Horsetail: Properties and What It Is Used For

Horsetail is a highly sought-after ingredient among food supplements because of its benefits and properties. But did you know that this is not a new interest? It is an ancient plant that has been studied and used for centuries.

Horsetail: what is it really?

What is commonly known as “horsetail” is actually the plant Equisetum arvense. It is a plant with a long, branched appearance that resembles a horse’s tail, which is where its common name comes from.

It grows wild in temperate, damp areas of Europe, Asia and North America. The stem is the part that is used, and this is where its active compounds are extracted from.

What is horsetail used for?

Because of its active compounds, horsetail is used:

• As a natural diuretic.
• To support calcium fixation in the bones.
• As a hair-strengthening ingredient.
• To help treat scars.

Properties of horsetail and its active compounds

Horsetail has been known for its many medicinal benefits for centuries, and this is thanks to its composition and the active compounds of interest that it provides:

• Saponins: these provide the diuretic and detoxifying effect, which are its best known and most representative actions.
• Flavonoids: these give horsetail anti-inflammatory and antioxidant power, helping to prevent cell deterioration.
• Silica: this helps strengthen hair, nails and skin.
• Minerals: to help maintain electrolyte balance.

Horsetail: when is it recommended?

Because of its many properties, horsetail is recommended for:

• Weight-loss diets.
• Detox treatments.
• Fluid retention.
• Swollen legs.
• Tired legs syndrome.

• Mild oedema.
• Urinary infections or cystitis.
• Inflammatory processes.
• Improving the appearance and strength of skin, hair and nails.
• Supporting bone tissue recovery and osteoporosis.
• Healing of already closed wounds.

How is horsetail used?

Because of its many benefits, horsetail can be used for different purposes and, for that reason, it can be found in several formats:

• Infusion: especially indicated to help eliminate fluids.
• Capsules: as a food supplement to benefit from its antioxidant power and diuretic properties.
• Topical application: as a healing aid.

Contraindications of horsetail

Although horsetail stands out for being beneficial and versatile, there are also risks linked to taking it. We should be cautious in certain situations and avoid using it in cases of:

• Pregnancy or breastfeeding, as there are not enough studies to guarantee its safety.
• Prolonged use without supervision.
• Low potassium levels.
• High blood pressure or low blood pressure.
• Heart problems.
• Ulcers in the digestive system.
• Respiratory conditions.
• Babies or children.

Like any food supplement, horsetail should be taken under medical supervision if its use will be more prolonged than normal, if there is an existing health condition or if you are taking any medication.