nettle

What is the most important information I should know about nettle?

Follow all directions on the product label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

What is nettle?

Nettle (or stinging nettle) is a plant also known as Bichu, Feuille d'Ortie, Graine d'Ortie, Grande Ortie, Ortie, Ortiga, Urtica, and other names.

Stinging nettle should not be confused with "white dead nettle" (Lamium album).

Nettle has been used in alternative medicine to treat hay fever, asthma, diarrhea, osteoarthritis, circulation problems, diabetes, fluid retention, symptoms of enlarged prostate, and other conditions. However, nettle has not been proven with research to be effective in treating these conditions.

Nettle is often sold as an herbal supplement. There are no regulated manufacturing standards in place for many herbal compounds and some marketed supplements have been found to be contaminated with toxic metals or other drugs. Herbal/health supplements should be purchased from a reliable source to minimize the risk of contamination.

Nettle may also be used for purposes not listed in this product guide.

What should I discuss with my health care provider before taking nettle?

Ask a doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider if it is safe for you to use this product if you have:

• high blood pressure;
• diabetes;
• kidney disease; or
• a bleeding or blood clotting disorder (some parts of the nettle plant contain large amounts of vitamin K, which affects blood-clotting).

How should I take nettle?

When considering the use of herbal supplements, seek the advice of your doctor. You may also consider consulting a practitioner who is trained in the use of herbal/health supplements.

If you choose to use nettle, use it as directed on the package or as directed by your doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. Do not use more of this product than is recommended on the label.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra nettle to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

What should I avoid while taking nettle?

Avoid taking nettle with other herbal/health supplements that contain vitamin K. This includes alfalfa, parsley, nettle leaves, plantain, and others.

What are the possible side effects of nettle?

Although not all side effects are known, nettle is thought to be possibly safe when taken for a short period of time (no longer than 6 months).

Common side effects may include:

• sweating;
• skin irritation; or
• stomach discomfort.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect nettle?

Do not take nettle without medical advice if you are using any of the following medications:

• lithium;
• blood pressure medication;
• insulin or oral diabetes medicine; or
• warfarin (Coumadin, Jantoven).

This list is not complete. Other drugs may interact with nettle, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible interactions are listed in this product guide.

Where can I get more information?

Consult with a licensed healthcare professional before using any herbal/health supplement. Whether you are treated by a medical doctor or a practitioner trained in the use of natural medicines/supplements, make sure all your healthcare providers know about all of your medical conditions and treatments.