Nettle has anti-inflammatory and antihistamine effects, benefits for benign prostatic hyperplasia, and can relieve constipation and gout. It can also reduce pain and inflammation from osteoarthritis and hay fever symptoms. However, it should be used under the supervision of a healthcare provider and is not recommended for diabetics.
The most common benefits of nettle include anti-inflammatory effects, antihistamine effects, and effects on benign prostatic hyperplasia. Traditionally, nettle has been used to treat hay fever, reduce sneezing, and treat arthritis. Additionally, nettle has been shown to relieve constipation and gout. Nettle, also known as urtica dioica, has been used for years as a diuretic, which is a substance that can relieve excess fluid in the body. Diuretics are typically used in the treatment of high blood pressure and congestive heart failure to remove excessive amounts of fluid from the body and around the heart.
The nettle plant contains fine hairs that release chemicals when exposed to the skin. These chemicals are usually very irritating, however when exposed to painful areas of the body, the chemicals can decrease pain. This could be related to the anti-inflammatory properties of nettle, which thrives in nitrogen-rich soil throughout the world. Nettle benefits also include its ability to interfere with the way the body transmits certain pain signals and the potential to lower blood pressure and blood sugar. Although nettle benefits include lowering blood glucose levels, it should not be used by diabetics except under the close supervision of their health care providers.
Typically, one of the most important benefits of nettle is the way it reacts with the prostate gland. The condition called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) refers to the enlargement of the prostate gland, which obstructs the flow of urine. In general, this condition also causes incomplete emptying of the bladder, post-urine dribbling, and a constant urge to urinate. Due to the benefits of nettle in benign prostatic hyperplasia, symptoms are reduced and, in some cases, urinary flow is restored. Because nettle cannot shrink the prostate gland in the same way that prescription prostate medications can, people should not use nettle without consulting a doctor.
Nettle benefits also include the ability to relieve pain and inflammation from osteoarthritis. Sometimes when nettle is applied to the affected area some people experience relief. Due to nettle’s strong anti-inflammatory benefits and its ability to reduce histamine levels in the body, hay fever sufferers may also find relief from a runny nose and reduced sneezing. During the hay fever season, drinking nettle tea may reduce sneezing, watery eyes, and congestion, however, patients should consult with their healthcare providers before starting nettle treatment.
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