East Asian nettle
Urtica thunbergiana
Urtica thunbergiana is a plant native to Japan. While its traditional use in medicine has not been extensively documented, studies have shown promising results for its potential health benefits. Research indicates that compounds from Urtica thunbergiana exhibit significant α-glucosidase inhibitory activity and enhance the transdermal delivery of insulin and insulin sensitizers in diabetic mice without causing notable skin irritation or cell damage. Additionally, genetic differentiation between populations in Nara Park and surrounding areas suggests variability due to environmental factors such as deer browsing and limited gene flow. UT also demonstrates anti-inflammatory effects both in vitro and in vivo, hinting at potential applications for treating inflammatory conditions like atopic dermatitis (AD). Safety concerns are minimal, with no major issues recorded; similarly, there is currently no evidence of significant drug interactions associated with Urtica thunbergiana.
- Best evidence
- D
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- The study found that Urtica thunbergiana extracts, among others, enhanced the transdermal delivery of insulin and insulin sensitizers in diabetic mice without causing significant skin irritation or cell damage.
- Five compounds from Urtica thunbergiana showed significant α-glucosidase inhibitory activity.
- Genetic differentiation exists between Urtica thunbergiana populations in Nara Park and surrounding areas, likely due to intense deer browsing.
- UT exhibits anti-inflammatory effects in both in vitro HaCaT cells and in vivo NC/Nga mice, suggesting potential as an anti-AD agent.
Frequently asked questions
What is East Asian nettle?
East Asian nettle (Urtica thunbergiana) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about East Asian nettle?
4 sourced findings are recorded for East Asian nettle; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: The study found that Urtica thunbergiana extracts, among others, enhanced the transdermal delivery of insulin and insulin sensitizers in diabetic mice without causing significant skin irritation or cell damage.
How strong is the evidence for East Asian nettle?
The strongest finding for East Asian nettle carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is East Asian nettle safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for East Asian nettle in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does East Asian nettle interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for East Asian nettle in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of East Asian nettle?
East Asian nettle is also known as: Крапива Тунберга.
Is East Asian nettle a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 Effects of Sting Plant Extracts as Penetration Enhancers on Transdermal Delivery of Hypoglycemic Compounds. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Inhibitory Effects of Urtica thunbergiana Ethanol Extract on Atopic Dermatitis-Induced NC/Nga Mice. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Intense browsing by sika deer (Cervus nippon) drives the genetic differentiation of hairy nettle (Urtica thunbergiana) populations. literature abstract metadata
- T2 A new amine isolated from Urtica thunbergiana Siebold & Zucc. literature abstract metadata