Evidence supporting the use of: Dwarf Nettle
For the health condition: Scratches and Abrasions
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Dwarf Nettle (Urtica urens) has a long history of traditional use in herbal medicine, particularly in Europe, for treating minor skin injuries such as scratches and abrasions. Folk healers historically applied nettle preparations topically to promote healing and reduce inflammation. The traditional rationale is based on the plant’s astringent properties, which are believed to help stop bleeding and accelerate wound closure.
Phytochemical analyses indicate that Dwarf Nettle contains compounds such as flavonoids, phenolic acids, and tannins, which may contribute to its astringent and anti-inflammatory effects. However, direct clinical evidence supporting its efficacy for scratches and abrasions is lacking. Most available data are derived from ethnobotanical surveys and historical texts rather than modern controlled studies.
Some laboratory research points to the general antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties of nettle extracts, but these findings are not specific to Dwarf Nettle nor to the context of wound healing in humans. Therefore, while the use of Dwarf Nettle for treating minor skin injuries is well-supported by tradition, scientific evidence remains limited. Further research is required to validate these traditional claims and to better understand the safety and efficacy of such use.
Other ingredients used for Scratches and Abrasions
aloe verabayberry
beeswax
bisabolol
black walnut
chamomile
turmeric
dyer’s woad root
iodine
Japanese sophora
lauric acid
mucin
protease
slippery elm bark
vitamin C
zinc
parthenium
chickweed
paederia foetida
lilac
yarrow
moss
oriental arborvitae
tartarian aster
camphor oil
cleavers
wood betony
white oak
melaleuca alternifolia
geranium
arnica
Asclepias cordifolia
acacia
Agrimony
Antirrhinum majus
Achyranthes
Anserina
Anemone
Aquilegia formosa
Allantoin
Alkanet
Acemannan
Abuta
Alkanna
Bee Propolis
Babchi
Bai Ji
Baliospermum
Black spruce
Blackthorn
Bleeding Heart
Bridges' Penstemon
Black-Eyed Susan
Blackbrush
Brazillian peppertree
Bisabolene
Bloodroot
Benzoin
Begonia fimbristipula
Black Poplar
Bletilla
Barbary matrimony vine
Bush Monkey Flower
Babassu
Black root
Bittersweet
Calochortus
Comfrey
Candleberry
Calotropis gigantea
Cattail
Columbine
Cornflower
Common Thatching grass
Common Zinnia
Cynoglossum grande
Cedar
Campylandra fimbriata
Campsiandra angustifolia
Cranesbill
Chinese Thoroughwax
Carrapichinho
Cedrus libani
Ceanothus integerrimus
Cyanthillium cinereum
Castile Soap
Chiococca alba
Cocklebur
Copaiba Oil
Calyptridium umbellatum
Dragon's Blood
Devil's Club
Dwarf Nettle
Davilla rugosa
Deerbrush
Elephant Vine
European hazel
Emu Oil
Elkweed
Eupatorium
Elemi
Polyvinyl alcohol
Snakeroot (unspecified)
Other health conditions supported by Dwarf Nettle
Abdominal PainArthritis
Backache
Bruises (healing)
Cuts
Inflammation
Injuries
Itching
Rashes and Hives
Scratches and Abrasions
Wounds and Sores