Nettle Root
The root, not the leaf, has repeated randomized trials for prostate symptoms. Effects on urinary symptom scores are real but modest, and most of the strongest data come from a saw palmetto combination.
Evidence last reviewed: August 2026
What the science says
- Lower urinary tract symptoms in BPH Moderate evidence
A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study of Urtica dioica root in men with benign prostatic hyperplasia reported improved symptom scores versus placebo. Effect sizes were modest and the trial was single-center.
- Combination with saw palmetto Moderate evidence
A large placebo-controlled multicenter trial of a sabal (saw palmetto) plus urtica extract found improvement in lower urinary tract symptoms sustained over long-term follow-up. Because the product is a combination, the contribution of nettle root alone cannot be separated out.
- DHT and hormone levels Limited evidence
A randomized trial of nettle root extract in BPH also examined biochemical parameters; claims that it meaningfully lowers dihydrotestosterone in men rest largely on in vitro binding studies rather than clinical measurements.
Dosage & safety
Scientific references
- Urtica dioica for treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia: a prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study
- Long-term efficacy and safety of a combination of sabal and urtica extract for lower urinary tract symptoms--a placebo-controlled, double-blind, multicenter trial
- Urtica Dioica Root Extract on Clinical and Biochemical Parameters in Patients with Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia, Randomized Controlled Trial
Where to buy
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