Horsetail contains silicic acid, saponins, flavonoids, sterols, tannins, potassium, aluminum salts, manganese, magnesium, sulfur and calcium.
Historically, horsetail has been used to stop bleeding, repair broken bones and as an herbal remedy for arthritis.
It has also been beneficial in the treatment of dropsy, gravel and kidney infections, including ulceration and ulcers in the urinary passages.
Because horsetail has the ability to increase urine production, (a diuretic), it gained popularity as an herbal treatment of kidney stones, edema and urinary tract infections as well as cystitis.
This property can be attributed primarily to the presence of flavonoids.
The herb has been used to treat inflammation of the prostate gland, or benign enlargement of the prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia, BPH).
It is often used in combination with smooth hydrangea (Hydrangea arborescens) in the treatment of prostate problems. It has also been used as a supportive treatment for gout.
Before the advent of synthetic and more effective treatments, the herb was the principal remedy for tuberculosis.
Because horsetail is rich in silica and silicic acids it could be beneficial as an herbal treatment for osteoporosis.
Furthermore, silica may increase the production of white blood cells, which can result in a stronger immune system and improves the body’s resistance to infections. Silica also increases the elasticity and resistance of the skin and connective tissue.
The herb has hemostatic (promotes clotting by bleeding) properties and helps stop bleeding of ulcers and controls excessive menstrual bleeding.
The silicic acid content of the herb stimulates the absorption and utilization of calcium and prevents the deposition of fat in the arteries. The astringent properties strengthen vein walls and can be helpful for varicose veins.
Topical preparations of the herb can be used to heal wounds, sprains, fractures, and burns. It has been used as an herbal treatment for rheumatic conditions and skin problems such as dandruff.
Some studies support that horsetail could be helpful in improving memory and cognitive function.
The plant also had other uses than as a medicine. The dry stems have a high content of crystalline silicon and have been used to scrub metal and polish tin and wood. In the past, the herb was also used to dye wool yellow.
Herbal Resource
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