Does Nettle Raise Estrogen? (2024)

Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica) is a herbaceous plant that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for various purposes, including reducing inflammation, alleviating allergies, and supporting prostate health. However, there have been some concerns about its potential effects on hormone levels, particularly estrogen, which has led to questions about whether nettle raises estrogen levels in the body.

Table of content
1. Does Nettle Raise Estrogen? 2. Factors Influencing Estrogen Levels 3. Potential Benefits and Risks 4. Consulting a Healthcare Professional

Does Nettle Raise Estrogen?

Based on current research, there is no conclusive evidence that stinging nettle directly raises estrogen levels in the body. However, some studies have suggested that nettle may have properties that could potentially influence estrogen metabolism and activity:

  • Some compounds found in nettle, such as lignans and isoflavones, are classified as phytoestrogens – plant-based compounds that can mimic or modulate the effects of estrogen in the body.
  • Animal studies have shown that nettle extracts may have estrogenic effects, although these effects were relatively weak compared to synthetic estrogens.
  • In vitro studies have demonstrated that nettle extracts may inhibit the activity of aromatase, an enzyme responsible for converting testosterone into estrogen. This could potentially lower estrogen levels indirectly.

It's important to note that the potential effects of nettle on estrogen levels and activity are still not fully understood, and the existing research has yielded mixed results.

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Factors Influencing Estrogen Levels

To better understand the potential impact of nettle on estrogen levels, it's crucial to consider the various factors that can influence estrogen production and metabolism in the body:

Age and Hormonal Changes

Estrogen levels naturally fluctuate throughout a person's life, with higher levels during reproductive years and a decline during menopause for women. The impact of nettle on estrogen may vary depending on an individual's age and hormonal status.

Body Composition and Metabolism

Factors such as body weight, body fat distribution, and overall metabolic health can influence estrogen production and clearance from the body. Individuals with different body compositions and metabolic profiles may respond differently to the potential estrogenic effects of nettle.

Existing Medical Conditions

Certain medical conditions, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, or hormone-related cancers, may affect how the body processes and responds to estrogen. In these cases, the potential impact of nettle on estrogen levels should be carefully evaluated under medical supervision.

Potential Benefits and Risks

While the impact of nettle on estrogen levels remains inconclusive, there are potential benefits and risks associated with its use that should be considered:

Potential Benefits

  • Nettle may provide anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which could be beneficial for various health conditions.
  • Some research suggests that nettle may help alleviate symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in men.
  • Nettle extracts have been studied for their potential in managing allergies and hay fever.

Potential Risks

  • Excessive consumption of nettle or high doses may cause gastrointestinal discomfort, fluid retention, or skin irritation.
  • Nettle may interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners, diuretics, or antidepressants.
  • Individuals with hormone-sensitive conditions or taking hormone therapy should exercise caution and consult with a healthcare professional before using nettle supplements.

Consulting a Healthcare Professional

If you have concerns about the potential effects of nettle on estrogen levels or are considering using nettle supplements, it's essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional, such as a doctor, herbalist, or nutritionist. They can evaluate your individual health status, medication use, and any potential risks or contraindications associated with nettle consumption.

By understanding the current research on nettle and its potential impact on estrogen levels, as well as considering individual factors and consulting with a healthcare professional, you can make an informed decision about whether incorporating nettle into your routine is appropriate and safe for your specific needs.

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Does Nettle Raise Estrogen? (2024)

FAQs

Does nettle increase estrogen? ›

Animal studies have shown that nettle extracts may have estrogenic effects, although these effects were relatively weak compared to synthetic estrogens. In vitro studies have demonstrated that nettle extracts may inhibit the activity of aromatase, an enzyme responsible for converting testosterone into estrogen.

What does nettle do for a woman? ›

This nutrient-dense herb has a wide-array of uses, but today we want to take a closer look specifically at how it's been used to treat issues of women's health. From treating UTIs and painful menstruation, to mitigating and preventing osteoporosis, the nettle plant is an ally not to be overlooked.

Is it safe to take nettle everyday? ›

Stinging nettle is generally considered safe when used as directed. Occasional side effects include mild stomach upset, fluid retention, sweating, diarrhea, and hives or rash (mainly from topical use). It is important to be careful when handling the nettle plant because touching it can cause an allergic rash.

What are the side effects of too much nettle? ›

When taken by mouth: Stinging nettle is possibly safe when used for up to 1 year. It might cause diarrhea, constipation, and upset stomach in some people.

What herbs cause high estrogen? ›

Black cohosh

Black cohosh is a traditional Native American herb that has historically been used to treat a variety of conditions, including menopause and menstrual issues. Researchers believe that black cohosh also contains certain compounds that stimulate estrogen receptors.

Does nettle stimulate hair growth? ›

By reducing DHT levels, nettle root extract may help promote hair growth and prevent hair thinning. Scalp Health: It is believed that nettle root extract has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can promote scalp health. A healthy scalp is necessary for optimal hair growth and hair health.

Who should not take nettle? ›

Avoid if you're pregnant or breastfeeding because there isn't enough information on its safety. Use with caution if you're elderly because of the potential of causing low blood pressure. And use stinging nettle with caution if you have diabetes because of the potential that it may lower or raise blood sugar levels.

Is stinging nettle good for menopause? ›

Stinging nettle's minerals and chemicals are especially useful to women at all stages of life. Nettle can improve the general health of the female reproductive system and is frequently included in postmenstrual syndrome, fertility, and menopause blends.

Is nettle hard on the kidneys? ›

Nettle tea benefits the kidneys by increasing urine output and uric acid removal. Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, it improves kidney function and urinary flow. Nettle tea is a natural diuretic that promotes proper fluid flow in the kidneys and bladder, preventing kidney stones from forming.

Is stinging nettle bad for your liver? ›

Stinging nettle extracts are generally well tolerated and have not been implicated in instances of serum aminotransferase elevations or cases of clinically apparent liver injury.

What does nettle do to lungs? ›

Better respiratory health

Nettle has long been used in folk medicine to help with seasonal allergies and other mild respiratory conditions. Scientists believe this may be due to nettle's ability to reduce the histamines our bodies create when responding to an allergen.

What effect does nettle have on hormones? ›

Nettle root helps decrease the availability of free testosterone, which can help reduce androgen excess symptoms. It may do this by inhibiting 5-alpha-reductase, an enzyme that contributes to PCOS symptoms and is often higher in women with PCOS.

Does nettle cause blood clots? ›

Antiplatelet and anticoagulant drugs (blood-thinners) -- Stinging nettle may affect the blood's ability to clot, and could interfere with any blood-thinning drugs you are taking, including: Warfarin (Coumadin)

Can you mix nettle with other herbs? ›

It's a nutritive, a diuretic, an anti-inflammatory, and so much more. Pairing it with other herbs is a way to emphasize specific aspects of its medicine. For instance, nettle and rosehips are each nourishing herbs, and when taken together they cover more bases than either one could do alone.

Does stinging nettle raise testosterone? ›

Does not boost testosterone despite being claims to, although it can help Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia and urine abnormalities. Stinging Nettle is most often used for Immunity & Infectious Disease. The Examine Database covers Type 2 Diabetes, Osteoarthritis, and 6 other conditions and goals.

Is nettle an anti-androgen? ›

The antioxidant activity of the extract could be attributed to some compounds such as flavonoids, phenolic acids, and diterpenes [57]. Nettle extract contains antiandrogenic compounds, such as sterols, flavonoids, and polysaccharides [58].

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