Downy hemp-nettle

• TeaAerial partsInternalCommission E

  Commission E gave Galeopsidis herba a positive assessment as a supportive remedy for mild catarrhs of the respiratory tract. The weak expectorant effect is attributed to saponins, the astringent and soothing effect to tannins and silicic acid. Overall the clinical evidence is weak.

  Preparation & dosage

  Pour 150 ml of boiling water over about 2 g (1 teaspoon) of dried hemp-nettle herb, cover and steep for 10 minutes, then strain. Drink a freshly prepared cup several times a day (daily dose about 6 g).

  Dry amount

  2–2 g

  Doses per day

  3×

  Max duration

  4 weeks

  Sources: [4] [5] [6]

• TeaAerial partsInternalTraditional use

  In folk medicine the tea from the aerial parts is regarded as a mild expectorant ('mucus-softening') because of its saponin and silicic acid content. The effect is traditionally reported, not clinically proven.

  Preparation & dosage

  Prepare as an infusion from the flowering herb; traditionally drunk to ease the expectoration of viscous mucus.

  Dry amount

  2–3 g

  Doses per day

  3×

  Max duration

  4 weeks

  Sources: [1] [4] [7]

• GargleAerial partsExternalFolk medicine

  Because of its astringent tannins the infusion was used in folk practice as a gargle for irritations of the mouth and throat. Purely empirical use without clinical evidence.

  Preparation & dosage

  Use a stronger infusion (about 3 g per 150 ml water, steeped 10 minutes, cooled) as a gargle. Do not swallow; gargle and spit out.

  Sources: [6] [8]

• TeaAerial partsInternalFolk medicine

  Older folk medicine used a decoction for whooping cough, bronchitis and tracheitis. This is only of historical significance and not supported by studies.

  Preparation & dosage

  Historically used as a decoction of the flowering herb. For whooping cough in children only after medical advice; today superseded by safer treatments.

  Dry amount

  2–3 g

  Doses per day

  3×

  Max duration

  3 weeks

  Sources: [7] [8] [9]

• TeaAerial partsInternalFolk medicine

  Hemp-nettle herb was traditionally credited with a weak diuretic effect. This use is purely empirical and unproven.

  Preparation & dosage

  Infusion of the herb; used in folk practice as a mildly diuretic drink. Ensure adequate fluid intake.

  Dry amount

  2–2 g

  Doses per day

  2×

  Max duration

  2 weeks

  Sources: [4] [7]

• CompressLeafExternalFolk medicine

  Externally, fresh crushed leaves were applied in folk practice for superficial swellings and skin irritations. This use is not sufficiently scientifically substantiated.

  Preparation & dosage

  Apply fresh, crushed leaves as a poultice to the affected skin area. Do not apply to open wounds. Not sufficiently scientifically substantiated.

  Sources: [6] [9]

Downy hemp-nettle is a traditional folk remedy with only weak efficacy; persistent cough, fever or shortness of breath require medical evaluation. Within the genus Galeopsis some species are considered potentially poisonous (paralysis has been reported), and the drug material can be adulterated with other hemp-nettle species. Do not use continuously for several weeks.

⏱ Max continuous use: 4 weeks