urtica ferox extract

Urtica ferox extract is a topical botanical extract derived from the stinging hairs (trichomes) of Urtica ferox (commonly known as ongaonga or the New Zealand tree nettle). It is being investigated as a potential novel topical treatment for pain, specifically chronic and neuropathic pain. The plant is notable for causing intense pain upon contact followed by sustained numbness, and it is this sustained numbing effect that underlies its therapeutic interest. The extract is prepared via water extraction of the plant's trichomes. While the exact active compounds responsible for the sustained numbness have not been fully identified, research has characterized peptide toxins in the extract, including Delta-Uf1a (a cytotoxic thionin) and beta/delta-Uf2a (a neurotoxin that modulates voltage-gated sodium channels, NaV channels). A completed exploratory clinical trial in New Zealand assessed whether topical application of Urtica ferox extract alters thermal sensation and pain thresholds on the volar forearm compared with topical 4% lidocaine and placebo.

Other names

ongaonga extractNew Zealand tree nettle extract