History
The Equistaceae family of plants has been on the planet for nearly 300 million years (that's not a typo). Horsetail is usually found in moist habitat and prefers non-chalky soil. It has separate sterile non-reproductive and fertile spore-bearing stems, growing from a perennial underground stem system. It spreads quickly by these spores and it's underground rootstock. One of it's common names; Bottlebrush refers to the "scratchy" nature of the stems as well as the shape of the plant. The plant is just plain high in Silica, which gives it this gritty texture.
Function
Traditionally this plant has been used to support the urinary tract, kidneys and connective tissues. As stated above it contains a soluble source of silica, a mineral known to be essential in the development of healthy hair, skin and nails. It is also a good source of the flavonoids quercitin 3 glucoside and luteolin. Antioxidants support a healthy inflammatory response.
Uses of Horsetail
This information in our Herbal Reference Guide is intended only as a general reference for further exploration, and is not a replacement for professional health advice. This content does not provide dosage information, format recommendations, toxicity levels, or possible interactions with prescription drugs. Accordingly, this information should be used only under the direct supervision of a qualified health practitioner such as a naturopathic physician.
