Common NameStandardized: stinging nettleOther: nettle Botanical NameUrtica dioica L. ssp. dioicaPlant Family: Urticaceae OverviewIntroductionThe common nettle comes by its other name, stinging nettle, honestly.The innocuous plant, a perennial that grows in many parts of the world and that has been naturalized to Brazil, delivers a stinging burn whenthe hairs on the leaves and stems are touched. Its healing properties are as well known among various cultures and are part of folklore and tradition. Those healing powers are even alluded to in at least one fairy tale, The Swan Princess, in which the heroine must weave shirts ofnettle leaf to cure her twelve brothers who have been turned into swansby an evil stepmother. The nettle leaf and root both have medicinal properties, but each is more effective against different complaints.ConstituentsFormic acid, histamine, serotonin, choline, minerals, chlorophyll, amino acids, lecithin, carotenoids, flavonoids, sterols, tannins and vitamins. Nettle's main plant chemicals include: acetophenone, acetylcholine, agglutinins, alkaloids, astragalin, butyric acid, caffeicacids, carbonic acid, chlorogenic acid, chlorophyll, choline, coumaric acid, folacin, formic acid, friedelins, histamine, kaempherols, koproporphyrin, lectins, lecithin, lignans, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, neoolivil, palmitic acid, pantothenic acid, quercetin, quinic acid, scopoletin, secoisolariciresinol, serotonin, sitosterols, stigmasterol, succinic acid, terpenes, violaxanthin, and xanthophyllsParts UsedRootTypical PreparationsStandardized extract, as a decoction, in capsules and incorporated into paste, creams and salves.PrecautionsWe recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.For educational purposes only This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.