy skin, hair, and nails. Additionally, Nettle Leaf is a notable source of essential vitamins, minerals, and beneficial compounds.

• Protein content: Nettle Leaf contains approximately twice as much protein as spinach and parsley ^[4].
• Amino acids: It provides a richer source of essential amino acids than Brussels sprouts and contains nearly as many essential amino acids as almonds (by weight). Nettle is particularly abundant in threonine, valine, isoleucine, leucine, phenylalanine, and lysine.
• Healthy fats: Nettle leaves, seeds, stems, and roots contain heart-healthy fats, including oleic, linoleic, and alpha-linolenic acids, which contribute to cardiovascular health.
• Phenolic compounds: One gram of Nettle Leaf powder contains twice the phenolic content of 100 mL of cranberry juice. These phenolic compounds, found in many fruits and vegetables, exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, anticancer, antihypertensive, anti-arthritic, and antimicrobial properties ^[5].
• Vitamin K content: A 100 g serving of raw Stinging Nettle Leaf contains 499 micrograms of vitamin K, making it one of the richest plant sources of this essential nutrient ^[6].
• Mineral content: Nettle leaves are a concentrated source of vital minerals, including calcium, potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, sulfur, zinc, manganese, copper, nickel, and selenium ^[4].

Nettle’s Rich Therapeutic Compounds

In addition to its nutritional value, Nettle contains a diverse range of medicinal compounds. The concentration and composition of these compounds can vary based on factors such as the plant’s origin, time of harvest, and the specific parts of the plant used.

Therapeutic Compounds in Nettle Stems and Leaves (Aerial parts)^[7]:

• Flavonoids: Rutin and rutinoside
• Organic Acids: Caffeic acid, ferulic acid, chlorogenic acid, citric acid, and fumaric acid
• Essential Oils: Carvacrol, naphthalene, and phytol
• Other Compounds: Chlorophyll, tannins, and carotenoids (precursors to vitamin A)

While Nettle Leaf is well-known in U.S. herbalism, the therapeutic potential of Stinging Nettle Root is less commonly recognized. Typically harvested in the fall before the ground freezes, Nettle Root is particularly valued for its role in supporting hormonal health, which will be discussed in the following sections.

Therapeutic Compounds in Nettle Root (Subterranean parts):

• Amino Acids: Glycine, cysteine, and tryptophan
• Flavonoids: Myricetin, quercetin, kaempferol, and rutin
• Phytosterols: β-sitosterol, 7β-hydroxysitosterol, 7α-hydroxysitosterol, and stigmasterol

An Introduction to Hormones and the Endocrine System

Understanding how the endocrine system functions is crucial for appreciating the role that Nettle Root can play in phytotherapy. Nettle Root has been traditionally used to support hormonal health, particularly by influencing hormones produced by the adrenal glands and those related to sexual function. By learning about the key processes governed by the endocrine system, readers can better understand how herbs like Nettle Root may aid in balancing hormones, supporting reproductive health, and contributing to overall well-being.

Hormones are chemical messengers produced by the endocrine glands, which together form the endocrine system. This complex system regulates critical bodily functions, including:

• Growth and metabolism
• Sexual function
• Reproduction
• Heart rate and blood pressure
• Appetite
• Sleep-wake cycles
• Body temperature

Key endocrine glands include:

• The pituitary gland, which produces hormones that regulate other glands, including those responsible for sex hormone production in both women and men
• The thyroid gland, which produces thyroid hormones to regulate metabolism and energy levels
• The adrenal glands, which produce sex hormones, the stress hormone cortisol, and contribute to the body’s stress response
• The pancreas, which produces insulin to control blood sugar levels

After being released from a gland, hormones enter the bloodstream and travel to target tissues or cells in the body. These cells have specific receptors that identify and bind to the hormone, regulating functions specific to those receptors. For example, insulin prompts muscle and fat cells to absorb sugar from the bloodstream.

Nettle Root, Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin, and Aromatase

Nettle Root plays a crucial role in balancing and modulating hormone levels by influencing two important substances: Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin (SHBG) and Aromatase. Understanding how Nettle Root interacts with these substances is key to appreciating its potential in supporting hormonal health.

Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin (SHBG)

SHBG is a protein produced by the liver that binds to and transports three key hormones in both men and women: estrogen, dihydrotestosterone (DHT), and testosterone. Of these, testosterone is the most clinically significant.

High SHBG levels reduce the availability of testosterone to tissues, which can result in decreased sexual desire and satisfaction in women. In men, low testosterone levels caused by high SHBG may lead to erectile dysfunction and impaired libido.

On the other hand, low SHBG levels can indicate abnormally high testosterone levels. In women, elevated testosterone levels are often linked to conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), while in men, they may contribute to aggression, depression, irritability, hair loss, and prostate enlargement.

Aromatase

Aromatase is an enzyme that converts testosterone into estrogen. While this conversion is a normal and necessary process, elevated aromatase activity can accelerate testosterone depletion and lead to increased estrogen production. Dysregulation of this balance can result in either excessive estrogen or insufficient testosterone.

In men, high aromatase levels are associated with gynecomastia (breast enlargement). In women, excessive aromatase activity can disrupt menstrual cycles and contribute to hormonal imbalances.

The Role of Estrogen in the Health of Women and Men

Estrogen is often recognized as a female sex hormone, but it plays a vital role in both women’s and men’s health. In women, estrogen is primarily produced by the ovaries and is essential for regulating sexual function, reproductive health, and the development of female characteristics.

Low estrogen levels in women can lead to symptoms such as hot flashes, mood disturbances, vaginal dryness, and premature skin aging. Conversely, elevated estrogen levels—sometimes referred to as estrogen dominance—can result in breast tenderness, irregular menstrual cycles, mood swings, and memory difficulties.

Though estrogen is commonly associated with women, it also plays a critical role in men’s health. Estradiol, the most active form of estrogen, is crucial for regulating libido, supporting erectile function, and promoting healthy sperm production in men ^[8].

However, excess estrogen in men can contribute to conditions such as infertility, gynecomastia (enlarged breast tissue), and erectile dysfunction.

How Does Nettle Root Help with Hormone Balance in Women?

Nettle Root provides crucial support for women’s hormone health by regulating and balancing the endocrine system. Its benefits extend beyond typical hormonal health supplements, as it works through key pathways to manage hormone production, modulation, and the breakdown of hormones.

Why Is Hormonal Balance Critical for Women?

Women experience more significant hormonal fluctuations than men due to factors such as the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, menopause, breastfeeding, and the use of birth control pills. These fluctuations can cause hormonal imbalances, particularly involving excess estrogen, which has been linked to an increased risk of developing breast cancer ^[9].

Research indicates that prolonged exposure to high estrogen levels is associated with an elevated breast cancer risk. This risk is further heightened in cases where menstruation starts early or menopause is delayed, leading to longer estrogen exposure.

Nettle Root and Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin (SHBG)

Optimizing Sex Hormone Levels

Nettle Root influences hormone health by modulating the activity of Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin (SHBG). SHBG is a protein that binds to sex hormones like estrogen and testosterone, regulating their availability to tissues.

Nettle Root helps optimize SHBG levels, balancing hormone availability. High SHBG levels reduce the hormones available for tissue use, while low SHBG levels can result in an excess of free hormones, leading to hormonal imbalances. Nettle Root helps maintain this balance, ensuring hormones are available where needed and excess hormones are removed.

Additionally, Nettle Root impacts the enzyme aromatase, which converts testosterone into estradiol. By inhibiting aromatase, Nettle Root helps prevent excessive estrogen—especially harmful forms of estradiol—which have been linked to hormone-related cancers.

Nettle Root’s Dual Action in Hormone Health

One of Nettle Root’s most remarkable features is its dual action in regulating hormones. It helps by:

1. Supporting hormone production when levels are low, such as during menopause or periods of hormonal imbalance.
2. Reducing hormone release when the body already has sufficient levels, preventing hormonal excess that could lead to estrogen dominance.

Nettle Root for Managing Aromatase and Estradiol

Nettle Root’s influence on aromatase activity is particularly important for women, as it reduces the harmful effects of excessive estrogen by minimizing the production of certain estrogen metabolites. Aromatization—the conversion of testosterone into estradiol—can contribute to hormone-related cancers like breast and uterine cancer.

By lowering the production of these estrogen metabolites, Nettle Root supports cancer prevention and may serve as a complementary therapy for managing hormone-related cancers.

Conventional Medicine and Aromatase Inhibitors

In conventional medicine, aromatase inhibitors are prescribed to manage estrogen levels, particularly in the treatment of hormone-receptor-positive breast cancer. Drugs like Arimidex (anastrozole), Aromasin (exemestane), and Femara (letrozole) work by lowering estradiol (E2) levels through aromatase inhibition.

Interestingly, Nettle Root has a similar mechanism of action to these pharmaceutical inhibitors. Its active compound, β-Sitosterol, inhibits the aromatase process, making Nettle Root a natural alternative for supporting healthy estradiol levels and maintaining hormonal balance.

Nettle Root and Aromatase: Blocking Aromatase Activity

Aromatase is vital for converting testosterone into estradiol (E2) in both men and women. While some estradiol is necessary, excessive levels can contribute to conditions and diseases, including hormone-dependent cancers.

In women, excessive aromatase activity is linked to:

• Early menarche (first period)
• Irregular menstrual cycles
• Enlarged uterus
• Uterine bleeding ^[10].

The β-Sitosterol in Nettle Root shows potent aromatase inhibitory activity ^[11], reducing the conversion of testosterone to estradiol and helping maintain healthy estradiol levels. This action is one reason Nettle Root is included in the German Pharmacopoeia (DAB), recognized for its therapeutic effects on hormone balance.

Aromatase Inhibitors in Breast Cancer Treatment

In postmenopausal women, aromatase inhibitors are highly effective in treating hormone-receptor-positive breast cancer ^[12]. Nettle Root’s natural ability to inhibit aromatase provides a complementary approach, especially for those seeking to manage estrogen levels more naturally.

A study by Italian researchers further supports Nettle Root’s potential, suggesting that the flavonoids found in Nettle may help prevent or reduce cancer risk ^[13].

Nettle Root and Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is the leading cause of infertility in women of childbearing age, and its symptoms can significantly disrupt daily life. Women with PCOS typically have elevated levels of male hormones (androgens), particularly testosterone, which leads to hormonal imbalances that cause symptoms such as irregular periods, acne, and excess hair growth (hirsutism). Many women with PCOS also struggle with infertility due to disrupted ovulation.

How Nettle Root May Help Manage and Relieve PCOS Symptoms

PCOS is not just a reproductive condition; if left untreated or poorly managed, it can lead to serious health complications, including type 2 diabetes and heart disease. As its prevalence rises, there is growing interest in natural treatments, including the use of Nettle Root to manage PCOS symptoms.

In clinical practice, herbalists and naturopathic doctors are increasingly incorporating Nettle Root into treatment protocols for PCOS (also referred to as Polycystic Ovarian Disorder or PCOD). Linda Crockett, author of "Healing Our Hormones, Healing Our Lives,” includes Nettle Root in her formulas for addressing PCOS, highlighting its emerging role in alternative medicine.

Understanding the Symptoms of PCOS and Nettle Root’s Role

PCOS is one of the most common endocrine disorders affecting women, with far-reaching impacts. A defining characteristic of PCOS is anovulation—the absence of ovulation—which results in irregular or absent menstruation (amenorrhea), leading to ovulation-related infertility and polycystic ovaries.

PCOS also leads to overproduction of androgens (male sex hormones), causing symptoms such as acne and excessive hair growth. Additionally, PCOS is linked to insulin resistance, which can result in obesity, type 2 diabetes, and high cholesterol. Nettle Root shows promise in addressing several of these symptoms, making it a valuable option for PCOS management.

The Three Characteristic Features of PCOS

The primary diagnostic features of PCOS include:

• Multiple (poly) cysts in the ovaries
• Excess male hormones (hyperandrogenism)
• Irregular menstrual cycles

A 2014 study demonstrated that women who took 300-600 mg of dried Nettle Root extract over 16 weeks experienced significant improvements in their PCOS symptoms ^[14]. These improvements included:

• Reductions in free testosterone levels
• Improvements in menstrual regularity and acne

Nettle Root May Help Control Blood Sugar and Reduce Heart Disease Risk

In addition to its effects on hormone regulation, Nettle Root may also play a role in blood sugar control and reducing the risk of heart disease—two common complications associated with PCOS. According to the Office on Women’s Health, about 1 in 9 adult women in the U.S. has diabetes ^[15], and insulin resistance is a common feature of PCOS. Nettle Root contains flavonoids, tannins, and carotenoids, which exhibit antioxidant and glucose-lowering properties ^[16].

The primary flavonoid in Nettle Root, quercetin, has been shown to help reduce total cholesterol levels. This means that Nettle Root not only supports blood sugar control but may also help prevent high cholesterol, addressing two of the most critical risks associated with PCOS.

How to Use Nettle Leaf and Nettle Root

At RAW Forest Foods, we believe Nettle Root is more than just a supplement—it’s an ally on your journey toward optimal health. Nettle Root offers adaptogenic and tonic effects, gently supporting the endocrine system and helping your body maintain its natural, healthy equilibrium. Unlike other herbs that may introduce phytoandrogens or phytoestrogens, Nettle Root works harmoniously with your body, regulating hormone levels without overstimulating any particular process.

In this way, Nettle Root serves as an essential, first-line herbal remedy, offering steady and reliable support for overall wellness. Like a trusted friend, Nettle Root provides grounding and calm when your body requires extra care and attention, helping you feel balanced and supported at all times.

Simple and Rewarding Ways to Use Nettle

Incorporating Nettle into your daily routine is both simple and rewarding. You can prepare a nourishing herbal tea by steeping dried Nettle leaves in boiling water. For added flavor, sweeten with honey or sprinkle in a touch of cinnamon. You can also use Nettle extract powder, stirring it into hot water for a quick and effective infusion. Whether enjoyed as a tea or taken in extract form, Nettle offers a soothing, health-supporting experience you can embrace anytime.

Moving Forward: What to Consider

Considerations for Adding Nettle Root to Your Daily Routine

While Nettle Root is a potent herb with numerous health benefits, it’s important to consider a few key factors when incorporating it into your routine. Though generally safe, some individuals may experience mild side effects such as diarrhea, constipation, or nausea. These effects are typically mild and tend to resolve on their own without intervention.

Allergic reactions to Nettle Root are rare, but as with any herb, it’s essential to monitor how your body responds when you first begin using it. To minimize potential side effects, it’s recommended to start with the lowest dose and gradually increase as your body adjusts.

There is no universally established daily dose for Nettle Root. However, commonly tolerated doses include:

• 4 g of the whole herb (steeped for 10 minutes in hot water), taken 3 to 4 times a day.
• 770 mg of dried extract taken orally twice a day.

As always, it’s best to consult your healthcare provider before using Nettle Root if you have underlying conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, or kidney disease. Additionally, Nettle Root is not recommended for children, pregnant women, or nursing mothers.

Highlights

• Nettle Root is among the most effective herbs for balancing hormone levels in both men and women.
• It has demonstrated promising results in alleviating symptoms of estrogen toxicity, PCOS, and high cholesterol.
• Nettle is also one of the richest plant sources of protein, vitamin K, essential amino acids, and a wide array of vitamins.
• Susan Weed, a respected herbalist and author, recommends Nettle Root for various applications, including as a hair and scalp tonic, a urinary strengthener, an immune system and lymphatic stimulant, and a first-aid remedy.

Product Resources

If you’re considering adding Nettle Root to your herbal regimen, the following products provide a variety of Nettle Root extracts to suit your specific needs:

Extract Powders

• Nettle Root Extract Powder
• Forest Prana Elixir Pine Pollen and Nettle Root Powder

Capsules

• Elevated β-Sitosterol and Swedish Flower Pollen Extract Capsules
• Mountain Alchemy Pine Pollen Elixir Capsules
• Forest Prana Elixir Pine Pollen and Nettle Root Capsules

Tinctures

• Forest Prana Elixir Pine Pollen and Nettle Root Tincture
  • Forest Prana Elixir Pine Pollen and Nettle Root Tincture 2 Ounce Bottle
  • Forest Prana Elixir Pine Pollen and Nettle Root Tincture 4 Ounce Bottle
• Mountain Alchemy Pine Pollen Elixir Tincture
  • Mountain Alchemy Pine Pollen Elixir Tincture 2 Ounce Bottle
  • Mountain Alchemy Pine Pollen Elixir Tincture 4 Ounce Bottle

Nettle Leaf and Nettle Root FAQs

Does Nettle Root Block Estrogen?

Yes, Nettle Root can help inhibit estrogen production by blocking the enzyme aromatase ^[17]. Aromatase is responsible for converting testosterone into estrogen, and excess estrogen can lead to symptoms such as breast lumps, irregular periods, and decreased libido. This makes Nettle Root particularly useful for those looking to manage estrogen dominance naturally.

Is Nettle Root Good for Thyroid Health?

Nettle Root supports thyroid health by preventing abnormal thyroid cell growth and increasing levels of triiodothyronine (T3), an essential thyroid hormone ^{[18] [19]}.

Does Nettle Root Tea Balance Hormones?

Yes, Nettle is recognized for its hormone-balancing properties, aiding in the regulation of estrogen, thyroid hormones, and testosterone. Whether consumed as a supplement or in tea form, it provides a natural approach to supporting endocrine health.

Does Nettle Root Increase Testosterone?

Yes, Nettle Root can naturally increase testosterone levels by inhibiting the enzyme that converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT) ^[20]. By limiting this conversion, Nettle Root helps maintain healthy testosterone levels, which is crucial for hormonal balance in both men and women.

Is It Safe to Drink Nettle Leaf Tea Every Day?

In general, Nettle Leaf tea is considered safe for daily use over extended periods. However, if you have underlying health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, or kidney disorders, it’s advisable to consult your healthcare provider before incorporating it into your routine. While regular use of Nettle tea may support overall wellness, it’s important to monitor how your body responds and adjust your intake as necessary.

What Are the Side Effects of Using Nettle Leaf or Nettle Root?

Nettle is generally considered safe for most people when used appropriately. However, some may experience mild digestive issues such as diarrhea, constipation, nausea, or vomiting, especially when first starting. These side effects are typically short-lived and subside as the body adjusts to the herb.

To minimize potential discomfort, it’s recommended to begin with a low dose and gradually increase as your body adapts. If you have any pre-existing health conditions or are on medication, consult with your healthcare provider before incorporating Nettle into your routine.

Citations and Additional Resources

Stinging Nettle (Kooperation Phytopharmaka).

Stinging Nettle (Medicinal Plants of the Northeast).

Plant Data Sheet Urtica dioica (USDA-NRCS The PLANTS Database).

Nutritional and therapeutic efficacy of Stinging Nettle – A review (The Journal of Ethnobiology and Traditional Medicine).

Urtica spp.: Ordinary Plants with Extraordinary Properties (Molecules).

Nutrient composition of selected traditional United States Northern Plains Native American plant foods (Journal of Food Composition and Analysis).

Highlights on nutritional and therapeutic value of stinging nettle (Urtica dioica) (International Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences).

The role of estradiol in male reproductive function (Asian Journal of Andrology).

Breast cancer in women (NHS).

Understanding the pathological manifestations of Aromatase Excess Syndrome: Lessons for clinical diagnosis (Expert Review of Endocrinology and Metabolism).

(10E,12Z)‐9‐Hydroxy‐10,12‐octadecadiensäure, ein Aromatase‐Hemmstoff aus dem Wurzelextrakt von Urtica dioica (Chemistry Europe).

Aromatase Inhibitors (Breastcancer.org).

Therapeutic perspectives of molecules from Urtica dioica extracts for cancer treatment (Molecules).

Therapeutic effects of stinging nettle (Urtica dioica) in women with hyperandrogenism (International Journal of Current Research and Academic Review).

Diabetes (Office on Women’s Health).

Effects ofUrtica dioica supplementation on blood lipids, hepatic enzymes, and nitric oxide levels in type 2 diabetic patients: a double-blind, randomized clinical trial (Avicenna Journal of Phytomedicine).

Natural Products as Aromatase Inhibitors (Anticancer Agents Med Chem).

Estrogen Promotes Growth of Human Thyroid Tumor Cells by Different Molecular Mechanisms (The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism).

The effects ofUrtica dioica hydroalcoholic extract on propylthiouracil-induced hypothyroidism in rats (Journal of Herbmed Pharmacology).

Ameliorative effects of stinging nettle (Urtica dioica) on testosterone-induced prostatic hyperplasia in rats (Andrologia).