3,4- Divanillyltetrahydrofuran, Urtica dioica (stinging nettle)
3,4-Divanillyltetrahydrofuran is a compound found in Urtica dioica, commonly known as stinging nettle. According to a study, 3,4-Divanillyltetrahydrofuran is a popular ingredient in dietary supplements for men as it is proven to increase testosterone levels. Stinging nettle is a plant with pointed leaves and white to yellowish flowers. The root and above-ground parts are used for diabetes, arthritis, and urinary tract infections, among other conditions.
A clinical trial showed that taking 600 mg of freeze-dried nettle leaf can be used for allergic rhinitis, and clinical trials for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) have used aqueous extracts of U. dioica root in dosages of 360 mg daily over 6 months and methanol root extract in dosages of 600 to 1,200 mg daily for 6 to 9 weeks. A combination of sabal and urtica extract was also found to be effective in managing lower urinary tract symptoms. According to a review, nettle tea can also reduce skin irritation and alleviate allergy symptoms.
The recommended dosage varies depending on the condition, and standardization of commercial preparations is lacking. Radix urticae extracts and other nettle preparations are generally well-tolerated, although minor and transient gastric effects, including diarrhea, gastric pain, and nausea, have been reported. However, there is a case report of hypoglycemia due to nettle root ingestion, so people with diabetes should exercise caution when using nettle supplements.
Case studies:
- A clinical trial showed that taking 600 mg of freeze-dried nettle leaf can be used for allergic rhinitis.
- Clinical trials for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) have used aqueous extracts of U. dioica root in dosages of 360 mg daily over 6 months and methanol root extract in dosages of 600 to 1,200 mg daily for 6 to 9 weeks.
- A combination of sabal and urtica extract was found to be effective in managing lower urinary tract symptoms.
Sources:
- https://www.nutriavenue.com/3-4-divanillyltetrahydrofuran-from-nettle-root-extract-as-a-potent-testosterone-booster/
- https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-664/stinging-nettle
- https://www.drugs.com/npp/nettles.html
- https://examine.com/supplements/stinging-nettle/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9253158/
