Evidence supporting the use of: Nettle
For the health condition: Hemorrhoids

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Nettle (Urtica dioica) has been used in traditional medicine for a variety of ailments, including as a remedy to support or treat hemorrhoids. Historically, nettle has been valued for its anti-inflammatory, astringent, and hemostatic (blood-stopping) properties. In traditional European and folk medicine, both oral and topical preparations of nettle leaves or root were sometimes recommended to reduce swelling, alleviate bleeding, and address discomfort associated with hemorrhoids. The astringent effect was believed to help shrink swollen blood vessels, while its anti-inflammatory action could soothe irritated tissues.

However, there is very limited scientific evidence to support these traditional uses. Most modern studies on nettle focus on its benefits for conditions like benign prostatic hyperplasia, joint pain, and allergies, rather than hemorrhoids. No high-quality clinical trials have directly assessed nettle's efficacy for hemorrhoids. The rationale for its use remains mostly speculative and rooted in its general anti-inflammatory and astringent properties, as well as anecdotal success reported in herbal medicine traditions. Contemporary herbalists may still include nettle in hemorrhoid formulas, especially in combination with other herbs, but this is not based on robust clinical data.

In summary, nettle's use for hemorrhoids is primarily traditional, with evidence rated at 2 (weak, based on historical and anecdotal reports rather than scientific studies).

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