An Introduction to Stinging Nettle Interactions
Even though it is a natural product,
stinging nettle can potentially interact with medications. In particular, it is thought that stinging nettle could theoretically interact with the following medicines:
Stinging Nettle Drug Interactions Explained
The following sections explain in detail the potentially negative interactions that can occur when stinging nettle is combined with any of the drugs listed above.
Blood Pressure Medications
Theoretically, combining stinging nettle with a
blood pressure medicine could cause dangerously low
blood pressure (hypotension). Be sure to watch for signs of low blood pressure, such as dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting.
Diabetes Medications
There is conflicting information about how stinging nettle might affect blood sugar. Some sources suggest that stinging nettle may increase blood sugar, while others state that the herb can decrease blood sugar. If you have
diabetes, check with your healthcare provider before taking stinging nettle. You may need to monitor your blood sugar more closely to see exactly how the herb affects you.
Lithium
Because stinging nettle may have diuretic effects, it may interact with lithium. It could possibly increase the level of lithium in the blood, increasing the risk of
lithium side effects. If you take lithium, check with your healthcare provider before taking stinging nettle.
