Horsetail, also known as Equisetum arvense, is one of the oldest plants on Earth, dating back to prehistoric times. Despite its modest appearance, this medicinal herb holds great value in traditional and modern herbal medicine – especially for supporting kidney health, urinary tract, and bone strength due to its high silica content.
🌱 What does it look like?
Horsetail typically grows in moist meadows, along rivers, and near wetlands. It has hollow, segmented stems that resemble small brushes or a horse’s tail – hence its name. The green, brush-like stalks are what’s used for medicinal purposes.
💚 Health Benefits
- Natural diuretic – promotes elimination of excess fluids
- Supports kidney and bladder health
- Strengthens bones, nails, and hair – due to rich silica content
- Promotes wound healing and skin regeneration
- Relieves joint pain in baths and compresses
⚠️ Caution: Not recommended for long-term use without medical supervision, as it may reduce potassium levels in the body.
☕ How to use it?
- Tea – made from the dried aerial parts; drink in moderation
- Compresses and baths – for skin conditions and joint issues
- Foot soaks – helpful for excessive sweating and fungal infections
- Tinctures or capsules – available in phytotherapy
🌼 In folk medicine
In traditional practices, horsetail was used for “cleansing the urine,” treating “sand in the kidneys,” and strengthening the body after illness. It was believed to restore vitality from within.
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