AHP Develops Stinging Nettle Monograph

SCOTTS VALLEY, Calif. The American Herbal Pharmacopoeia (AHP) released its newest monograph, Urtica dioica (L.) Urtica urens (L.) Leaf, Standards of Analysis, Quality Control and Therapeutics. Stinging nettle is most commonly used in addressing allergic rhinitis. The peer-reviewed monograph includes quality control standards and a therapeutic compendium, providing an up-to-date assessment of pharmacological and scientific data, and provides methods of analysis and identification.

Andrew Weil, M.D., AHP medical advisor, reviewed the monograph and noted: The single formal clinical study on freeze-dried nettles for its treatment of  allergic rhinitis underemphasizes its therapeutic value. I consider it one of the most effective remedies for the sneezing, itching and other common symptoms of this disorder, even in comparison with prescription and over-the-counter medications. Its efficacy and lack of side effects makes it the treatment of choice. After a time of using only the freeze-dried leaf to treat symptoms (and avoiding suppressive medications), allergic rhinitis diminishes and often disappears to a point where patients no longer require treatment.