Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Nettle (Urtica dioica) has a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine for a variety of conditions, including gastrointestinal complaints. In some traditional systems, nettle has been used as a gentle laxative or to support healthy digestion, which may be extrapolated to potential use in constipation, including in children. The belief is often grounded in the plant’s mild diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as its high fiber content, which could theoretically support bowel function. However, documentation specifically associating nettle with the treatment of constipation in children is sparse. Most references are anecdotal or found in older herbal compendia, and the use is not widely described in authoritative ethnobotanical sources for pediatric constipation.

From a scientific perspective, there are virtually no clinical studies directly evaluating the efficacy or safety of nettle in treating constipation, especially in children. Most modern research on nettle focuses on its anti-inflammatory, diuretic, or anti-allergic properties. Given the lack of robust evidence and the absence of pediatric studies, nettle should not be relied upon as a primary treatment for constipation in children. Instead, its use for this purpose remains primarily rooted in tradition, and the overall quality of evidence is weak, warranting caution.

More about nettle
More about Constipation (children)

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