Nettle is a plant of which leaves are covered in hairs containing a corrosive liquid that is very irritating to the skin and that results in painful itching. Certain nettle varieties are even fatal. Curiously (at least if you are not familiar with the principles of homoeopathy), the remedy derived from this plant is mainly used against hives. Indeed, Urtica Urens is manufactured using the species of the same name, also known as Annual Nettle, Dwarf Nettle or Small Nettle, a species less toxic than other kinds of nettle.
Urtica urens is a homoeopathic remedy that can alleviate irritation and itching caused by contact with the plant from which it is produced. Indeed, homoeopathy assumes that a particular substance, taken by a healthy person, can produce unpleasant symptoms, but can lead to healing if consumed by a “sick” person in small doses. Therefore, Urtica urens is recommended to treat hives. This skin condition is generally manifested by the appearance of red patches, accompanied by a warm, itching, and burning sensations that are difficult to alleviate. However, it is not recommended to scratch the affected area, as that would only increase the problem instead of relieving the patient.
Urtica urens is also as a complement to some dermatological treatments. Therefore, it is ideal for treating skin disorders resulting from allergies.
Moreover, this homoeopathic remedy is also used for minor burns (first to second degree burns). However, it must be used carefully since it is not suitable for chemical burns or burns caused by a boiling liquid, regardless of the burn’s severity.
In case of acute urticaria, causing a spontaneous manifestation of red patches, it is recommended to take a 5-granule dose of Urtica Urens 5 CH every 10 minutes. The treatment should last for 2 days. In case of chronic urticaria, the treatment should be extended to 3 months. In this case, the same dose of Urtica Urens 5 CH (5 granules per dose) should be taken every time the itching reappears.
If the rash is caused by an allergy to shellfish, it is better to take three granules of Urtica Urens 9 CH every 10 minutes and then gradually space out the intakes as the patient’s state improves.
In the case of an infant or child with eczema, a 9-day treatment is required. For this purpose, administer two granules per intake but do not exceed 5 intakes per day for 2 days. After that, three intakes should be taken every day during 6 days.
Apis Mellifera
Bovista Gigantea
Calendula officinalis
Dolichos Pruriens
Histaminum
Lycopodium clavatum
Natrum Muriaticum
Lung Histamine
Pulsatilla
Sulfur
Pruritus
Hives
Good to know: Urtica Urens is especially recommended when the symptoms tend to worsen with the cold, heat and when resting. Therefore, if the symptoms can be soothed by the cold, Apis Mellifica is the most appropriate remedy.