Tuesday, August 2, 2011

Nettles - Herbal DHT Blocker

Clinical studies have confirmed stinging nettle's benefit to men in reducing symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (a noncancerous enlargement of the prostate gland). A concentrated root extract of nettle is sometimes combined with saw palmetto (Serenoa repens) and the bark of the pygeum evergreen tree (Pygeum africanum) to treat the early stages of the disease. The herbal combination helps to increase the urinary volume and maximize the rate of urine flow. German research suggests that active ingredients in the nettle root may reduce prostate swelling. Again, since androgenetic alopecia is caused by the same factors (DHT) as prostatic hyperplasia. Therefore this combination of ingredients is also extremelly effective in warding off hair loss.
Stinging nettle has been used for several centuries among many cultures to cure ailments as urinary-related inflammations, rheumatism, kidney failures, arthritis, and anemia.   In some cultures, stinging nettle has been consumed as a vegetable and has a high nutritional value similar to spinach.  Today, stinging nettles has become a commonly used ingredient in numerous hair growth treatment programs because of its believed ability to inhibit the production of dihydrotestosterone (DHT).  Still, there is a lack of studies or clinical testing that proves its effectiveness as a DHT blocker.
How safe and effective is stinging nettle?
Even though stinging nettle has been found to work proficiently as a relief for BPH symptoms and a healing drug, how it operates inside one’s body remains unknown.  Hence, there is no scientific evidence available that can guarantee it will work successfully in natural hair growth.  On the other hand, there is no empirical evidence rendering this herb as an ineffective DHT blocker.  Since it is known to have a low risk of causing unwanted side effects, it has become a popular alternative to hair growth treatment programs using medicinal DHT inhibitors.
What about side effects?
Despite the fact that stinging nettle has a low amount of toxicity, it is highly prone to upset people with allergies to plants and medicines.  Coming in contact with this plant can cause a burning, stinging rash that can last more than a day.  Using a DHT blocker that has this herb as an ingredient may be unsafe for the following:
  • Pregnant or breastfeeding women: If ingested when expecting, stinging nettle may cause uterine contractions and increase the likelihood of a miscarriage.  Using when breastfeeding is likely to harm an infant’s health.
  • Diabetics: Stinging nettles can cause blood-sugar levels to rise and must be carefully monitored by those with diabetes that use DHT blockers with this herb.
  • People with high blood pressure: Although known to lower blood pressure, taking stinging nettles in addition to blood pressure medicines may cause one’s blood pressure to sink too low.  Hence, those with high blood pressure will want to discuss taking such a DHT blocker with their doctor.
  • Those with kidney problems: Since this herb increases urine flow, it may interfere with the functioning of one’s kidneys and hence, one is best to seek advice from their physician before taking it.
Before taking this type (or any type) of DHT blocker, whether topical or in the form of a pill, it is best to seek medical advice first.  Also, notify your doctor of all medications you are currently taking, whether prescription or nonprescription.

1 comment:

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