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5 Surprising Benefits Of Nettle Root Extract

Sometimes the most beneficial things for our health are the last ingredients we’d expect. A perfect example is nettle root extract. If you asked 100 people whether stinging nettles — or parts of them — could actually benefit human health, only a handful would say yes.

In truth, nettle root extract offers a wide range of impressive health benefits. In fact, it outperforms many other compounds when it comes to certain effects. That’s why in this article, we’ll walk you through 5 surprising benefits of nettle root extract, explain how it works, and show you why it deserves a place in your supplement routine.

Table of Contents

What Is Nettle Root Extract & How Does It Work?

Nettle root extract is a botanical supplement derived from the roots of the common stinging nettle plant (Urtica dioica). This perennial herb has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. The root is rich in active compounds such as lignans, sterols, polysaccharides, and lectins, which help regulate hormones, reduce inflammation, and support overall health.

While the leaves of the nettle plant are often used to manage allergies, arthritis, and detox support, the root offers its own unique benefits. In particular, nettle root extract is known for its positive effects on the urinary system, prostate health, hormone balance, and male reproductive health. It also has mild diuretic properties.

Research suggests that a daily dosage of around 1,200 mg of nettle root extract is needed to unlock its full benefits. Each serving of Prime Male Vitality contains 160 mg of a 10:1 nettle root extract — equivalent to 1,600 mg of standard extract — making it more than capable of delivering these proven effects.

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5 Surprising Benefits Of Nettle Root Extract

Possesses Potent Antioxidant & Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Nettle root extract contains polyphenols and other antioxidants that protect cells from oxidative stress and damage. It also neutralizes reactive oxygen species (ROS), which can trigger or worsen inflammation. By lowering oxidative stress, nettle root indirectly reduces inflammation and supports overall health.

Its bioactive compounds suppress key inflammatory pathways, such as NF-κB, a major transcription factor that activates inflammatory genes. They also reduce the activity and production of pro-inflammatory cytokines like TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6, and inhibit enzymes that produce prostaglandins and leukotrienes, including COX-1, COX-2, and 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX).

By inhibiting 5-alpha-reductase and modulating DHT activity, nettle root can reduce hormone-driven inflammation in the prostate and related tissues. Its general anti-inflammatory properties also help relieve joint discomfort and stiffness, improving mobility and combating a range of inflammatory conditions.

This is particularly helpful for arthritis, as nettle root stabilizes cell membranes in immune cells, reducing overactive inflammatory responses (1).

The joint benefits extend beyond its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Some compounds in nettle root help preserve the extracellular matrix in joints, maintaining cartilage integrity and supporting overall joint health.

Improves Prostate Health & Functions

Nettle root extract is well known for supporting prostate health. Especially in men with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a condition that enlarges the prostate and can cause urinary problems.

This benefit largely comes from nettle root’s ability to partially block 5-alpha-reductase, the enzyme that converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Since DHT contributes to prostate enlargement, reducing its activity can slow or limit prostate growth.

Chronic inflammation also worsens prostate enlargement and urinary symptoms. Nettle root’s ability to lower pro-inflammatory cytokines and inhibit NF-κB signaling helps reduce prostate inflammation. By easing swelling and relaxing surrounding tissue, it can improve urine flow, reduce nighttime urination (nocturia), and relieve the sensation of incomplete bladder emptying.

Its antioxidant properties protect prostate cells from oxidative stress, which can damage tissue and worsen BPH.

Additionally, nettle root binds to proteins that regulate hormone signaling in the prostate. This helps balance androgen and estrogen activity, reducing hormonal stimulation that can lead to enlargement (2).

Regulates Hormone Levels

Nettle root extract helps regulate hormone levels by influencing both hormone-producing enzymes and how hormones interact with tissues.

It partially blocks 5-alpha-reductase, preventing the conversion of testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). By lowering DHT activity in tissues such as the prostate and scalp, it may help prevent prostate enlargement, hair loss, and weak skin, while maintaining healthy overall testosterone levels.

Certain compounds in nettle root extract can also bind to SHBG (Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin), which normally inactivates testosterone. By reducing SHBG binding, more free (active) testosterone is available. This supports healthy hormone levels, high physical performance, and optimal androgen balance.

Nettle root also modulates hormone receptor activity in tissues like the prostate, balancing androgen effects without dramatically lowering hormone levels. Its anti-inflammatory properties further help normalize receptor sensitivity and tissue responses, as chronic inflammation can disrupt hormone signaling.

By reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in hormone-sensitive tissues, nettle root extract indirectly supports the function of adrenal, thyroid, and gonadal hormones, improving overall endocrine health.

Finally, by modulating DHT and testosterone levels, nettle root may positively influence the testosterone-to-estrogen ratio, supporting hormonal balance in men and reducing estrogen-dominant effects that can lead to testosterone deficiency (3).

Supports The Urinary Tract

All of the benefits of nettle root extract work together to support urinary tract health, particularly in men with prostate enlargement (BPH) or issues with bladder function and urine flow.

By inhibiting 5-alpha-reductase and modulating androgen activity, nettle root reduces DHT-driven prostate growth and swelling. A smaller prostate eases pressure on the urethra, improving urinary flow and making it easier to empty the bladder. Some studies even suggest that nettle root directly improves urine flow, further reducing straining or a weak stream.

There is also evidence that nettle root supports the health and function of the bladder and urethra by helping to relax the smooth muscles within them. By decreasing prostate size and improving bladder and urethral function, it promotes more complete emptying and reduces the frequency of nighttime urination (nocturia), a common BPH symptom.

Additionally, the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of nettle root protect urinary tract tissues from oxidative stress and chronic inflammation. This helps relieve irritation, reduce urgency, and support long-term urinary health (4).

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Lowers Blood Sugar Levels

The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of nettle root extract make it effective for supporting healthy blood sugar levels. Chronic inflammation is linked to insulin resistance, while oxidative stress can impair insulin signaling and worsen hyperglycemia. By reducing free radicals and inflammation in tissues such as the liver, muscle, and fat, nettle root indirectly improves glucose metabolism and lowers blood sugar.

Nettle root may also protect the pancreas’ beta cells, which produce insulin, from oxidative stress and inflammation. Healthier beta cells support proper insulin secretion and better glucose control, helping to maintain healthy blood sugar levels.

Some compounds in nettle root extract can also increase cells’ responsiveness to insulin, allowing glucose to be absorbed more efficiently. This improved insulin sensitivity helps reduce high blood sugar, especially after meals. Additionally, some studies suggest nettle root may slow carbohydrate absorption in the intestines, further reducing post-meal blood sugar spikes (5).