What Compounds Does Nettle Contain?
Nettle is primarily composed of complex sugars and lectins. It contains prostaglandins, which help reduce redness and irritation. Nettle leaves are rich in protein, calcium, phosphorus, iron, magnesium, beta-carotene, and a significant amount of vitamins A, C, D, and B complex.
The Health Benefits of Organic Nettle Leaf
Nettle has been studied for its antioxidant properties, resistance to microorganisms, and its impact on various health conditions. The Department of Nutritional Sciences & Toxicology at the University of California, Berkeley, investigated different parts of the nettle plant (roots, stalk, leaves) and found strong nutraceutical properties in all parts.
Further research from the Università di Pisa in Italy showed that nettle has a relaxing effect that can help lower blood pressure.
Relation to Defense Against Microorganisms
Researchers at Turkey’s Institute of Transplantation and Gene Sciences at Baskent University studied several plant extracts, including stinging nettle, for their ability to combat harmful organisms. Their findings showed high activity in nettle extract, suggesting its potential use in agricultural disease control. This opens up new opportunities for organic farmers, as nettle has consistently proven effective against microorganisms. A study in the Netherlands also found significant activity against harmful organisms in nettle extract, indicating it could help with some cases of diarrhea.
At Abant Izzet Baysal University in Turkey, nettle was tested against six common harmful organisms, and the nettle leaf extract had the highest inhibitory effects on three of them. The Institute for Vaccines and Sera in Russia also confirmed nettle’s efficacy against microorganisms.
Impact on Prostate Health
In Germany, there is a tradition of using herbal therapies to treat enlarged prostate. Researchers at Universit?tsklinik Essen evaluated nettle root extract and found it to have antiphlogistic (anti-inflammatory) and antiproliferative (inhibiting cell growth) effects, making it a safe therapeutic option for enlarged prostate.
Another study by Philipps-Universit?t in Germany also found significant activity in nettle root extract for treating enlarged prostate. The Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology at Philipps-Universit?t noted that nettle root extract contains compounds of interest for prostate health research.
Recent Developments
Kynurenic acid, known for its cognitive benefits in mice, has recently gained attention. The Institute of Agricultural Medicine in Lublin, Poland, tested various herbs for this substance and found it present in nettle leaf. Kynurenic acid is of interest due to its potential neuroactive properties, which might benefit certain neurobiological disorders.
