Field Horsetail (Equisetum arvense)

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Botanical Information

• Family: Equisetaceae
• Common Names: Field Horsetail, Common Horsetail, Shavegrass, Scouring Rush
• Parts Used: Aerial parts (stems)

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Description

Equisetum arvense is a perennial herbaceous plant found in temperate regions across Europe, Asia, and North America. It is easily recognized by its jointed, hollow stems and high silica content. Traditionally, it has been used for strengthening bones, supporting urinary health, and improving hair and skin conditions.

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Historical and Traditional Uses

• Used since ancient Roman and Greek times for wound healing and bone fractures.
• Employed in European folk medicine as a diuretic and kidney tonic.
• Traditionally used to strengthen hair, nails, and skin.

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Constituents

• Silica (important for connective tissue and bone health)
• Flavonoids
• Alkaloids (including nicotine in small amounts)
• Tannins
• Saponins
• Minerals (potassium, calcium, magnesium)

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Actions

• Diuretic
• Astringent
• Anti-inflammatory
• Hemostatic (stops bleeding)
• Bone and connective tissue tonic

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Medicinal Uses

1. Urinary Tract Health:
Traditionally used to support kidney function, reduce fluid retention, and help with urinary tract infections.

2. Bone and Joint Support:
Rich in silica, horsetail is used to promote bone healing and strengthen connective tissue, useful in osteoporosis and arthritis support.

3. Wound Healing and Skin Health:
Applied topically for wound healing, burns, and ulcers, as well as internally for skin elasticity.

4. Hair and Nail Strengthening:
Silica content helps improve brittle nails and weak hair, often included in hair growth formulas.

5. Respiratory Health:
Used in some traditions for lung congestion and as an expectorant.

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Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea):

• 1-2 tsp of dried herb per cup of boiling water. Steep for 10-15 minutes and drink up to twice daily.

Tincture:

• 2-5 ml taken up to 3 times daily.

Poultice (Topical Use):

• Crushed fresh or dried herb applied to wounds, ulcers, or joint pain areas.

Hair and Skin Rinse:

• Infused horsetail water is used as a rinse for strengthening hair and soothing skin.

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Precautions and Contraindications

• Pregnancy and Lactation: Use with caution; consult a healthcare provider before use.
• Kidney Disorders: May not be suitable for individuals with severe kidney conditions.
• Thiamine Deficiency: Prolonged use may interfere with vitamin B1 absorption.
• Drug Interactions: Can enhance the effects of diuretics and blood pressure medications.

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Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

• Traditional Western Herbalism: Cooling and drying; supports the kidneys, bones, and skin.
• Traditional European Medicine: Used as a wound healer and remineralizer.
• Ayurveda: Balancing for Kapha and Pitta, but may increase Vata in excess.

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Combinations

• For Bone Health: Combine with nettle and oat straw.
• For Kidney Support: Combine with dandelion and uva-ursi.
• For Hair and Nail Strengthening: Combine with rosemary and gotu kola.

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Harvesting and Storage

• Harvesting: Aerial parts are collected in summer when the plant is actively growing.
• Drying: Air dry in a well-ventilated, shaded area.
• Storage: Store dried plant material in an airtight container away from moisture and light.

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Modern Research

Studies confirm Equisetum arvense’s benefits for bone density, urinary health, and connective tissue support, reinforcing its traditional medicinal applications.

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Field Horsetail remains a valuable herb in traditional and modern herbal medicine, particularly for urinary health, bone support, and hair and skin strengthening.