Horsetail - Equisetum arvense

Horsetail is an ancient plant which has been found fossilized with dinosaur bones. It contains up to 25% silica, a component of skin and bones. It is anti-inflammatory and may help increase collagen production. It is styptic and antimicrobial and so may help accelerate the healing of minor burns and wounds. It contains alkaloids, carbohydrates, proteins and amino acids, phytosterols, saponins, sterols, ascorbic acid, silicic acid, phenol, tannin, flavonoids, triterpenoids, and volatile oils.

It is possible that plant-based traditional remedies can be effective in preventing and treating osteoporosis. Silica has been shown to have a positive effect on bone mineralization. While the mechanism is not fully understood some studies have indicated that it could be involved in collagen synthesis. (JUGDAOHSINGH, R.. 2007. "SILICON AND BONE HEALTH." J Nutr Health Aging 11 (2) :99–110.).

A diet rich in fruits and vegetables plus extra vitamins is widely accepted as a part of osteoporosis treatment. Studies have shown that a treatment of vitamins and minerals plus horsetail plant (Equisetum arvense) is more effective in animals for bone mineralization than raloxifene, the standard drug treatment, or vitamins and minerals alone. (Kotwal, Swati D. and Badole, Smita R..2016. "Anabolic therapy with Equisetum arvense along with bone mineralizing nutrients in ovariectomized rat model of osteoporosis." Indian J Pharmacol. 48 (3) :312–315. 10.4103/0253-7613.182880.).

Collagen is a necessary part of all our connective tissues, but it declines as we age. Horsetail may be helpful for nails and hair, and surgical scars by stimulating collagen production. It can be used as a tooth powder. It is abrasive, however, so use judiciously, and not every day.

A hydroethanolic extract of horsetail demonstrated antiviral and virucidal activity against HSV-2, by preventing viral absorption.

Suggested dosing: Tincture 1-2 ml per day

Possible side effects: Diarrhea, increased urination, and vitamin B1 deficiency

Contraindications: Do not use it if pregnant or breastfeeding.

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose or treat any illness. I am not a medical professional and cannot diagnose or treat any illness.