Stinging Nettle Root Extract Supplement To Support Prostate Health

Stinging nettle root, extracted from the plant Urtica Dioica, is widely used in Europe to combat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). It is recommended by Commission E in Germany and by the European Scientific Cooperative of Phytotherapy (ESCOP), specifically to relieve urinary problems associated with an enlarged prostate.

Stinging Nettle Root Benefits

The development of BPH depends on different factors: the conversion of male reproductive hormone into DHT, which actively binds to sites of prostate cells and the regulation of the age-related imbalance between levels of male reproductive hormone and estrogen, which stimulates prostate growth – i.e., aromatisation converts androgens into estrogens, adding to those already circulating in the blood.

Research shows nettle root counteracts the development of BPH via various mechanisms:

• Inhibits conversion of male reproductive hormone into DHT.
• Interferes with free androgen concentration by acting on the serum proteins to which they are bound. Some of its constituents are able to bind strongly to these proteins.
• Inhibits the aromatase activity that allows male reproductive hormones to be converted into estrogens.
• Exercises a direct anti-proliferation action.

While prostate health is the number one use case for nettle root, there are multiple nettle supplement benefits, including inflammation and blood sugar regulation.

Taking Nettle Root for Prostate Health

Sting nettle root extract has demonstrated it may help inhibit enlarged prostate glands. Approximately 50% of men aged 51 and up suffer from enlarged prostates, or BPH. The condition's cause remains unknown, but it is recognized that BPH can lead to severe discomfort when urinating.

Some of the other problems associated with an enlarged prostate include:

• Difficulty urinating;
• Weak stream;
• Waking up in the middle of the night;
• Urge to urinate;
• Dribbling.

Over time, BPH can lead to severe problems with the bladder and kidneys, as urination removes dangerous compounds from the body. You may experience infections or other chronic issues if you cannot urinate. Two of the most common problems are urinary tract infections and kidney stones.

Some animal studies have shown that nettle root extract has benefits for the prostate. Problems associated with the prostate may be resolved by stopping the conversion of male reproductive hormone to DHT, the latter being a more potent form of male reproductive hormone.

Stopping this conversion with a nettle root DHT blocker may help reduce prostate size. And, unlike some pharmaceuticals, scientists have not observed side effects from using sting nettle root extract for DHT to alleviate short and long-term urination issues.

Although BPH is typically not a life-threatening health issue, it can be highly disruptive to your day-to-day life, and if the results of early studies continue to be replicated, nettle root extract could be a big reprieve for millions of older men all over the world.

Taking Nettle Root for Inflammation

Inflammation is a normal part of the body's healing process. But chronic inflammation can lead to severe pain and may even be an indicator of more severe health problems.

And while inflammation may seem like a negative reaction, it is a natural response to a stimulus or damaged tissue. As part of your body's immune response, vast numbers of cells flock to the area. White blood cells, mast cells, and lymphocytes are just some of the cells that help to heal the damage.

For most people, acute inflammation lasts for a few days or weeks and then resolves on its own. Anyone with a chronic condition may find that the inflammation persists, which can affect their daily life.

Nettle root capsules contain compounds that may reduce inflammation. Limited animal and test-tube studies have shown that the presence of nettle root interferes with inflammatory hormones.

One of the biggest sting nettle capsules health benefits may be its ability to act as an anti-inflammatory. One study involving adults experiencing chronic inflammation in their knees or hips revealed that nettle root may significantly reduce pain but scientists say more research is required.

Taking Nettle Root for Blood Sugar Regulation

Blood sugar regulation is important for everyone, but especially those who experience excessively high or low blood sugar levels regularly. High blood sugar levels, especially, remain a chronic issue worldwide, largely due to the accessibility of foods that are high in sugar.

The effects of high blood sugar include:

• Increased thirst;
• A constant need to urinate;
• Blurred vision;
• Tiredness;
• Recurrent infections.

These problems can be unnerving, particularly if you have not previously had blood sugar issues. While restricting your intake of foods high in sugar will help you regulate your sugar to a certain extent, studies show that dietary supplements, like nettle root extract, can also help regulate your sugar.

In a three-month study that included 46 people, participants took 500 mg of nettle extract three times a day. The results were very positive, with participants reporting lower blood sugar levels than the control group. Although scientists describe the results of these studies as extremely promising, they stress that not enough human studies have been carried out to indicate anything more than a correlation between nettle root extract and human blood sugar regulation.

What do Studies Show About Nettle Root Supplements?

In total, hundreds, and potentially even thousands of men who have enrolled in clinical studies have benefited from the effects of nettle root. Those studies have looked at its ability to:

• Reduce prostate size;
• Limit frequency of urination;
• Combat nocturnal micturition and post-micturition residue.

Nettle root extract is often used in combination with Saw Palmetto, another supplement that supports prostate health, and is also available to buy at SuperSmart, to provide a synergistic effect.

Nettle Root Extract Side Effects

Everyone has a different health profile. And, despite the research that highlights nettle root health benefits, everyone should perform their own analysis when making a decision about whether or not to add nettle root extract, or any supplement, to their daily routine.

Some may be affected by side effects that others are not. And if you have a chronic condition that requires medical care, make sure you speak to your doctor about the potential nettle root supplement benefits and side effects before you begin taking it.

Those who are otherwise in good health have little to fear. However, when taking nettle root extract, make sure you follow the instructions regarding the recommended daily serving size. Exceeding the recommended serving size is a risk with any supplement, and nettle root is no exception.