title: Nettle sting of Urtica dioica for joint pain--an exploratory study of this complementary therapy.
abstract: This exploratory study aims to explore the present use of the common stinging nettle to treat joint pain. Eighteen self-selected patients using the nettle sting of Urtica dioica were interviewed. Information regarding patients' use of nettle therapy was elicited, in particular mode of application, dosage and effects. All except one respondent were sure that netles had been very helpful and several considered themselves cured. No observed side effects were reported, except a transient urticarial rash. This exploratory study suggests nettle sting is a useful, safe and cheap therapy which needs further study. A randomized controlled trial is planned in collaboration with a rheumatology specialist.
authors.affiliation: Department of Primary Health Care & General Practice, Plymouth Postgraduate Medical School, University of Plymouth, UK.
authors.forename: C
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Randall
authors.forename: K
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Meethan
authors.forename: H
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Randall
authors.forename: F
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Dobbs
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D018771:Arthralgia / Q000628:therapy*; D005260:Female; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006306:Health Surveys; D006801:Humans; D019684:Magnoliopsida; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010147:Pain Measurement; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D008517:Phytotherapy; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D006113:United Kingdom