Synopsis

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

Nettle (Urtica dioica), commonly known as stinging nettle, has a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine for various inflammatory conditions, including allergic rhinitis (hay fever). More recently, there has been some scientific interest in its potential for treating allergic rhinitis. Several small clinical studies and laboratory investigations suggest that nettle may have anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties, possibly by interfering with histamine receptors and inhibiting the release of inflammatory mediators from immune cells.

A double-blind study published in 1990 found that freeze-dried nettle leaf reduced symptoms in individuals with allergic rhinitis compared to placebo, but the sample size was small and results were not robust enough for strong conclusions. Subsequent in vitro experiments have indicated that nettle extracts can inhibit the activity of certain enzymes (such as cyclooxygenase and tryptase) and reduce the production of prostaglandins and other inflammatory markers involved in allergic responses.

Despite these promising findings, the overall quality and quantity of clinical evidence remain limited. Most studies have small sample sizes, short durations, and lack replication. Major medical guidelines do not currently recommend nettle as a primary therapy for allergic rhinitis, but it is sometimes used as an adjunct in integrative medicine settings. In summary, there is some scientific basis for nettle’s use in allergic rhinitis, but evidence is preliminary and not definitive.

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