Leaf & Herb · Leaf/Green

Wild Nettles

Provisional Moderate ScoreCompound

Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia

Published March 15, 2026Last updated March 15, 2026Methodology · Editorial policy · Report an error

Evidence review status: unreviewed

Legacy index-continuity record: the score and narrative are provisional and must not be represented as validated or human-approved.

Review flags: AWAITING_SEMANTIC_VALIDATION

Provisional Summary

Urtica dioica contains potent anti-inflammatory flavonoids including quercetin-3-glucoside (465 mg/kg) and kaempferol hexoside (449 mg/kg) that suppress pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α by 50.8% and IL-1β by 99.7% in vitro. The plant's phenolic compounds inhibit NF-κB nuclear translocation while boosting antioxidant enzymes CAT, SOD1, and glutathione peroxidase.

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Screened PMID Records

Reported Benefits

Pending

Synergy Review

At a Glance

CategoryLeaf & Herb

GroupLeaf/Green

Public Score StatusProvisional Moderate

Primary Keywordwild nettles benefits

Reported Benefits (Provisional)

Reduces inflammation through flavonoids and phenolic compounds, benefiting conditions like arthritis, allergies, and inflammatory bowel disease.

Strengthens immune defenses with high levels of vitamin C, polyphenols, and carotenoids, reducing susceptibility to infections.

Supports digestive health with dietary fiber that promotes bowel regularity, nourishes the microbiome, and soothes gut inflammation.

Promotes clear, resilient skin through detoxifying and anti-inflammatory compounds, supporting traditional uses for eczema, acne, and psoriasis.

Supports bone density and reduces osteoporosis risk with its content of calcium, magnesium, and vitamin K.

Stimulates liver and kidney function, aiding in the elimination of toxins and metabolic waste for comprehensive detoxification.

Supports cardiovascular health by regulating blood pressure, improving circulation, and supporting vascular integrity through compounds like potassium and polyphenols.

Origin & History

Natural habitat

Wild Nettles (Urtica dioica), also known as stinging nettles, are a nutrient-rich perennial plant native to temperate regions across Europe, Asia, and North America. Though known for their stinging hairs when raw, they become safe and highly nutritious once cooked or dried. Revered in herbal medicine for centuries, nettles offer potent anti-inflammatory, detoxifying, and mineral-replenishing properties, making them a valuable superfood.

“Nettles have a long history of use in European and indigenous medicine for immune fortification, skin clarity, and detoxification. Revered for their mineral-dense profile, they continue to be recognized in contemporary wellness for their therapeutic versatility and systemic benefits.”Traditional Medicine

Research Narrative (Provisional)

Scientific studies confirm the efficacy of nettles in reducing inflammation, supporting immunity, and enhancing cardiovascular and skin health. Research published in various journals highlights its therapeutic potential across multiple physiological systems.

Preparation & Dosage

Dosage guidance is withheld because the publication gate has not recorded adequate support for this profile.

Nutritional Profile

- Vitamins: A, C, K, B vitamins (especially Folate) - Minerals: Calcium, Magnesium, Potassium, Iron - Phytochemicals: Flavonoids, Carotenoids, Polyphenols - Fiber: Dietary Fiber

Reported Mechanism (Provisional)

Mechanism of Action

Wild nettle's flavonoids (quercetin, kaempferol, myricetin) and phenolic acids (chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid) suppress inflammatory pathways by inhibiting NF-κB nuclear translocation and blocking TNF-α and IL-1β cytokine production. The compounds also block histamine H1 receptors, COX-1/2 enzymes, and tryptase while upregulating antioxidant genes including catalase, SOD1, and glutathione peroxidase. Fatty acids in nettle roots show 3x higher trans-linoleic acid concentrations than leaves, contributing to anti-inflammatory effects.

Clinical Narrative (Provisional)

Current evidence derives primarily from animal and in vitro studies rather than human clinical trials. In diabetic rats, 50 mg/kg hydroalcoholic leaf extract for 6 weeks increased antioxidant gene expression and decreased lipid peroxidation markers. Laboratory studies demonstrate that 5 mg/mL ethanol extract reduces TNF-α by 50.8% and IL-1β by 99.7% in LPS-stimulated human blood cells. No randomized controlled trials with specific efficacy outcomes, p-values, or effect sizes for conditions like arthritis or benign prostatic hyperplasia were identified in current research.

Also Known As

Urtica dioica L.Stinging nettleCommon nettleWild stinging nettleEuropean nettle

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These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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