Horsetail herb comes from a distinctive plant that has two types of stems and grows in very wet ground. It is commonly found in North America and parts of Asia and was widely used by the Romans and the Ancient Greeks.
Horsetail extract and horsetail tea are the most popular methods of administering the herb, though the powdered herb can be purchased in capsule form.
The benefits of horsetail include:
- Repairing broken bones. The herb contains silica, which helps the body to absorb calcium, which is necessary for mending fractures.
- Strengthening hair and nails. The increased absorption of calcium helps the nails and hair to resist damage. It is also thought to be beneficial when white spots appear on the nails, as these are an indicator of low calcium levels. The horsetail herb will increase calcium absorption.
- Benefits of horsetail also include its diuretic action that helps to keep the bladder and kidneys functioning properly. It is useful for treating infections such as cystitis. It is also thought that it may be beneficial for children who suffer from bed wetting. Water retention can also be reduced, and it is thought that this quality can help to combat cellulite.
- Horsetail can be used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, as it has anti-inflammatory properties.
- It is useful for stopping bleeds, such as nosebleeds and easing excessive menstruation.
- The herb can be applied to wounds, as it has an astringent effect and keeps infection at bay.
- These astringent properties can also help to control oil production in the skin and hair.
- Taking a horsetail supplement can have a positive effect on calcium absorption, also making it a very useful treatment for osteoporosis.
- Horsetail is used in folk medicine to treat sprains and sports-related injuries.
- Drinking horsetail tea can help to treat minor edema and effectively put a stop to bleeding by encouraging clotting.
- The herb can be used to treat tuberculosis, as it is particularly effective when the patient is bringing up blood.
- Horsetail extract remedies can help to repair tissue damage.
- It has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help those who suffer from swellings in the legs and arthritis. This is also useful for problems with the digestive tract.
- A topical application can be effective on skin problems such as eczema.
- Gargling with an infusion of horsetail herb tea can be beneficial for sore throats, infections in the mouth, and bleeding gums.
- Powdered horsetail can be used as a poultice on sores, leg ulcers, and other wounds.
Horsetail Herb Side Effects
If taking a horsetail supplement, then fluid intake should also be increased, as its diuretic effects will cause the body to rid itself of a lot of fluids.
Those who have heart or kidney problems should not begin a course of treatment with horsetail. Those who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not take a horsetail supplement.