Horsetail herb is a nutrient-rich herb that has been used for centuries to promote healthy skin, hair, and nails.
- Horsetail is also known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce swelling and pain.
- Silica-rich, it can be helpful for hair loss and brittle nails, as well as stimulate hair growth. It can be used internally and topically for this purpose.
- It strengthens connective tissue, including skin, tendons, and ligaments.
- Horsetail is also traditionally used as a diuretic due to its astringent and diuretic properties.
- It can be helpful in treating urinary tract infections, kidney stones, and edema.
- It is also sometimes used as a gargle for sore throats and canker sores.
Horsetail extract has a long history of use in traditional medicine. Today, it is commonly used as an herbal remedy for a variety of health conditions.
One of its most well-known uses is for skin care.
Horsetail herb extract is often used in natural skin care products due to its unique combination of beneficial properties. These properties include antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects.
Antioxidants help to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals. This damage can lead to premature ageing, fine lines, and wrinkles. The anti-inflammatory properties of horsetail extract can help to soothe irritated skin and reduce inflammation associated with acne breakouts. Finally, the antimicrobial effects of horsetail extract can help to heal wounds, burns, and rashes while also preventing infections.
When used correctly, horsetail extract can be a powerful tool for achieving healthy, youthful-looking skin.
Constituents of Horsetail :
The active constituents in horsetail are silicon, potassium, and magnesium. Horsetail is also rich in silica, which is necessary for healthy hair, nails, and skin. Horsetail’s astringent properties can help tone skin. The herb’s diuretic properties can help reduce fluid retention.
Silica-rich Horsetail can be helpful for hair loss and brittle nails. It strengthens connective tissue, including skin, tendons, and ligaments. The herb also has astringent properties.
How these active constituents work in your body:
- Silicon: strengthens connective tissue including skin, tendons, and ligaments
- Potassium: helps to regulate fluid balance in the body
- Magnesium: works as an anti-inflammatory agent
- Silica: necessary for healthy hair, nails, and skin
- Astringent properties: can help tone skin
- Diuretic properties: can help reduce fluid retention
The Horsetail Herb Plant:
This is a perennial herb that has been used medicinally for centuries. The plant grows in damp, shady areas and has slender, greenish-white stems with tiny leaves. It is rich in minerals, including silicon, potassium, and magnesium.
Horsetail grows almost everywhere, in the woods (loves the shade), and in moist soils, for the most part. You can grow your own! It’s super easy to care for but I recommend planting in containers indoors because of its spores, it can quickly take over your landscape!
Similar herbs to Horsetail
Other herbs that boast similar healthy benefits to horsetail include stinging nettle, comfrey, and coltsfoot. All three of these herbs are rich in nutrients like silica and chlorophyll, which are known to promote healthy skin, hair, and nails. They also all contain anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce swelling and pain. Like horsetail, these herbs can be consumed in a variety of ways, including as a tea, tincture, or capsule.
What does horsetail herb taste like?
Horsetail herbal tea has a grassy taste with a slightly bitter aftertaste. Some people compare the taste to asparagus. I personally enjoy the taste of horsetail tea and find it refreshing.
Dosage:
Horsetail herb can be found in supplements, teas, and topical preparations. There is no set dosage for horsetail herb, as it depends on the individual’s weight and health condition. However, a general guideline is to take 300-500 mg of the herb up to three times daily.
When taking horsetail in capsule form, a standard dose has 10% to 15% silica.
When taking it as an herbal infusion, 2 to 3 teaspoons of dried horsetail should be taken three times per day.
There are also some people who recommend taking horsetail as a tea, although there is no evidence to suggest that this is more effective than taking it in capsules or as an infusion. If you do choose to take horsetail as a tea, it is important to steep the herb for at least 10 minutes in order to release all of the active compounds.
How long does it take for horsetail to work?
Horsetail herb is a slow acting herb, so it may take several weeks to notice any effects at all. I started taking horsetail for my hair, skin, and nails and first noticed a difference in about two months, give or take. (I know! I should journal this stuff!)
I’ve found that with most herbs, it very generally takes a month for each year you’ve had the issue you’re trying to remedy. If you’ve had the issue for several years, the full benefits you expect would take several months. However that’s not to say that you won’t see some results sooner. You should feel progressive benefits over time.
Precautions:
It is typically safe when taken in recommended dosages, but it can cause stomach upset and diarrhea if taken in large amounts.
It is also important to avoid taking horsetail if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as it can promote uterine contractions.
Horsetail can interact with some medications, so speak with a healthcare provider before taking horsetail supplements. It is best to speak with a healthcare professional before beginning supplementation.
Horsetail FAQ / Quick Overview
Q: What are the benefits of horsetail?
A: Horsetail is a nutrient-rich herb that has been used for centuries to promote healthy skin, hair, and nails. It is also known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce swelling and pain.
Q: How do I take horsetail?
A: Horsetail can be consumed in a variety of ways, including as a tea, tincture, or capsule.
Q: Are there any side effects associated with horsetail?
A: Horsetail is generally considered safe when taken as directed. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any new supplement, as side effects are possible.
Disclosure: The product linked below is an affiliate offer. This means that, at zero cost to you, Herbsandnat will earn an affiliate commission if you click through and finalize a purchase. Your support is greatly appreciated!
Swanson Horsetail – Herbal SupplementSupports Healthy Hair, Skin & Nails – Natural Ingredients for Bone Health & Urinary Tract Support – (90 Capsules, 500mg Each) |