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VOL. 11, ISSUE 3 (2026)
Therapeutic potential of Urtica dioica L.: A comprehensive review of its hepatoprotective activity
Authors
Yashika Awasthi, Vaishali Pundeer, Himani, Kajal Choudhary, Shelja, Anukriti, Mukesh Verma, Pankaj Bagga, Nitesh Kumar, Arti Sharma, Jitender Kumar
Abstract
Liver is a vital organ involved in metabolism,
detoxification and homeostasis. However, the continuous exposure to toxins such
as drugs, alcohol, heavy metals, environmental pollutants cause hepatotoxicity,
frequently leads to oxidative stress and hepatocellular damage. Many synthetic
drugs are available for the treatment of hepatic diseases, but they have
adverse effects. Therefore, the use of herbal medicines has expanded and their
popularity has increased. Herbal medicines have long been used to treat liver
diseases. Urtica dioica commonly called as stinging nettle is a widely
distributed herb traditionally utilized in numerous cultures for its various
medicinal benefits, including its effects on liver health. This
comprehensive review evaluates the available scientific literature concerning
the hepatoprotective effects of Urtica dioica and analysis of in
vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies investigating its efficacy
against different forms of liver injury. The phytochemical constituents
are known to exhibit hepatoprotective effects against hepatotoxins by reducing
lipid peroxidation, enhancing activity of antioxidant enzyme, modulating
inflammatory responses, stabilizing cell membrane modulating key enzymes
involved in detoxification and metabolism. Experimental studies including in
vivo and in vitro showed that the plant extract reduces hepatic
injury induced by toxins such as Carbon tetrachloride, acetaminophen, alcohol,
thioacetamide, erythromycin etc. Urtica dioica exhibits
substantial potential as a natural hepatoprotective agent, providing a
preventative strategy for liver diseases.
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Pages:1-7
How to cite this article:
Yashika Awasthi, Vaishali Pundeer, Himani, Kajal Choudhary, Shelja, Anukriti, Mukesh Verma, Pankaj Bagga, Nitesh Kumar, Arti Sharma, Jitender Kumar "Therapeutic potential of <i>Urtica dioica</i> L.: A comprehensive review of its hepatoprotective activity". International Journal of Research in Pharmacy and
Pharmaceutical Sciences, Vol 11, Issue 3, 2026, Pages 1-7
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