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STINGING NETTLE (URTICA DIOICA) AS A SOURCE OF BIOLOGICALLY
ACTIVE SUBSTANCES IN MEDICINE
(Literature Review)
Madina Furkatovna Hikmatova
Abu Ali ibn Sina Bukhara State Medical Institute,Bukhara, Uzbekistan, 23 Gijduvan Street
Phone: +998 (65) 223-00-50 E-mail: hikmatova.madina@bsmi.uz
Abstract.
Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica) is a widely distributed medicinal plant with diverse
pharmacological properties. Due to its rich chemical composition—including vitamins,
minerals, flavonoids, and chlorophyll—it exhibits hemostatic, anti-inflammatory, diuretic,
antianemic, immunostimulating, and hypoglycemic effects. In both traditional and official
medicine, nettle is used for the treatment of anemia, bleeding, joint diseases, skin conditions,
and as part of complex therapy for diabetes mellitus. Various medicinal forms include
decoctions, infusions, juice, extracts, and herbal preparations. Despite its high efficacy, the
plant has a number of contraindications, which require caution in its use. This article
summarizes current data on the potential applications of stinging nettle in medical practice.
Keywords:
stinging nettle,
Urtica dioica
, medicinal plants, phytotherapy, hemostatic effect,
anti-inflammatory effect, anemia, diabetes mellitus, biologically active substances,
traditional medicine, vitamins, flavonoids.
Introduction
Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica) has traditionally been used in the folk medicine
of many countries as a hemostatic, anti-inflammatory, diuretic, and tonic agent. In recent
decades, interest in this plant has grown due to in-depth studies of its chemical composition
and pharmacological properties [1, 4, 8]. Nettle is rich in vitamins (C, K, and B group),
minerals (iron, calcium, zinc), flavonoids (rutin, quercetin), chlorophyll, and
polysaccharides [2, 3, 14]. Its leaves also contain phenolic compounds and lignans, which
contribute to its antioxidant and immunostimulatory activity [4, 7]. Extracts of Urtica dioica
have been shown to reduce levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α and IL-1β
by inhibiting the nuclear factor NF-κB [4, 10]. Clinical trials have demonstrated the
beneficial effects of nettle in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis [11]. A
2021 meta-analysis confirmed that nettle reduces blood glucose levels in patients with type 2
diabetes [6]. The mechanisms of action include stimulation of insulin secretion and
increased tissue sensitivity to insulin [9]. The antioxidant effect of nettle is attributed to its
high content of flavonoids and chlorophyll, which neutralize free radicals and reduce
oxidative stress [1, 10, 18]. Nettle also stimulates erythropoiesis due to its high iron and
vitamin C content, which is especially beneficial in anemia [14, 19]. Recent studies have
demonstrated the effectiveness of nettle in the treatment and prevention of: – type 2 diabetes
mellitus [6, 16, 20]; – inflammatory joint diseases [11]; – benign prostatic hyperplasia [5];–
anemias [14, 19]; – skin and allergic conditions [3, 12]. Current research focuses on
deciphering the molecular mechanisms of nettle’s effects. It has been established that
phenolic compounds in the leaves inhibit the enzymes lipoxygenase and cyclooxygenase,
resulting in reduced production of pro-inflammatory mediators such as prostaglandins [1, 4,
10]. Furthermore, Urtica dioica has demonstrated the ability to modulate alpha-glucosidase
enzyme activity, thereby lowering postprandial blood sugar levels [6, 20]. This makes it a
promising adjunct in the complex therapy of diabetes mellitus. At the molecular level, nettle
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extract also enhances the expression of antioxidant enzymes — superoxide dismutase (SOD),
catalase, and glutathione peroxidase [7, 10].
This explains its ability to reduce oxidative stress observed in chronic inflammation,
diabetes mellitus, and oncological conditions. A review of the literature has shown that
Urtica dioica extracts can inhibit the growth of tumor cells in vitro, particularly prostate,
breast, and gastric cancer cells [4, 12, 13]. Nettle flavonoids have been shown to induce
apoptosis (programmed cell death) and inhibit the proliferation of tumor cells via caspase-
dependent pathways [13]. Jahanban-Esfahlan et al. (2021) emphasize that nettle may serve
as a promising basis for the development of anticancer phytotherapeutics, especially in
combination with chemotherapeutic agents [4]. Nettle also exhibits significant antimicrobial
activity against a wide range of microorganisms, including Staphylococcus aureus,
Escherichia coli, Candida albicans, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa [12]. It has been shown
that both aqueous and alcoholic extracts inhibit bacterial growth by disrupting the cell wall
and inhibiting enzymatic systems [12, 15]. Studies have demonstrated that Urtica dioica
extract enhances the immune response by increasing the activity of macrophages, T-
lymphocytes, and natural killer (NK) cells [8]. According to Riehemann et al. (1999), nettle
inhibits the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines in monocytes and reduces the expression
of ICAM-1 — an adhesion molecule involved in inflammatory responses [4]. In addition,
nettle polysaccharides activate the humoral arm of the immune system, promoting the
production of immunoglobulins, especially IgA and IgG [9]. Due to its anti-inflammatory
and antiseptic properties, nettle is used in the treatment of skin diseases such as eczema,
acne, psoriasis, and seborrhea. In vitro studies have shown that nettle extract suppresses the
growth of Propionibacterium acnes and reduces inflammation in skin cells [10, 17]. Nettle-
based preparations are used in the form of ointments, shampoos, and tonics, especially for
oily seborrhea and hair loss. Chlorophyll and silicon found in the leaves promote tissue
regeneration and strengthen hair follicles [3, 10]. Experimental studies indicate that Urtica
dioica has hypotensive and cardioprotective effects due to vasodilation and its antioxidant
activity [6, 16]. It has been established that aqueous nettle extract lowers blood pressure in
rats with induced hypertension, presumably through activation of NO synthase and the
release of nitric oxide [7]. In addition, nettle exhibits anticoagulant effects by inhibiting
platelet aggregation and increasing antithrombin III activity, which supports its potential role
in thrombosis prevention [1, 14]. Intake of nettle extract has been shown to reduce total
cholesterol, triglycerides, and low-density lipoproteins (LDL), while increasing high-density
lipoproteins (HDL) [6, 18]. This makes it beneficial in the treatment of metabolic syndrome
and atherosclerosis. In a study by Namazi et al. (2019), administration of nettle powder
capsules in patients with hyperlipidemia over 8 weeks resulted in a statistically significant
reduction in cholesterol levels and improvement in the lipid profile [6]. Given its antioxidant,
anti-inflammatory, and metabolic regulatory properties, nettle is considered a promising
plant in the prevention of aging and age-related diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular
disorders, and sarcopenia [10, 15, 20]. It can be used in functional nutrition and dietary
supplements for the elderly. Plant-based nettle extracts also exert hepatoprotective effects
during toxic liver injury. In experimental models of liver damage induced by paracetamol
and CCl₄,
Urtica dioica
extract lowered transaminase levels (ALT, AST), bilirubin, and
alkaline phosphatase, while restoring hepatocyte structure [10, 17]. A study by Rahmati et al.
(2019) demonstrated that due to its high flavonoid and chlorophyll content, nettle reduces
lipid peroxidation in liver tissues and activates detoxification enzymes [10].
Urtica dioica
also shows protective effects on the kidneys, especially in diabetic nephropathy. Animal
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studies have shown that nettle reduces levels of urea, creatinine, and protein in urine, as well
as glomerular inflammation [6, 9]. Shabanian et al. (2022) reported that nettle extract
improves renal morphology, reduces interstitial fibrosis, and inhibits inflammatory processes
in rats with induced nephritis [6]. The antihistamine properties of nettle have been confirmed
in clinical studies on seasonal allergic rhinitis. It alleviates symptoms such as itching, nasal
discharge, and tearing by suppressing histamine release and blocking histamine receptors [2,
14]. Mittman (1990), in a double-blind study, showed that patients taking lyophilized nettle
leaf capsules experienced significant symptom improvement compared to placebo [2].
Recent studies suggest that nettle extract may enhance cognitive function and stress
resilience through antioxidant protection of nervous tissue and regulation of cortisol levels
[4, 15]. In stress-induced animal behavior models, nettle intake improved memory
performance and reduced anxiety [4]. Dried nettle leaves are used as a source of protein,
minerals, and antioxidants for enriching baked goods, pasta, and soups. In several countries,
nettle powders are used as a functional ingredient in the diets of the elderly and vegetarians
[18, 20]. Nettle extract is also included in creams, shampoos, and face masks due to its
antiseborrheic, sebum-regulating, and toning properties. It helps treat dandruff, hair loss, and
inflammatory skin reactions [3, 10].
Urtica dioica
is widely used in traditional medicine for
the treatment of diabetes, and modern research supports its efficacy. Flavonoids—
particularly quercetin and rutin—regulate glycemia by activating insulin receptors and
enhancing glucose transport via GLUT4 [1, 6]. In a study by Kianbakht et al. (2013),
involving 50 patients with type 2 diabetes, three months of nettle extract use led to a
significant reduction in fasting blood glucose and HbA1c levels [6]. Additionally, nettle
extract reduces insulin resistance and suppresses the production of inflammatory cytokines
involved in the pathogenesis of diabetes (IL-6, TNF-α) [5]. Nettle exhibits antiproliferative
activity against various tumor cell types, including those of the prostate, breast, liver, and
colon [3, 10, 14]. Studies have shown that nettle extract causes G1/S phase cell cycle arrest,
activates caspases-3 and -9 (inducing apoptosis), and inhibits angiogenesis by suppressing
VEGF [10, 14]. Ali et al. (2022) demonstrated that nano-extracts of nettle are more effective
than standard forms in inhibiting tumor cell growth and do not exhibit cytotoxicity toward
normal cells [10].
Urtica dioica
also has the ability to inhibit the replication of certain
viruses, including herpes simplex virus (HSV-1), influenza virus, and coronaviruses. The
main active compounds are polysaccharides and lectins [7, 12]. In an influenza A (H1N1)
virus model, aqueous nettle extract reduced viral load and enhanced interferon-γ production
[12]. Nettle exhibits the strongest antibacterial activity against gram-positive bacteria such
as Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus subtilis, as well as some gram-negative bacteria
including Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae [2, 9]. In addition to laboratory and
animal models, several clinical studies support nettle’s effectiveness: In benign prostatic
hyperplasia (BPH): After 6 months of use, there was improvement in symptoms (according
to the IPSS scale) and a reduction in residual urine (Safarinejad, 2005) [13]. In osteoarthritis:
Topical application of nettle reduced joint pain and inflammation (Randall et al., 2000)
[4].In allergic rhinitis: Lyophilized nettle leaves reduced sneezing, nasal congestion, and
itching (Mittman, 1990) [2]. Nettle is generally well tolerated, and side effects are rare
(nausea, skin reactions with overdose). However, it is contraindicated during anticoagulant
therapy and pregnancy [1, 13]. Extracts of the root and aerial parts of Urtica dioica are
capable of modulating sex hormone levels. Its effects in benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)
are well studied, where nettle reduces dihydrotestosterone (DHT) levels and inhibits
aromatase activity [1, 3]. In a systematic review and meta-analysis, Campschroer et al.
(2022) showed that nettle use in BPH patients reduced IPSS scores and improved quality of
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life without significant side effects [1]. Polysaccharides isolated from nettle leaves stimulate
both innate and adaptive immunity. They activate macrophages, increase the production of
cytokines IL-2 and IFN-γ, and enhance phagocytosis [5, 7]. A study by Sadeghi et al. (2021)
showed that nettle enhanced the cellular immune response in mice, highlighting its potential
for immunotherapy of chronic inflammatory diseases [5]. Nettle also inhibits the production
of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, TNF-α) and NF-κB, making it a promising agent in
autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis [6]. Nettle extracts help reduce total
cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL while increasing HDL (“good” cholesterol). These
effects are attributed to its antioxidant activity, ability to reduce lipid peroxidation, and to
enhance superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity [8, 11]. In a randomized trial, Ouzir et al.
(2020) demonstrated that nettle reduced blood pressure in patients with mild hypertension
over 8 weeks [8]. Coumarins and phenolic compounds found in nettle also reduce platelet
aggregation and inhibit thrombin activity. This makes it an interesting candidate for
thrombosis prevention and cardiovascular protection [4]. In an experiment by Tanriverdi et
al. (2023), nettle extract prolonged blood clotting time and may complement anticoagulant
therapy when used in appropriate doses [4]. Nettle is used in the complex care of elderly
patients due to: Its general tonic effects, Support of cognitive function (through its
antioxidant and neuroprotective activity), Improvement of appetite and intestinal motility
(due to its chlorophyll and magnesium content). Zhou et al. (2023) confirmed that
phytotherapy with Urtica dioica in geriatric practice improves physical and psycho-
emotional well-being in patients over 65 years old [9]. Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica) is a
versatile plant with proven therapeutic effects in various fields of medicine, including
gastroenterology, endocrinology, dermatology, urology, and gerontology. New research
highlights its potential in the development of phytonanopreparations and functional foods.
However, despite promising in vitro and animal model results, large-scale clinical trials are
needed to standardize dosages and evaluate long-term safety.
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