Samphire Neuroscience has raised $5 million in seed funding to expand its Nettle brain device for menstrual symptoms, following strong market reception since its European launch earlier this year.
The round was led by Nordic venture capital firm Inventure VC, with participation from US-based Fortify Ventures. The funding will support continued commercial expansion and development of the company’s neurotechnology platform targeting women’s health conditions.
Founded in 2021 by neuroscientist Emilė Radytė and legal expert Alex Cook, Samphire has developed Nettle, a CE-certified headband device that uses transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) to address mental and physical symptoms associated with menstruation. The device is worn for 20 minutes daily, typically during the five days before menstruation.
Since launching in Europe and the UK several weeks ago, the device has shown particular demand among individuals with premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), a condition that affects mood and can include depressive symptoms and anxiety.
Nettle targets the estimated 190 million people globally who live with chronic menstrual conditions, offering a non-hormonal alternative that doesn’t interact with existing medications. The device sold out twice during its pre-launch phase, demonstrating strong market demand for neurotechnology solutions in women’s health.
The latest funding builds on Samphire’s $2.3 million pre-seed round raised in February 2024, which was backed by investors including SOSV, FIRSTPICK, and several angel investors focused on women’s health. That earlier round supported the development and certification process for Nettle.
Clinical evidence from the CE certification process showed the device’s impact on improving mood, reducing pain, and enhancing daily functioning within a single month of use. User reviews have highlighted relief from extreme anxiety and depression during the luteal phase, with many noting the ease of incorporating the device into daily routines.
The company plans to expand distribution through partner clinics and pilot programs, including partnerships with NHS-affiliated care centers across the UK, while continuing to develop its direct-to-consumer channel.
