Properties of Horsetail

Horsetail is an herb that has been used for its health benefits since the ancient Greek and Roman empires. The herb can treat wounds and help stop bleeding. Horsetail is available in liquid or dried herb form.

Plant Facts

• Horsetail is a perennial closely related to the fern. It grows throughout North America, Europe and Asia. The plant has stems and shoots that resemble asparagus.

Properties

• The horsetail herb has diuretic properties that may aid in the treatment of kidney stones and urinary tract infections. The remedy also may increase bone density and support the treatment of osteoporosis.

Uses

• Horsetail is used externally to treat first-degree burns, sprains and fractures. This herb may promote wound healing, but it should not be used to treat open wounds.

Drug Interactions

• Horsetail's diuretic effects can cause interactions with digoxin, phenytoin and other drugs. Patients who take prescription drugs should discuss the potential effects of horsetail with their doctors.

Precautions

• Horsetail remedies prepared from the Equisetum arvense species of horsetail are safe in many cases, but the Equisetum palustre horsetail species is poisonous to horses and should not be used by people.

Warnings

• Horsetail use may deplete levels of vitamin B1 in the body. Patients with kidney disorders or heart conditions should not use this herb.