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ING-125Ingredient Research Profile

Testosterone & Hormonal

Stinging Nettle Root

Also known as: Urtica dioica root · Nettle root extract

●●○Moderate Evidence

Nettle root lignans bind SHBG, freeing bound testosterone. The most evidence-based use is for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) symptom relief.

Effective Dose

300–600mg / day

per clinical evidence

Evidence Level

Moderate

Testosterone & Hormonal

Mechanism

SHBG binding competition — increases free testosterone

primary action

Best For

Free testosterone

BPH symptoms, Prostate health

This profile is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplementation, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or take medications.

What Is Stinging Nettle Root?

Stinging nettle root (not the leaf) contains lignans and polysaccharides that bind sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG), preventing it from binding testosterone and reducing free testosterone levels. This mechanism makes it useful for both testosterone optimisation and BPH (where 5-alpha reduced testosterone in prostate drives tissue growth).

How It Works: The Science

Nettle root lignans (particularly 3,4-divanillyltetrahydrofuran) bind directly to SHBG, occupying the binding site that would otherwise hold testosterone. This increases free testosterone fraction. In the prostate, nettle root also inhibits 5-alpha reductase and aromatase, reducing DHT and oestrogen in prostate tissue — relevant for BPH.

Primary Mechanism

SHBG binding competition — increases free testosterone

Evidence-Based Benefits

Reduces BPH symptoms (urinary frequency, flow)

moderate

Safarinejad (2005) — 360mg/day for 6 months significantly improved BPH symptom scores

May increase free testosterone via SHBG competition

limited

Mechanistic evidence strong; human clinical trials for testosterone specifically are limited

Dosage Guide

Effective Dose

300–600mg / day

300–600mg root extract (5:1 concentrate) daily. Often combined with saw palmetto for comprehensive BPH management. Must be root extract — nettle leaf has different actions.

Safety Profile & Side Effects

Well tolerated. Mild GI upset possible. May interact with blood pressure and blood-thinning medications.

Who Should (and Shouldn't) Take It

Best for
Free testosteroneBPH symptomsProstate health
Who it's for

Men over 40 with BPH symptoms (frequent urination, weak stream) and those wanting to optimise free testosterone as part of a broader hormone support stack.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the recommended dose of Stinging Nettle Root?

300–600mg root extract (5:1 concentrate) daily. Often combined with saw palmetto for comprehensive BPH management. Must be root extract — nettle leaf has different actions.

Is Stinging Nettle Root safe?

Well tolerated. Mild GI upset possible. May interact with blood pressure and blood-thinning medications.

How does Stinging Nettle Root work?

Nettle root lignans (particularly 3,4-divanillyltetrahydrofuran) bind directly to SHBG, occupying the binding site that would otherwise hold testosterone. This increases free testosterone fraction. In the prostate, nettle root also inhibits 5-alpha reductase and aromatase, reducing DHT and oestrogen in prostate tissue — relevant for BPH.

Who should take Stinging Nettle Root?

Men over 40 with BPH symptoms (frequent urination, weak stream) and those wanting to optimise free testosterone as part of a broader hormone support stack.

Related Ingredients

Zinc (Bisglycinate / Picolinate)BoronFenugreek ExtractTongkat Ali (Eurycoma Longifolia)

Medical Disclaimer

Ingredient profiles are for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplementation, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or take medications. Full disclaimer →