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THERAPEUTIC APPLICATIONS OF URTICA DIOICA: A NATURAL
RESERVOIR OF BIOLOGICALLY ACTIVE SUBSTANCES
(Literature Review)
Boboev Khurshid Shodiqulovich
Abu Ali ibn Sina Bukhara State Medical Institute,Bukhara, Uzbekistan, 23 Gijduvan Street
Phone:
+998 (65) 223-00-50
E-mail:
sunnyman9123@gmail.com
Abstract:
Urtica dioica, commonly known as stinging nettle, is a medicinal plant with a
broad geographic distribution and a wide range of therapeutic properties. Its rich
phytochemical profile—including essential vitamins, minerals, flavonoids, and
chlorophyll—contributes to its hemostatic, anti-inflammatory, diuretic, antianemic,
immunomodulatory, and blood sugar-lowering activities. Both traditional healing systems
and modern medicine utilize nettle for managing conditions such as anemia, hemorrhage,
joint disorders, dermatological issues, and as an adjunct in the treatment of diabetes mellitus.
It is available in multiple pharmaceutical forms, including decoctions, infusions, fresh juice,
extracts, and herbal blends. Despite its demonstrated therapeutic value, the use of stinging
nettle requires caution due to specific contraindications. This review highlights the latest
findings regarding the medicinal applications of Urtica dioica in clinical and traditional
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 long been recognized in traditional
medicine across various cultures for its therapeutic potential, particularly as a hemostatic,
anti-inflammatory, diuretic, and general tonic. In recent years, scientific interest in this plant
has grown, driven by extensive research into its bioactive constituents and pharmacological
mechanisms [1, 4, 8].
The plant’s aerial parts are notably rich in biologically active compounds such as vitamins
(C, K, B-complex), essential minerals (iron, calcium, zinc), flavonoids (quercetin, rutin),
chlorophyll, and polysaccharides [2, 3, 14]. These compounds contribute to its diverse
biological effects, including antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and metabolic activities.
Phenolic constituents and lignans present in the leaves further support its role in immune
enhancement and free radical scavenging [4, 7].
Modern pharmacological studies have confirmed that Urtica dioica extracts can suppress
inflammatory mediators like TNF-α and IL-1β through inhibition of NF-κB activation [4,
10]. Clinical trials have reported symptomatic improvement in rheumatoid and osteoarthritis
patients receiving nettle therapy [11]. A 2021 meta-analysis highlighted its ability to lower
blood glucose levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes, largely through enhanced insulin
secretion and improved peripheral insulin sensitivity [6, 9].
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The plant’s antioxidant activity is largely attributed to its flavonoids and chlorophyll, which
effectively reduce oxidative stress markers [1, 10, 18]. Additionally, its high iron and
vitamin C content supports erythropoiesis, making it useful in managing iron-deficiency
anemia [14, 19].
Contemporary research has demonstrated nettle’s efficacy in various medical contexts,
including:
Type 2 diabetes mellitus [6, 16, 20]
Inflammatory joint disorders [11]
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) [5]
Anemia [14, 19]
Dermatological and allergic conditions [3, 12]
Phytochemicals in nettle have been shown to inhibit lipoxygenase and cyclooxygenase
enzymes, thereby reducing prostaglandin synthesis and inflammation [1, 4, 10]. Nettle also
modulates alpha-glucosidase activity, helping to control postprandial hyperglycemia [6, 20],
and boosts expression of antioxidant enzymes such as SOD, catalase, and glutathione
peroxidase [7, 10], which are crucial in protecting tissues from chronic oxidative stress.
In vitro studies demonstrate that Urtica dioica extracts can inhibit the proliferation of cancer
cells, particularly in prostate, breast, and gastric tissues, through induction of apoptosis and
cell cycle arrest [4, 12, 13]. Its synergistic potential with chemotherapeutic agents has also
been suggested [4]. Additionally, nettle exhibits notable antimicrobial activity, effectively
suppressing pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus, E. coli, Candida albicans, and
Pseudomonas aeruginosa [12, 15]. This antimicrobial action is linked to disruptions in
bacterial cell walls and inhibition of key enzymatic pathways.
Immunologically, nettle enhances both innate and adaptive responses. Studies indicate
increased macrophage activity, elevated T-cell and NK-cell function, and enhanced
immunoglobulin production—especially IgA and IgG—after nettle administration [8, 9].
Riehemann et al. (1999) further documented its ability to suppress cytokine release and
reduce ICAM-1 expression [4].
Topical applications of nettle have proven effective in treating eczema, psoriasis, acne, and
seborrhea. Its antibacterial action against Propionibacterium acnes and its inflammation-
reducing effect make it valuable in dermatological therapy [10, 17]. Nettle-based cosmetic
products—such as shampoos, tonics, and ointments—are used to combat dandruff and hair
loss, supported by the regenerative properties of chlorophyll and silicon [3, 10].
Cardiovascular benefits include hypotensive and vasodilatory effects via nitric oxide
pathways, demonstrated in hypertensive rat models [6, 7, 16]. Its anticoagulant activity—via
inhibition of platelet aggregation and increased antithrombin III activity—suggests potential
in thrombosis prevention [1, 14]. Furthermore, nettle improves lipid profiles by reducing
LDL, triglycerides, and total cholesterol while boosting HDL levels [6, 18].
Nettle’s potential in anti-aging, cognitive enhancement, and sarcopenia prevention is being
explored due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and metabolic effects [10, 15, 20].
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Functional foods incorporating nettle powders are increasingly used for elderly and
vegetarian populations, particularly in Europe and Central Asia [18, 20].
Hepatoprotective properties have been validated in models of liver injury (e.g., paracetamol,
CCl₄ exposure), with nettle reducing ALT, AST, bilirubin, and enhancing hepatocyte
regeneration [10, 17]. Renoprotective actions have also been demonstrated, particularly in
diabetic nephropathy, through reductions in glomerular inflammation, proteinuria, and
histological damage [6, 9].
In allergic rhinitis, clinical trials have confirmed nettle’s antihistamine activity by blocking
histamine receptors and suppressing histamine release [2, 14]. Cognitive and anti-stress
effects have been reported in animal models, likely through cortisol modulation and
neuroprotection [4, 15].
Nettle is widely used in metabolic disorders such as type 2 diabetes. Key flavonoids like
quercetin and rutin enhance glucose uptake via GLUT4 and improve insulin receptor
sensitivity [1, 6]. Long-term clinical studies confirm its ability to lower fasting glucose and
HbA1c levels [6], reduce insulin resistance, and modulate inflammatory cytokines such as
IL-6 and TNF-α [5].
Antitumor activity has been documented across multiple cancer lines. Mechanisms include
apoptosis induction, VEGF inhibition, and suppression of angiogenesis [10, 14]. Nano-
formulations of nettle have shown improved efficacy without harming healthy cells [10].
Nettle’s antiviral activity has also been demonstrated against HSV-1, influenza A, and
coronaviruses, primarily due to its polysaccharides and lectins [7, 12]. It also possesses
robust antibacterial properties against both gram-positive and gram-negative strains [2, 9].
Clinical data support its use in:
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH): Reduced symptoms and residual urine [13]
Osteoarthritis: Topical relief of pain and inflammation [4]
Allergic rhinitis: Alleviation of sneezing and nasal symptoms [2]
Although generally safe and well tolerated, caution is advised during pregnancy and
anticoagulant therapy due to possible herb-drug interactions [1, 13].
Urtica dioica's ability to modulate sex hormones, particularly in BPH, has been confirmed,
with effects on DHT levels and aromatase inhibition [1, 3]. Systematic reviews suggest it
improves IPSS scores and quality of life in affected men [1].
Polysaccharides from nettle enhance IL-2 and IFN-γ production, boosting immune defenses
and offering promise in autoimmune and inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid
arthritis [5, 6]. Cardiovascular protection, lipid regulation, and inhibition of platelet
aggregation are further reasons for its growing interest in modern phytotherapy [4, 8, 11].
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Finally, Urtica dioica is increasingly used in geriatric medicine to enhance energy, cognition,
and digestive function. A recent study confirmed that nettle phytotherapy improves physical
and emotional health in patients over 65 years old [9].
In conclusion, Urtica dioica is a pharmacologically versatile plant with validated therapeutic
roles in endocrinology, oncology, dermatology, immunology, and geriatrics. While
preclinical and early clinical studies are promising, large-scale trials are required to optimize
dosage guidelines and ensure long-term safety in clinical settings.
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