Urtica dioica (Stinging Nettle): Potential Health Benefits and Applications in Companion Animals
Written by: Venttura Nutrition Team
Reviewed by: a certified veterinary nutritionist
Published: September 2026 | Last Updated: September 2026
Reading time: 10 minutes
Summary
Urtica dioica (stinging nettle) is a nutrient-rich herb with research-backed anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antioxidant properties, used in Venttura's Flexi+ joint supplement to support mobility and comfort in dogs.
Key Takeaways
- Nettle extracts have shown dose-dependent pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory effects in multiple animal studies, including reduced paw swelling and pain responses.
- Its antioxidant activity comes largely from polyphenols like chlorogenic and caffeic acid, shown to protect cells from oxidative stress.
- Research suggests nettle may support liver health, healthy blood sugar levels, and immune function, though most evidence comes from cellular and animal models rather than dogs and cats directly.
- Nettle has a long traditional history of external use (urtication) for joint pain relief.
- Venttura's Flexi+ joint supplement includes nettle alongside other plant extracts and chondroprotective ingredients to support joint function and comfort.
I. Introduction
Urtica dioica, widely recognized as the stinging nettle, is a perennial herb from the Urticaceae family distinguished by stinging hairs that trigger skin irritation upon physical contact. Indigenous to Europe, Asia, North Africa, and North America, this species prefers damp, fertile environments throughout its native range [1]. The plant goes by numerous common names in English, including stinging nettle, common nettle, stinging bramble, burning nettle, lesser nettle, dwarf nettle, big string nettle nettle, tall nettle, slender nettle, and greater nettle, while it is locally known in Hindi as Bichu butti [1,2,3,4]. Reaching heights of roughly two meters, these plants feature stems covered in stinging hairs equipped with hooked tips, alongside leaves densely coated on both sides with rigid hairs that generate a burning feeling upon contact [5]. This notorious capacity to induce contact dermatitis occurs because the needle-like hairs function like hypodermic needles, releasing active biochemical mediators like acetylcholine and histamine [4]. A traditional and well-documented application of Urtica dioica involves a practice known as urtication or external stinging where fresh leaves and stems are applied directly to the skin to alleviate joint pain [6,7]. Different species across the Urtica genus serve as valuable reserves of nutritional elements including amino acids, fibers, phenolic compounds, vitamins, and minerals [8]. Particularly, Urtica dioica leaves are packed with carbohydrates, chlorophylls, carotenoids, lipids, vitamins, and minerals [9,10,11]. Additionally, scientific analysis of this plant has revealed a wide array of chemical constituents such as alkaloids, flavonoids, triterpenoids, sterols, sphingolipids, sesquiterpenoids, lignans, secolignans, and nor lignans [9,12]. A detailed proximate analysis found that freshly harvested nettle shoots contained approximately 90% moisture, 3.7% protein, 0.6% fat, 2.1% ash, 6.4% dietary fibre, and 7.1% carbohydrates. In comparison, nettle leaf powder contained, on average, approximately 30% protein, 4% fat, 40% non-nitrogenous compounds, 10% fibre, and 15% ash [13]. The protein content of Urtica spp. is considered nutritionally well balanced, while its mineral and vitamin content is particularly notable. Protein may constitute approximately 30% of the dry matter, with levels generally around 23% in the leaves, 14% in the stems, and 10% in the roots. Minerals account for approximately 20% of the dry matter, and the plant also provides trace elements such as zinc, iron, cobalt, potassium, nickel, and molybdenum, as well as vitamins including vitamin A and vitamin C [14].Research has identified Urtica spp. as a source of several bioactive constituents, with the leaves containing compounds such as pyrodhumin compounds, flavonoids, carotene, fatty acids, and polyphenols [15]. Compared with the leaves, the roots generally contain lower concentrations of biologically active substances, particularly polyphenolic compounds. Nevertheless, the roots contain other constituents, including scopoletin, fatty acids, polysaccharides, and plant hemorchin [16]. The seeds, meanwhile, are characterised mainly by their content of saturated and unsaturated fatty acids, carotene, and β-carotene [17]. The diverse nutritional and bioactive constituents of Urtica dioica have been associated with a range of biological activities. The potential health benefits of nettle, as reported in experimental and clinical studies, are discussed in the following section.
II . Potential Benefits of Nettle
Anti-inflammatory and Analgesic Properties
Inflammation and pain are common concerns in companion animals, and natural agents with anti-inflammatory or analgesic activity may have potential supportive applications. While direct evidence in dogs and cats is lacking, studies conducted in cellular models and experimental animals have demonstrated anti-inflammatory, antinociceptive, and pain-relieving effects of Urtica dioica extracts and their polyphenolic fractions.
Evaluated on macrophage immune cells, extracts from various parts of Urtica dioica, including roots, stems, leaves, and blossoms exhibited both cytotoxic and anti-inflammatory properties. Specifically, the methanolic extract of the flowering parts displayed substantial anti-inflammatory effects comparable to the standard agent celastrol, though it presented moderate cytotoxicity. Meanwhile, the water, methanol, and ethanol extracts derived from the roots, stems, and foliage demonstrated mild to moderate anti-inflammatory performance, accompanied by noticeable cytotoxicity, particularly in the water and methanol preparations. Conversely, dichloromethane extracts from the roots, stems, and leaves delivered potent anti-inflammatory action that matched or surpassed celastrol while displaying very low cytotoxicity toward the macrophages [22]. Another study reported that fractions enriched in polyphenols from Urtica dioica leaves (UdLs) and flowers (UdFs) exerted antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects in human skin cells. Chlorogenic acid represented the principal phenolic compound detected in both fractions, although their composition differed, with the leaf fraction containing more phenolic acids and the flower fraction having a greater abundance of flavonoids, especially isorhamnetin derivatives. Exposure of fibroblasts to LPS and H₂O₂ led to increased inflammatory responses, which were reduced following treatment with either U. dioica fraction, as evidenced by decreased pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion. The study therefore identified the leaf- and flower-derived fractions as potential multifunctional ingredients for applications aimed at skin protection and anti-aging [21]. Another study reported that a hydroalcoholic extract derived from stinging nettle (Urtica dioica) leaves demonstrated anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties when tested on male Swiss mice and Wistar rats. Specifically, administering the extract caused a dose-dependent decrease in acetic acid-triggered abdominal writhing. During the formalin trial, dosages of 200 and 400 mg/kg markedly suppressed pain responses in the second phase, whereas none of the evaluated amounts affected licking behavior in the initial phase. Furthermore, a 400 mg/kg dosage successfully shrank carrageenan-induced paw swelling by 26%. The researchers concluded that these outcomes validate the historical application of nettle leaf extracts for managing pain and inflammatory ailments [23].
A study reported that Urtica dioica hydroalcoholic extract produced dose-related reductions in pain and inflammatory responses in experimental animals. Its antinociceptive activity was examined through the tail-immersion and acetic acid-induced writhing models, while the formalin-induced inflammation model was used to assess its anti-inflammatory effect. Animals receiving the extract showed significantly less acetic acid- and formalin-induced nociception than the control group (P<0.05). Overall, the findings demonstrated dose-dependent antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activity of the extract, which may help explain its traditional use in conditions associated with pain and inflammation [24]. Another study reported that a hydro-ethanolic extract of stinging nettle along with its isolated polyphenolic components demonstrated pain-relieving and swelling-reduction properties across rodent testing models. Specifically, when administered at 100 mg/kg, the polyphenolic fraction cut acetic acid-triggered writhing by 52% and diminished carrageenan-induced paw swelling by 73%, while also suppressing both the initial neurogenic and subsequent inflammatory phases of the formalin trial by over 59%. Comparable therapeutic outcomes were achieved using the raw extract at a higher dosage of 400 mg/kg. Furthermore, safety evaluations involving acute oral toxicity tracking revealed no harmful side effects at thresholds reaching up to 4 g/kg. Chemical analysis of the botanical preparation successfully mapped 15 distinct phenolic constituents, highlighting caffeic acid, chlorogenic acid, and p-coumaric acid as the primary active compounds [25].
Antioxidant Properties
Antioxidant protection is important in pets as it helps counteract oxidative stress and protect cells from damage caused by reactive oxygen species. Although direct studies in dogs and cats are lacking, experimental research in cellular, animal, and clinical models suggests that Urtica dioica has potential antioxidant activity that may be relevant to oxidative stress protection in companion animals.
Research indicates that an ethanol-water extract (UdE) derived from Urtica dioica L., along with its isolated polyphenolic fraction (UdF), exhibits notable antioxidant and protective properties against experimentally induced oxidative stress in healthy human colon epithelial cells. Both solutions demonstrate reactive oxygen species (ROS)-clearing capabilities and contain high concentrations of caffeic acid derivatives most notably caffeoylmalic and chlorogenic acids. Furthermore, these preparations maintain normal cell morphology and viability without adverse impacts, while also moderately inhibiting human colorectal adenocarcinoma cells, with UdF noticeably lowering IL-1β concentrations. Ultimately, the study highlights that Urtica dioica could offer therapeutic health advantages driven by its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties [18]. A comprehensive review compiling evidence from laboratory, animal, and clinical investigations highlights that Urtica dioica possesses robust antioxidant capabilities linked to multiple biological outcomes, such as anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and antidiabetic effects. Furthermore, this antioxidant activity is suggested to offer protective benefits across various organ systems, encompassing the brain, liver, lungs, kidneys, ovaries, and uterus, with several clinical studies further validating these therapeutic properties [19]. Another study evaluated the antioxidant potential of a water extract of Urtica dioica L. (WEN) using multiple in-vitro assays. The extract demonstrated strong activity across tests measuring free-radical, superoxide anion, and hydrogen peroxide scavenging, as well as metal-chelating capacity and reducing power. Its ability to prevent linoleic acid peroxidation increased with the amount tested, producing 39%, 66%, and 98% inhibition at 50, 100, and 250 μg, respectively. For comparison, α-tocopherol at 60 μg/ml produced 30% inhibition [20]. Polyphenol-rich extracts obtained from the foliage (UdLs) and blossoms (UdFs) of Urtica dioica in another study displayed notable anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties when tested on human skin cells. While both preparations contained abundant phenolic compounds, dominated primarily by chlorogenic acid, the leaf extracts featured higher concentrations of phenolic acids, whereas the flower extracts contained greater amounts of flavonoids, specifically isorhamnetin derivatives. Safe and non-toxic to cells, both fractions exhibited potent radical-scavenging capabilities, with the leaf extract performing slightly better. Additionally, they significantly lowered intracellular reactive oxygen species, boosted antioxidant enzyme activity, and decreased lipid peroxidation in cells subjected to oxidative stress [21].
Antibacterial Properties
A study reported that water-based and 95% ethanolic preparations derived from stinging nettle (Urtica dioica) foliage exhibited antibacterial properties against multiple Gram-positive and Gram-negative clinical strains isolated from hospitalized patients. When tested across species such as Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella species, Bacillus subtilis, Proteus species, Salmonella species, and Pseudomonas species, both types of extracts demonstrated inhibitory action, though the alcoholic version performed more potently than the aqueous alternative. Specifically, S. aureus, B. subtilis, and Salmonella strains proved most vulnerable to the botanical treatments, whereas E. coli, Pseudomonas populations, and Proteus isolates displayed lower susceptibility. Conversely, Klebsiella strains demonstrated clear resistance against the nettle-based treatments [29].
Antidiabetic Properties
Maintaining healthy blood glucose and lipid metabolism is an important aspect of metabolic health in companion animals. Research in experimental diabetes models has shown that Urtica dioica may influence glycemic control, insulin secretion, lipid metabolism, and related hepatic and renal parameters, indicating potential nutritional relevance for metabolic support.
A study reported that evaluations of Urtica dioica (UD) indicate promising anti-diabetic activity beneficial for managing type 2 diabetes. The analyzed literature suggested that the plant can assist in suppressing blood sugar concentrations, balancing blood lipid profiles, and delivering both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. Ultimately, the review concluded that these combined pharmacological attributes can mitigate the clinical complications of type 2 diabetes especially issues tied to high blood sugarthereby reinforcing its viability as a conventional therapeutic agent [30]. Another study reported that feeding diabetic rats diets containing Urtica dioica leaf powder at 5% or 10% produced significant improvements in glucose and lipid metabolism. Compared with untreated diabetic animals, supplementation increased insulin secretion and lowered blood glucose, triglycerides, total cholesterol, and LDL concentrations. Improvements were also observed in indicators of liver and kidney function. Chemical analysis of the leaf powder showed substantial amounts of protein and dietary fibre, along with phenolic and flavonoid compounds such as protocatechuic, quinic, and caffeic acids and glycosides of quercetin and kaempferol. The study suggested that the observed improvements in glycemic control, lipid profile, and hepatic and renal function may be related to the antioxidant activity of U. dioica leaf powder [31].
Hepatoprotective Properties
The liver plays a central role in metabolism and detoxification, making protection against oxidative and metabolic damage relevant to the overall health of companion animals. Experimental studies have explored Urtica dioica in cellular and animal models of liver injury, with findings indicating protective effects associated with reduced oxidative stress, lipid accumulation, and liver damage.
A study reported that Urtica dioica leaf extracts prepared with water exhibited protective effects in HepG2 liver cells subjected to an in vitro fatty liver model. The extracts provided polyphenols, vitamins, and minerals and demonstrated both antioxidant and antiglycation activities. Sonication further enhanced their polyphenolic content, capacity to inhibit advanced glycation end-products, and overall antioxidant potential. In HepG2 cells exposed to conditions associated with fatty liver and oxidative stress, treatment with the nettle extracts improved cell viability, limited intracellular lipid accumulation, and enhanced mitochondrial oxygen consumption related to fatty acid oxidation. The findings suggested that U. dioica may exert hepatoprotective effects through several complementary actions, including attenuation of oxidative stress, prevention of lipid accumulation, and preservation of mitochondrial function [32]. Another study reported that administration of a water-based extract of Urtica dioica leaves alleviated liver damage produced by CCl₄ exposure in male albino rats. CCl₄ treatment was associated with elevated hepatic biomarkers and lipid peroxidation, depletion of antioxidant levels, and structural liver alterations accompanied by DNA damage. Administration of the nettle extract counteracted these changes, improving the observed liver abnormalities and attenuating the oxidative stress caused by CCl₄ [33].
Cardiovascular and Hypotensive Properties
A study reported that the aqueous extract of Urtica dioica (AEN) altered both cardiac activity and vascular function in experimental rat preparations, providing possible insight into its previously observed hypotensive effect. When tested on isolated rat hearts, the extract produced a pronounced slowing of cardiac rate together with an increase in left ventricular pressure. In contrast, exposure of isolated rat aortic tissue to AEN caused progressive increases in vascular tone as the extract concentration increased, with this response involving α1-adrenergic receptor activation. The extract-induced bradycardia persisted despite blockade of cholinergic and adrenergic mechanisms, indicating involvement of other pathways. The study proposed that the marked reduction in heart rate may offset the vascular response and thereby contribute to the blood pressure-lowering effect of U. dioica observed in intact animals [34]. Another study reported that extracts obtained from Urtica dioica roots produced relaxation of isolated rat aortic tissue when the vascular endothelium was preserved. The observed vasodilation was linked to stimulation of endothelial nitric oxide release and activation of potassium channels. In addition to its vascular effects, a purified extract fraction suppressed the force of cardiac contraction and caused a pronounced, although short-lived, fall in blood pressure in anaesthetized rats. The findings suggested that the blood pressure-lowering activity of U. dioica may result from the combined effects of vascular relaxation and decreased cardiac contractility [35].
Immune and Hematological Benefits
A healthy immune system and normal hematological status are essential for maintaining disease resistance, oxygen transport, and overall health in pets. Findings from aquaculture research have drawn attention to the potential of Urtica dioica as a nutritional source for supporting immune responses, blood parameters, and resistance to infectious challenges.
A study reported that stinging nettle (Urtica dioica) serves as an effective natural feed supplement for aquaculture species owing to its rich concentration of bioactive constituents, such as proteins, vitamins, minerals, and various phenolics. Findings compiled in the review indicated that incorporating the plant into fish diets enhanced growth rates, blood biochemistry, immune function, and overall hematological profiles. Furthermore, when challenged with harmful pathogens, the nettle-fed cohorts exhibited superior survival metrics and reduced physiological stress compared to control groups. The evaluation also highlighted the botanical's capacity to optimize liver enzyme activity, fortify immune defenses, and boost resilience against infectious disease challenges [26].
Anticancer and Antitumoral Properties
A study reported that exposure of SKOV-3 ovarian cancer cells to Urtica dioica leaf infusion together with cisplatin resulted in a significantly greater loss of cell viability than treatment with either agent separately. The inhibitory effect became more pronounced with increasing dose and treatment duration. Mechanistically, the combined treatment promoted apoptosis, as indicated by enhanced cellular death and DNA fragmentation, with involvement of the caspase-dependent apoptotic pathway. It also reduced the motility and migratory behaviour of the ovarian cancer cells. These findings showed that U. dioica leaf infusion could enhance the apoptotic action of cisplatin and restrict tumor-associated cellular progression in SKOV-3 cells in vitro [27]. Another study reported that Urtica dioica (UD) exerted antiproliferative and antitumoral activity in breast cancer models. In vitro treatment with UD extracts produced cytotoxic effects in three breast cancer cell lines and increased the proportion of Annexin-positive cells, indicating enhanced apoptotic cell death. In UD-treated rats, increased levels of caspase-3 and p53 proteins were observed along with a greater number of TUNEL-positive cells, whereas expression of the proliferation marker Ki-67 was lower than in untreated controls. UD administration also produced a mean tumor volume inhibition ratio of 38%. The study concluded that U. dioica exhibited antitumoral potential in breast cancer treatment [28].
III . Conclusion
Urtica dioica is a nutritionally rich plant containing a wide range of bioactive compounds that may offer multiple health-supportive properties relevant to companion animals. The available evidence indicates that U. dioica may provide anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antioxidant, antibacterial, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective, cardiovascular, immune, hematological, and antitumoral benefits. Its diverse nutritional and phytochemical composition, together with its effects across multiple physiological pathways, supports its potential as a multifunctional nutritional ingredient in pet health. Overall, U. dioica shows considerable promise as a supportive ingredient that may contribute to the overall health and well-being of dogs and cats, although further studies in companion animals are needed to establish its efficacy, safety, and appropriate use.
At Venttura, we offer Flexi+, a comprehensive joint-support nutraceutical tablet containing nettle along with other plant extracts and chondroprotective ingredients. It is designed to support joint function while providing anti-inflammatory and analgesic support. The inclusion of nettle may be particularly beneficial for pets experiencing joint discomfort, stiffness, and inflammation associated with age-related changes or musculoskeletal conditions.
Flexi+ https://venttura.com/products/joint-health-supplements-for-dogs
Frequently Asked Questions
1) What is stinging nettle and how might it help dogs?
Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica) is a nutrient-rich herb containing polyphenols and other bioactive compounds shown in research to have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, making it a supportive ingredient for joint comfort.
2) Is stinging nettle safe for dogs?
Studies in animal models have shown nettle extracts to be well tolerated, with one study reporting no harmful effects even at high doses. As with any supplement, it should be given in appropriate, formulated amounts rather than raw plant material.
3) How does nettle support joint health?
Research shows nettle extracts can reduce inflammatory markers and pain responses in animal models, which is why it's included in joint-support formulations like Flexi+ alongside other chondroprotective ingredients.
4) Has stinging nettle been studied directly in dogs and cats?
Most current evidence comes from cellular and animal (rodent) studies rather than direct trials in dogs and cats, though the mechanisms identified are considered relevant to companion animal joint and inflammatory health.
IV . References
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