
Stinging Nettle Tincture for Hormone and Prostate Health: The Prickly Plant with Powerful Benefits
Stinging nettle tincture (Urtica dioica) is a powerful herbal extract known to support hormone balance, prostate health, and inflammation. Its root may help increase free testosterone by lowering SHBG, while its leaf supports allergy and joint relief.. Leaf and full-plant extracts have been used for allergies, arthritis, and overall wellness. Backed by studies and used in European urology for decades, this plant deserves a place in your wellness routine.
At RevitalyzeMD in Knoxville, we often recommend stinging nettle tincture for men navigating hormonal shifts, prostate concerns, or SHBG-related imbalances.
Watch the video below to discover how stinging nettle can support men’s hormone balance, boost testosterone naturally, and promote overall sexual health—along with what the research actually shows.
What Is Stinging Nettle?
Stinging nettle is a perennial plant known for its sting—tiny hairs that irritate the skin on contact—but its real power lies beneath the surface. Traditionally used in herbal medicine across Europe, Asia, and North America, Urtica dioica offers modern therapeutic benefits, especially for men’s hormones and prostate health.
Botanical Details:
- Scientific Name: Urtica dioica
- Common Names: Nettle, stinging nettle, common nettle
- Used Parts: Root (hormones/prostate), Leaf (allergy/inflammation), Whole plant (broad wellness support)
Benefits of Stinging Nettle
1. Hormonone Balance for Men
Stinging nettle root supports testosterone metabolism by:
- Reducing SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin) → Increases free testosterone
- Blocking aromatase enzyme → Prevents T → estrogen conversion
- Inhibiting 5-alpha reductase → May reduce DHT and related prostate issues
This makes nettle particularly helpful for aging men, athletes, or anyone with symptoms of hormonal imbalance.
2. Prostate Health & BPH Support
Nettle root is widely used in Europe for managing Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)—a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate common in older men.
Clinical effects include:
- Reduced prostate inflammation
- Less frequent nighttime urination
- Improved urinary flow and bladder emptying
- Commonly paired with saw palmetto in prostate formulas
3. Joint Health & Inflammation
Thanks to its anti-inflammatory flavonoids, nettle is often used to:
- Ease symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
- Reduce pain, swelling, and stiffness
- Decrease inflammatory markers likeTNF-α and IL-6
4. Allergy Relief
Nettle has natural antihistamine properties, making it a go-to remedy for:
- Seasonal allergies (hay fever)
- Itchy eyes, sneezing, and congestion
- Blocking histamine receptors to reduce symptoms
5. Urinary Tract Support
Used for centuries to support kidney and bladder function, nettle may help:
- Alleviate urinary retention
- Support fluid balance
- Promote urinary flow and detox pathways
6. Hair Health
Nettle is rich in iron, silica, zinc, and vitamin C—key nutrients for:
- Hair growth support
- Reducing dandruff and scalp irritation
- Strengthening follicles in both men and women
7. Blood Sugar Balance
Some research suggests nettle may help:
- Improve glucose metabolism
- Increase insulin sensitivity
- Support blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes
⚠️ More clinical research is needed in this area, but early results are promising.
Does Stinging Nettle Affect Testosterone?
Effect |
Nettle Root Impact |
Total Testosterone |
❌ No direct increase |
Free Testosterone |
✅ Likely ↑ (via SHBG reduction) |
DHT Conversion |
🟡 Possibly ↓ (via 5-alpha reductase) |
Estrogen Conversion |
✅ Inhibits aromatase |
Prostate Health |
✅ Strong support for BPH |
How to Take Stinging Nettle Root
Form |
Dose |
Best For |
Standardized Root Extract | 300–600 mg/day (0.6–1% ß-sitosterol) | BPH, hormone balance |
Powder | 1–2 grams/day | General prostate support |
Tincture | 1–2 mL, 2–3x/day | Inflammation, urinary support |
Tea (Root) | 1–2 cups/day | Mild wellness, detox |
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The root extract of stinging nettle is most commonly used to support hormone balance and prostate health.
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The leaves are typically valued for their benefits in managing allergies and supporting joint health.
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Using blends that incorporate the whole plant can provide a wider range of overall wellness benefits.
Safety, Side Effects & Who Should Avoid It
Stinging nettle is generally well tolerated when taken appropriately.
Mild Side Effects:
- Upset stomach
- Rash or skin irritation (rare)
Use with Caution If:
- Pregnant or breastfeeding (not enough safety data)
- Taking blood thinners
- Have kidney issues (it acts as a mild diuretic)
Always consult your healthcare provider before adding herbal supplements to your regimen.

Dr. Durst’s clinical Perspective
Stinging nettle root may not raise your total testosterone, but it can unlock the testosterone you already have by freeing it from SHBG. For men dealing with prostate concerns, urinary symptoms, or declining energy, it’s a powerful natural ally.
Looking for Stinging Nettle Tinctures in Knoxville, TN?
Want to optimize your hormones naturally? Book a hormone consultation with RevitalyzeMD today and discover how natural support like stinging nettle can help you feel stronger, sharper, and more balanced—inside and out.
FAQs About Stinging Nettle
Can women take stinging nettle?
Yes, especially for inflammation, allergies, or hair health. However, root extracts for testosterone modulation are typically used in men.
How long until I see results?
Most BPH studies show improvement in 8–12 weeks. Hormone support may take 4–6 weeks depending on the individual.
Is nettle safe to take with TRT or hormone therapy?
Yes, but it’s best to consult your provider to avoid herb-drug interactions, especially if using aromatase inhibitors or 5-alpha reductase blockers.
What’s the difference between root and leaf?
- Root: Hormone/prostate support
- Leaf: Anti-inflammatory, allergy relief
- Whole Plant: Broad-spectrum wellness