HERBAL MONOGRAPHS
were shown to be protected from developing clinical signs of
lupus and nephritis (Musette, 1996.)
CLINICAL TRIALS
One randomized, reference-controlled, multicenter double
blind clinical trial compared therapeutic efficacy of a Sabal
and Urtica extract (PRO 160/120) with finasteride in benign
prostatic hyperplasia (Aiken stages I to II). The study
involved 543 patients that were treated for 48 weeks with
either the PRO 160/120 extract or finasteride in a double
blind design. The primary marker was the change of
maximum urinary flow after 24 weeks of therapy. Secondary
markers included average urinary flow, miction volume and
miction time. Urinary symptoms were recorded by the
Intemational-Prostate-Symptom-Score (I-PSS). There was
also a quality of life questionnaire that was developed by the
American Urological Associacion Ameasurement Commit-
tee (1991). Results were similar for both groups. There was
an increase in urinary flow rate (1.9 ml with PRO 160/120;
2.4 ml with finasteride). Urinary flow increase and miction
time decreases were comparable for both groups. The I-PSS
decreased from 11.3 at the start to 8.2 at 24 weeks and 6.5 by
week 48 for the PRO 16/120 group, and went from 11.8 to
8.0 and 6.2 respectively for the finasteride group. The life
quality scores went from 7.5 at the start of treatment, to 4.2
in the PRO 160/120 group, and from 7.7 to 4.1 in the
finasteride group. The most notable differences between the
groups were in the lower adverse events categories where the
PRO 160/120 group reported less events, in particular imthe
areas of diminished ejaculation volume, erectile dysfunction
and headache (Sokeland & Albrecht, 1997.)
INDICATIONS AND USAGE
STINGING NETTLE FLOWERING PLANT
- Infections of the urinary tract
- Kidney and bladder stones
- Rheumatism
The drug is used internally and externally as supportive
therapy for rheumatic ailments. It is used internally as
flushing-out therapy for inflammatory diseases of the lower
urinary tract. Also used as irrigation therapy for prevention
and treatment of kidney stones.
Unproven Uses: In folk medicine, the plant is used internally
as a hematogenic remedy, diuretic for arthritis, rheumatism
of the joints and muscles, and as a component of diabetic
teas (this indication is not recommended). Externally, the
drug is used as a hair and scalp remedy against oily hair and
dandruff.
STINGING NETTLE ROOT
- Prostate complaints, irritable bladder
STINGING NETTLE / 731
Preparations of the root are used for micturition disorders in
prostate adenoma stages I to II. This drug only relieves die
symptoms of an enlarged prostate without eliminating the
enlargement itself.
Unproven Uses: In folk medicine, the root is used for edema,
rheumatism, gout and prostatitis.
CONTRAINDICATIONS
STINGING NETTLE FLOWERING PLANT
The drug is contraindicated when there is fluid retention
resulting from reduced cardiac or renal function.
PRECAUTIONS AND ADVERSE REACTIONS
STINGING NETTLE FLOWERING PLANT ~ :~
General: No health hazards or side effects are known in
conjunction with the proper administration of designated
therapeutic dosages. Possible allergic reactions (skin afflic-
tions, edema) have been observed in rare cases following
intake of the drug. Contact urticaria frequently occurs when
skin is exposed to the plant. The urticaria is accompanied by
a stinging sensation that may last as long as 12 hours post
exposure (Oliver, 1991.)
Drug Interactions: Studies have demonstrated that leaf
extracts of Stinging Nettle when used along with diclofenac,
enhance the anti-inflammatory effect of diclofenac.
STINGING NETTLE ROOT
No health hazards are known in conjunction with the proper
administration of designated therapeutic dosages. Occasion-
al, mild gastrointestinal complaints may occur as side effects
of drug intake.
DOSAGE
STINGING NETTLE FLOWERING PLANT
Mode of Administration: Comminuted herb for infusions and
other galenic preparations for internal use; as stinging nettle
spirit for external application. Drug extracts are contained in
diuretic tea mixtures and in blood-purifying teas.
Preparation: To prepare an infusion, use 1.5 g finely cut
herb in cold water, briefly bring to a boil and steep for 10
minutes, then strain.
Daily Dose: The average daily dose is 8 to 12 g of drug.
Observe ample intake of liquid (minimum 2 liters/day). One
cup several times daily as a diuretic (1 teaspoonfiil = 0.8 g
drug). For external application, a tincture/spiritus (1:10) may
be administered.
STINGING NETTLE ROOT
Mode of Administration: Comminuted drag from the root for
infusions as well as other galenic preparations for oral use.
Preparation: To prepare an infusion use 1.5 g coarse
powdered drug in cold water, heat to boiling point for 1
