Nettle Root
Also known as: Urtica dioica root, Urticae radix, Stinging Nettle Root
Effective Dosage
459 mg/day dry extract (based on clinical trial data)
What the Science Says
Nettle root is an extract from the underground part of the stinging nettle plant (Urtica dioica). Clinical trials show it can modestly reduce urinary symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), such as urgency and frequency, with one year-long study showing a statistically significant improvement in symptom scores compared to placebo. When combined with saw palmetto, it performed comparably to the prescription drug finasteride for improving urine flow in men with BPH, with fewer reported side effects. Its exact mechanism is unclear, but it may work by influencing sex hormone binding proteins, reducing inflammation, and slowing prostate cell growth.
What It Doesn't Do
Won't dramatically increase urine flow or shrink the prostate — studies show no significant improvement in those measures. Not proven to treat arthritis or joint pain in controlled trials. No evidence it boosts testosterone or acts as a hormone supplement. Don't expect it to replace prescription medications for moderate-to-severe BPH. No evidence it works for women or for conditions unrelated to prostate health.
Evidence-Based Benefits
Nettle root extract has shown modest but statistically significant improvement in International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPS/BPH) compared to placebo in a 12-month RCT (PMID: 15045190). In combination with saw palmetto, it demonstrated equivalent efficacy to finasteride in improving urinary flow and symptom scores in BPH patients, with better tolerability than finasteride (PMID: 10971268). In vitro studies suggest antiproliferative effects on prostate epithelial cancer cells and possible anti-inflammatory mechanisms involving SHBG and aromatase modulation, though clinical relevance of these mechanisms remains unconfirmed (PMID: 17509841, PMID: 10705733).
Weak EvidenceEffective at: 459 mg/day dry extract based on clinical trial data
Source: auto-research
Absorption & Bioavailability
Unknown — no pharmacokinetic data provided in the available studies. Active compounds have not been fully identified, making absorption assessment difficult.
Red Flags to Watch For
- Evidence base is limited — only a small number of randomized controlled trials exist, and effect sizes are modest
- Mechanism of action is still unclear; it is unknown which compounds are responsible for any clinical benefit
- Not recommended as a replacement for medical evaluation of BPH symptoms — prostate issues require proper diagnosis
- Pre-clinical safety data are incomplete; use during pregnancy or breastfeeding is not supported by available evidence
- Many products combine nettle root with other herbs, making it hard to know what is actually driving any effect
Products Containing Nettle Root
See how Nettle Root is used in these analyzed products:
Research Sources
- PubMed
- NIH DSLD
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Last updated: 2026-04-06