Hormonal

Stinging Nettle Root

Herbal root extract used mainly for mild prostate-related urinary symptoms, with limited evidence beyond benign enlargement.

score

evidence

Caution

risk

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Overview

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Safety

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Quick Take

Reasonable for mild prostate-related urinary symptoms; skip it for testosterone, hair loss, or general anti-inflammatory claims.

Stinging nettle root is the root of Urtica dioica. While young nettle leaves are eaten as a cooked green or tea, supplements for prostate health use the root extract. Root lignans and plant sterols may interact with SHBG, weakly affect 5α-reductase, and reduce local prostate inflammation. Best evidence is for modest relief of lower urinary tract symptoms from benign prostate enlargement, with smaller effects on urinary flow and residual urine. It is most relevant for men 45+ with mild BPH-type symptoms.

Potential benefits

Improves BPH symptom scores

Improves urinary flow modestly

May reduce residual urine

May lower PSA/prostate volume

Protocol

Amount

300-600 mg

Frequency

Once or twice daily

When

With food to improve tolerance; consistency matters more than timing.

Onset Time

4-8 weeks for symptom relief; up to 12 weeks for flow changes

Who Should Consider

Men 45+ with mild urinary frequency or nocturia

Adults using watchful waiting for early BPH

Men considering a saw palmetto combination

How It Works

Nettle root contains lignans and plant sterols that appear to interfere with SHBG binding and may weakly inhibit 5α-reductase and aromatase in prostate tissue. It also reduces inflammatory signaling in preclinical models. In humans, this may modestly reduce prostate-related swelling and improve urine flow, though hormone effects are not well proven.

Updated 5/19/2026