What is horsetail plant used for?
Horsetail is a plant. The above ground parts are used to make medicine. Horsetail is used for “fluid retention” (edema), kidney and bladder stones, urinary tract infections, the inability to control urination (incontinence), and general disturbances of the kidney and bladder. Medications for diabetes (Antidiabetes drugs) interacts with HORSETAIL. Horsetail might lower blood sugar levels. Taking horsetail along with diabetes medications might cause blood sugar to drop too low.In people with kidney disease, horsetail may increase potassium to unsafe levels. People with kidney disease generally should not use horsetail or other herbal supplements (31). Additionally, the plant contains nicotine, so you should avoid it if you have a nicotine allergy or want to quit smoking ( 32 ).People with heart or kidney disorders, diabetes, or gout should not use horsetail. DO NOT drink alcohol regularly while taking horsetail because horsetail may cause levels of thiamin to drop. Horsetail may flush potassium out of the body so people who are at risk for low potassium levels should not take Horsetail.Diabetes: Horsetail is thought to cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Low blood sugar levels can be life-threatening if not treated appropriately. Low potassium (hypokalemia): Horsetail has a diuretic effect. When you lose a lot of fluid from your body, you also lose a vital nutrient called potassium.
Is horsetail good for hair loss?
While horsetail has potential health benefits for hair due to its high silica content, there’s limited scientific evidence directly proving its effectiveness for significant hair growth. However, it’s also not known to be harmful as part of a skincare or hair care routine. In addition to silica, horsetail tea contains significant amounts of potassium, a vital mineral that supports heart health and regulates fluid balance in the body. This naturally occurring potassium content is largely responsible for the tea’s diuretic effect, promoting fluid balance and aiding in weight loss.The silica in horsetail has been shown to encourage hair growth and hair thickness. Using horsetail plant extract also impacts your collagen production in a positive way that will improve your hair health and overall look.People with heart or kidney disorders, diabetes, or gout should not use horsetail. DO NOT drink alcohol regularly while taking horsetail because horsetail may cause levels of thiamin to drop. Horsetail may flush potassium out of the body so people who are at risk for low potassium levels should not take Horsetail.Acts as a natural diuretic One small study in 36 healthy men determined that a daily dose of 900 mg of dried horsetail extract in capsule form had a more potent diuretic effect than a classic diuretic drug. This was attributed to the plant’s high antioxidant and mineral salt concentrations ( 9 ).Long-term consumption is not recommended due to the risk of thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency, as horsetail contains thiaminase, an enzyme that breaks down this essential vitamin. In rare cases, allergic reactions such as rash or itching may occur.
Is horsetail good for hair growth?
Horsetail extract is known to improve the circulation of your blood, which in turn leads to healthy hair follicles. It has antioxidant properties that also work as a detox for your hair and body. When your scalp gets enough blood, it increases its ability to produce more hair. Horsetail is a plant known for its high silica content, with a blend of vital nutrients to combat gray hair. Horsetail may supports healthy hair growth and enhances overall hair strength.Horsetail, a unique plant known for its high silicon content, has been associated with various therapeutic uses, including the treatment of brittle nails, osteoporosis, and rheumatoid arthritis.However, large quantities of rough horsetail ingested by humans or grazing animals can be toxic. In small quantities this plant will not harm people, and the toxicity can be destroyed by heat or thorough drying.What are the pros and cons of planting horsetail? Horsetail is pest and disease-resistant, provides vertical interest, and can fill in hard-to-grow areas of the garden. The downside to horsetail is maintaining its spread. This plant can get out of hand if left to grow on its own.
What are the health benefits of horsetail?
Today, horsetail herb is consumed as a tea, taken as an extract, as a topical ointment or cream, or in the form of pills for its potential health benefits, including improved hair, skin, and nail health, bone health, urinary and kidney conditions, and even to help lower blood sugars. Instructions for Horsetail Broth: Then boil for another 15 to 30 minutes. Then sieve out the plant parts and leave the brew to cool. Horsetail tea: If you’re in a hurry, you can also simply brew the horsetail as a tea and leave to infuse for 15 to 20 minutes. Then strain, leave to cool and you’re done.A horsetail tea may be made by boiling 2–4 teaspoons of the herb in one cup (250 ml) of water for five minutes. Steep the tea for an additional 15 minutes, strain, and drink two or three times daily. The tea can also be used externally as well as internally.Carefully rinse the horsetail in water to remove the sand and dirt (they are quite dirty). To dry the leaves, roughly cut them into 1–2 cm long. Place them on parchment paper evenly. Roast them in the oven at 220F until they are totally dried and be crumbled into pieces easily.