nettle, a perennial herb (Urtica dioica) that is native to Europe and is now found throughout the United States and parts of Canada. See also stinging nettle. ▪ INDICATIONS: It is used as a diuretic and as a treatment for hay fever and shows some evidence of efficacy for these indications. ▪ CONTRAINDICATIONS: It should not be used during pregnancy and lactation, in children less than 2 years of age, or in people with hypersensitivity to this plant. It should be used only with caution in children and the elderly.
