Horsetail
Equisetum arvense
A silica-rich ancient plant traditionally used as a gentle diuretic and for hair, nails, and connective tissue.
Traditional use (european-folk, indigenous-americas): A silica-rich ancient plant traditionally used as a gentle diuretic and for hair, nails, and connective tissue.
A silica-rich ancient plant traditionally used as a gentle diuretic and for hair, nails, and connective tissue.
Active constituents are under study; evidence ranges from traditional use to preliminary human trials.
- A silica-rich ancient plant traditionally used as a gentle diuretic and for hair, nails, and connective tissue.
Evidence strength: traditional use.
- See the evidence level above
- Contains thiaminase (can deplete B1) and trace nicotine; not for long-term use; correct species matters.
- Pregnancy
- Long-term use
- Kidney disease
Contains thiaminase (can deplete B1) and trace nicotine; not for long-term use; correct species matters.
May interact with prescription medications — review with a clinician if you take any.
Use caution in pregnancy, breastfeeding, for children, and with chronic disease unless cleared by a clinician.
Choose reputable, tested suppliers; correct identification is essential for wild-harvested plants.