Nettle in Type 2 Diabetes: Benefits and Risks

Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica) is a common plant often considered a weed, yet in herbal medicine it is valued for its many therapeutic properties. In type 2 diabetes, nettle may be considered as an adjunct in comprehensive treatment—but with important caveats.

Potential benefits in type 2 diabetes:

1. Possible effects on blood glucose levels.
   Some animal studies and limited human research suggest that nettle extracts may help lower blood glucose levels and improve insulin sensitivity. This effect is attributed to compounds that may interact with insulin receptors or inhibit carbohydrate breakdown in the intestine.

2. Anti-inflammatory properties.
   Chronic low-grade inflammation is one of the factors contributing to insulin resistance. Nettle contains substances (flavonoids, phenolic compounds) that may help suppress inflammatory processes in the body.

3. Support for cardiovascular health.
   Diabetes significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular disease. Nettle may have a mild hypotensive (blood pressure–lowering) effect and a beneficial impact on blood lipid profiles, which is important for preventing complications.

4. Source of vitamins and minerals.
   The plant is rich in vitamins (A, C, K, B-group), magnesium, iron, zinc, and chromium. Chromium, in particular, plays a role in carbohydrate metabolism. Deficiencies of these nutrients are common among people with diabetes.

5. Diuretic effect and kidney health.
   The mild diuretic action of nettle may promote the excretion of excess glucose in the urine and reduce edema, but special caution is required here (see below).

Important warnings and contraindications:

1. NOT A SUBSTITUTE FOR PRIMARY TREATMENT.
   Nettle is only a supportive remedy. It cannot replace diet, physical activity, glucose-lowering medications, or insulin prescribed by a physician.

2. Risk of hypoglycemia.
   If you are already taking glucose-lowering medications (metformin, sulfonylureas, insulin, etc.), adding nettle may potentiate their effects and lead to dangerously low blood sugar levels (hypoglycemia).

3. Effects on the kidneys.
   In cases of diabetic nephropathy (kidney damage), the use of any diuretics, including nettle, must be strictly approved by a physician. Self-medication can be harmful.

4. Drug interactions.
   Nettle may interact with anticoagulants (such as warfarin), antihypertensive medications, diuretics, and antidepressants.

5. Contraindications: pregnancy, severe kidney or heart failure, and individual intolerance.

How nettle is used: main methods

• Tea/Infusion:
  Pour 500 ml of boiling water over 1–2 tablespoons of dried herb, steep for 15–20 minutes, then strain. Drink 100–150 ml 2–3 times a day between meals, starting with small doses.

• Decoction:
  Cover the herb with cold water, bring to a boil, and simmer for 5–10 minutes. This preparation is considered stronger.

• Fresh leaf juice (in spring):
  Used in short courses, diluted with water.

• Culinary use:
  Young nettle shoots (blanched with boiling water) are added to soups, salads, and omelets as a valuable vitamin-rich food.

Key conclusion and recommendation:

Nettle has properties that may theoretically be beneficial for people with type 2 diabetes as a supportive therapy. However, its use must обязательно be discussed with your treating endocrinologist or primary care physician.

The doctor will assess:

• Your current level of diabetes control (HbA1c and blood glucose levels).

• The presence of complications (kidney and cardiovascular status).

• The risk of interactions with your current treatment regimen.

Only after such consultation and under regular monitoring of blood sugar levels can nettle be safely included in the diet—always remembering that it is a complement, not an alternative, to evidence-based medicine.