Horsetail (Equisetum arvenseorE.
It’s also thought to help relieve fluid retention (edema), stop bleeding, and heal wounds.
However, horsetails safety and efficacy have not undergone enough rigorous research.
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Unprocessed horsetail containsthiaminase, an enzyme that breaks down thiamine (B1), which may causethiamine deficiencyover time.
Supplements labeled thiaminase-free are suggested.
That means some supplement products may not contain what the label says.
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Verywell / Getty Images
What Is Horsetail?
Horsetail (Equisetum arvenseorE.
arvense) is a perennial herb in the Equisetaceae family of plants.
Perennial means a plant returns every year and usually lives at least two years.
The horsetail plant is like a fern.
It has hollow, pointed stems and scaly leaves.
Horsetail grows to be one to two feet tall.
Certain components in horsetail are thought to lower inflammation and haveantioxidantproperties.
These minerals work together to help the body make healthy bone tissue and strengthen hair and nails.
Equisetum is derived from the Latin rootequus, meaning horse, andseta, meaning bristle.
Hence, the name horsetail.
Horsetail is also called bottlebrush.
It may occur in people going through menopause due to decreasedestrogenlevels.
Fast bone loss occurs in about 25% of postmenopausal women.
Its important to highlight that the two studies above were conducted in rats.
Not enough is known about the effects it will have in humans.
However, further investigation is needed to determine the exact mechanisms behind the effects.
Additionally, silicon is essential for optimal collagen synthesis, improving skin strength and elasticity.
Here are some examples of how much horsetail might be used for different conditions.
However, talk to your healthcare provider about the benefits and the dosage that’s right for you.
An overdose can occur if you take an amount larger than recommended.
What Are the Side Effects of Horsetail?
Despite its potential uses, horsetail may have side effects.
These side effects may be mild or severe.
Seek medical attention if you experiencepalpitations.
Avoid horsetail if you have an allergy to it or members of the Equisetaceae family.
Stop taking horsetail immediately if you experience any signs of allergic reaction.
Precautions
Horsetail has several known precautions.
Exercise caution if any of the situations listed below apply to you.
Interactions
If you are taking certain medications or other supplements, horsetail could affect how they work.
you might make horsetail tea by using teabags or a loose herb.
Summary
Horsetail is a plant that has been used for thousands of years.
However, more human studies are needed to clarify the efficacy and safety of horsetail.
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