Use stinging nettle leaf extract

What to Do

Take 600mg of freeze-dried stinging nettle leaf daily in three divided doses during allergy season.

Why It Works

Lab studies show nettle extract inhibits H1 receptors, blocks mast cell tryptase, and inhibits COX-1/COX-2 enzymes. However, the key clinical trial (74 patients) found only modest improvements, with both nettle and placebo groups showing similar symptom relief. The evidence remains preliminary.

Tips

• Use freeze-dried leaf extract (the form used in clinical trials), not tea
• Never handle fresh nettle without gloves — the stinging hairs cause skin irritation
• Low risk as a supplement but do not rely on it as primary treatment
• Avoid during pregnancy (may trigger uterine contractions)