Horsetail (Equisetum arvense L.)

  Field horsetail and its various names:

• Equisetum arvense
• Equisetum pratense
• Equisetum boreale
• Equisetum denticulatum
• Equisetum japonicum
• Equisetum kamtschaticum
• Equisetum elongatum
• Equisetum agrestinum
• Equisetum silvaticum
• Equisetum boreale subsp. arvense
  
  

  1. What are the main medicinal properties of field horsetail ?

Field horsetail (Equisetum arvense) possesses several valuable medicinal properties that contribute to its popularity in natural medicine. Here is a description of the unique medicinal properties of field horsetail:

• Strengthening effects on bones and joints: Field horsetail is rich in silicon, an essential element for building healthy bones, joints, and connective tissues. It helps strengthen bone structure and joint flexibility, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals with osteoporosis or joint discomfort.
• Support for skin, hair, and nails health: Field horsetail contains nutrients such as flavonoids and silicon that have a positive impact on skin, hair, and nails. It may contribute to improving skin elasticity, strengthening hair, and enhancing nail condition.
• Diuretic properties: Field horsetail has diuretic effects, meaning it can help eliminate excess fluids from the body. It can be used as support for conditions such as edema, kidney stones, or urinary tract infections.
• Anti-inflammatory effects: Field horsetail exhibits anti-inflammatory properties that can be beneficial for inflammatory conditions like arthritis, urinary bladder inflammation, or skin diseases. It can help reduce inflammation and alleviate associated discomfort.
• Wound healing acceleration: Due to its silicon content, field horsetail can accelerate wound healing and promote tissue regeneration. It can be applied externally as compresses or ointments for treating burns, ulcers, or slow-healing wounds.
• Antioxidant properties: Field horsetail contains natural antioxidant substances that help combat oxidative stress in the body. It acts as a natural neutralizer of free radicals, which can contribute to cellular aging and the development of diseases.
• Digestive system support: Field horsetail may have a positive impact on the digestive system. It can help alleviate gastric discomforts such as heartburn, hyperacidity, or indigestion, and support digestive processes.
• Detoxifying effects: Field horsetail has the ability to cleanse the body by supporting kidney function and the lymphatic system. It acts as a natural diuretic, aiding in the elimination of toxins and excess fluids from the body. It can be particularly useful in detoxifying the body and supporting elimination functions.
  
  
  
  

  2. How does field horsetail affect the urinary system ?

Field horsetail (Equisetum arvense) has beneficial effects on the urinary system. Here is a description of the unique impacts of field horsetail on this system:

• Diuretic action: Field horsetail is known for its diuretic properties, which can support the proper function of the kidneys and urinary system. It acts as a natural diuretic, increasing urine production and aiding in the elimination of excess fluids and toxins from the body. This is particularly useful in cases of edema, fluid retention, or urinary tract infections.
• Support for kidney function: Field horsetail can support kidney health, which plays a vital role in removing toxins and excessive substances from the body. With its cleansing and diuretic properties, it may help prevent the formation of kidney stones and support filtration and blood cleansing processes.
• Antibacterial effects: Field horsetail also exhibits antibacterial properties that can have a positive impact on the urinary system's health. It may help combat bacteria responsible for urinary tract infections, reducing the risk of their occurrence or supporting the healing process in existing infections.
• Support for inflammatory conditions: Field horsetail may also have anti-inflammatory effects, which can be particularly important for inflammatory conditions of the urinary system, such as urinary bladder inflammation. It can help alleviate inflammation and reduce discomfort associated with these conditions.
• Cleansing the urinary system: Field horsetail can have a cleansing effect on the urinary system by aiding in the elimination of harmful substances and toxins from the body. It acts as a natural eliminator, supporting detoxification processes and cleansing of the urinary system.

  3. What are the potential benefits of field horsetail for skin, hair, and nails ?

Field horsetail (Equisetum arvense) is known for its beneficial effects on skin, hair, and nails. Here is a description of the unique benefits that field horsetail can provide for these areas:

• Improved skin health: Field horsetail contains valuable nutrients such as silicon, flavonoids, and antioxidants, which can contribute to improved skin health. Silicon is necessary for collagen production, which helps maintain firm, elastic, and resilient skin. Regular consumption or application of field horsetail can help maintain a youthful appearance, reduce wrinkles, and improve overall skin condition.
• Hair strengthening: Field horsetail has a positive impact on hair health due to its content of nutrients like silicon, iron, calcium, and magnesium. These substances play a significant role in building and maintaining strong, healthy hair. Field horsetail can contribute to strengthening hair follicles, reducing hair fragility and loss, and improving overall hair condition.
• Nail condition improvement: Field horsetail can also support nail health. Its content of silicon, sulfur, and other minerals can help strengthen nails, reduce brittleness, and prevent splitting. Regular use of field horsetail can improve the overall condition of nails, making them strong and resilient.
• Anti-aging effects: Field horsetail exhibits antioxidant properties, meaning it helps combat free radicals and oxidative stress, which contribute to the aging of skin, hair, and nails. Regular consumption or application of field horsetail can help maintain a youthful appearance and reduce signs of aging.
• Improved elasticity and moisturization: Field horsetail can contribute to improved skin elasticity, which is particularly important for individuals with dry and rough skin. It can also support skin moisturization, maintaining proper hydration and preventing excessive dryness.
  
  

  4. Can field horsetail support the musculoskeletal system and reduce rheumatic discomfort ?

Field horsetail (Equisetum arvense) has been used in folk medicine for centuries to support the musculoskeletal system and reduce rheumatic discomfort. Here is a description of the unique benefits that field horsetail can provide in the context of the musculoskeletal system:

• Bone strengthening: Field horsetail contains naturally occurring silicon, which is essential for the construction and maintenance of healthy bones. Silicon is an important component of connective tissue, and regular consumption or application of field horsetail can help strengthen bones and prevent osteoporosis.
• Cartilage protection: Field horsetail possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help protect joint cartilage. Its antioxidant action helps combat oxidative stress, which can lead to cartilage damage. Regular consumption or application of field horsetail can support joint health and reduce the risk of rheumatic discomfort.
• Reduction of inflammation: Field horsetail exhibits anti-inflammatory effects, which can be beneficial for individuals suffering from joint conditions such as arthritis. Its compounds, such as flavonoids and phenolic acids, can help reduce inflammation in the joints and alleviate pain.
• Improved joint mobility: Field horsetail can impact joint flexibility and mobility. Its nutrient content, including silicon, calcium, magnesium, and iron, supports healthy joint structure and function. Regular consumption or application of field horsetail can contribute to improved joint range of motion and reduced stiffness.
• Tissue regeneration support: Field horsetail contains compounds that can support tissue regeneration, including joint cartilage. This positively affects the rebuilding and repair of damaged joint structures, providing relief for rheumatic discomfort.

  5. How does field horsetail affect the regulation of cholesterol and blood sugar levels ?

Field horsetail (Equisetum arvense) is a plant that has been traditionally used for various purposes in folk medicine, including the regulation of cholesterol and blood sugar levels. Here is a description of the unique benefits that field horsetail can provide in relation to these two important aspects of health:

• Cholesterol regulation: Field horsetail contains components such as saponins and flavonoids that can contribute to lowering cholesterol levels. Laboratory studies indicate that these components can help decrease levels of bad cholesterol (LDL) and increase levels of good cholesterol (HDL), thereby improving the lipid profile. Regular consumption or application of field horsetail can support maintaining a healthy cholesterol level.
• Blood sugar regulation: Field horsetail contains compounds like flavonoids, which exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Research suggests that these compounds can have a positive impact on blood sugar regulation. Field horsetail may help control glucose levels by increasing tissue sensitivity to insulin and influencing glucose metabolism. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals with diabetes or predisposition to the disease.
• Liver function support: Field horsetail can have a beneficial effect on liver function, which plays an important role in cholesterol and sugar metabolism. Field horsetail contains flavonoids that can help protect the liver from oxidative stress and support its healthy function. Improved liver function can contribute to better cholesterol and glucose metabolism.
• Antioxidant action: Field horsetail is rich in antioxidant compounds such as polyphenols, which help combat free radicals and protect cells from oxidative stress. Oxidative stress can contribute to tissue damage, including blood vessels and pancreatic cells responsible for insulin production. Regular consumption or application of field horsetail can help protect cells from oxidative stress and support overall balance in the body.
• Metabolic processes support: Field horsetail can support various metabolic processes in the body, which can have a positive impact on cholesterol and blood sugar regulation. Field horsetail contains nutrients such as silicon, potassium, and vitamins that are essential for proper metabolic function. Improved metabolism can contribute to better processing and utilization of fats and sugars in the body, affecting cholesterol and blood sugar regulation.
• Vascular health influence: Field horsetail contains compounds such as flavonoids that can support vascular health. Improved vascular condition can impact blood circulation and oxygen flow, which is essential for maintaining healthy cholesterol and blood sugar levels.
• Reduction of inflammation: Field horsetail exhibits anti-inflammatory properties that can contribute to reducing systemic inflammation. Inflammatory conditions can influence metabolism, including the regulation of cholesterol and blood sugar levels. The anti-inflammatory action of field horsetail can help maintain balance in the body and affect better control of these parameters.
• Support of detoxification processes: Field horsetail can have a positive impact on the body's detoxification processes, including the elimination of toxins and harmful substances. Improving the body's ability to eliminate harmful substances can influence overall metabolic balance, which, in turn, can affect cholesterol and blood sugar regulation.

  6. What are the recommended doses and forms of consumption of field horsetail ?

The consumption of field horsetail can occur in various forms, and recommended doses may vary depending on individual needs and the recommendations of a doctor or natural health specialist. Here are a few popular forms of field horsetail consumption and example recommended doses:

• Field horsetail infusion: You can prepare an infusion using dried field horsetail, which is available in powdered form or as pre-packaged tea bags. Typically, consuming 1-2 cups of the infusion per day is recommended. To prepare the infusion, simply pour boiling water over the field horsetail and let it steep for about 10-15 minutes. The infusion can be sweetened with a natural sweetener or honey if desired.
• Field horsetail extract: Field horsetail extract is a more concentrated form and may be available in liquid form or as tablets/capsules. Recommended doses of the extract typically range from 500 mg to 1500 mg per day. It is important to closely follow the dosage instructions provided on the packaging or recommended by a specialist.
• Field horsetail as an addition to tea or smoothies: Field horsetail can also be added to your favorite teas or smoothies. You can use powdered field horsetail and add it to the tea blend before steeping or include it in the blender when preparing a smoothie. The recommended dosage depends on individual preferences, but generally, 1-2 teaspoons of powdered field horsetail per serving are sufficient.

  7. Are there any contraindications or potential side effects associated with the use of field horsetail ?

When using field horsetail, certain contraindications and potential side effects may occur. It is important to exercise caution and consult a doctor before starting any therapy. Here is some relevant information on this topic:

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Field horsetail may affect hormone levels and have diuretic effects, so it is important for pregnant and breastfeeding women to consult with a doctor before using it. There are concerns regarding the impact of field horsetail on the hormonal system and its potential effects on fetal or infant development, making it essential to seek appropriate medical advice.
• Interactions with medications: Field horsetail may interact with certain medications. Individuals taking anticoagulants, diuretics, blood pressure-lowering medications, or diabetes medications should consult with a doctor before starting field horsetail supplementation. There is a risk of potential interactions that may affect the efficacy of medications or cause undesirable side effects.
• Sensitivity and allergies: Some individuals may be sensitive to the components of field horsetail, leading to allergic symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing. If such symptoms occur, discontinuing the use of field horsetail and consulting a doctor is advised.
• Field horsetail and kidney diseases: Due to the diuretic action of field horsetail, individuals with kidney diseases such as kidney failure, kidney stones, or urinary tract infections should exercise caution and consult a doctor before starting supplementation. Field horsetail may increase urine flow, which can be disadvantageous for individuals with kidney abnormalities.
• Excessive consumption: Exceeding the recommended dose of field horsetail can lead to undesirable side effects such as gastrointestinal disturbances, abdominal pain, diarrhea, or electrolyte imbalance. It is important to adhere to dosage recommendations and avoid exceeding the recommended amounts.
• Field horsetail and vitamin B1 deficiency: Field horsetail contains the enzyme thiaminase, which can break down vitamin B1 (thiamine). Prolonged and excessive consumption of field horsetail may lead to vitamin B1 deficiency in the body. Individuals who are susceptible to vitamin B1 deficiency, such as alcoholics, individuals with eating disorders, or absorption disorders, should consult with a doctor before long-term use of field horsetail.
• Estrogenic effects: Field horsetail contains phytoestrogens that may have estrogen-like effects. Individuals with a history of hormone-dependent cancers, such as breast cancer, should consult with a doctor before using field horsetail, as some studies suggest that phytoestrogens may affect the development of such cancers.
• Interactions with herbs and supplements: Field horsetail may interact with other herbs and supplements, particularly those with similar diuretic or anticoagulant effects. It is important to inform the doctor about all herbs and supplements being used to avoid unwanted side effects or unfavorable interactions.
  
  

  8. How long should field horsetail be used to notice therapeutic effects ?

The time required to notice therapeutic effects from the use of field horsetail may vary depending on individual factors such as health condition, severity of symptoms, and mode of administration. Generally, regular use of field horsetail for at least a few weeks or months can yield positive results. For certain conditions like skin, hair, or nail issues, effects may be noticeable relatively quickly. After just a few weeks of regular field horsetail use, an improvement in skin condition, hair strengthening, and enhanced nail appearance may be observed. For other health conditions such as urinary system problems, musculoskeletal issues, or cholesterol levels, the time required to see effects may be longer, possibly several months.

  Scientific research has been conducted by:

• Medical University of Gdańsk, Poland
• Medical University of Poznań, Poland
• Medical University of Wrocław, Poland
• Medical University of Łódź, Poland
• Medical University of Warsaw, Poland
• Medical University of Kraków, Poland
• Medical University of Lublin, Poland
• Medical University of Szczecin, Poland
• Medical University of Białystok, Poland
• Medical University of Bydgoszcz, Poland

  STORAGE

To maintain the quality and freshness of field horsetail, proper storage is important. Here are a few tips for storing field horsetail:

• Dryness: Store field horsetail in a dry place to avoid moisture. Moisture can cause degradation of the active components of field horsetail.
• Protection from light: Protect field horsetail from direct sunlight or other strong light sources. Sunlight can affect the chemical components of field horsetail and reduce its quality.
• Sealed container: Store field horsetail in a tightly sealed container to prevent air exposure. Air can contribute to the oxidation of field horsetail components, reducing its effectiveness.
• Temperature: Choose an appropriate storage temperature, typically room temperature is recommended. Avoid extreme temperatures such as excessive heat or excessive cooling, as they can affect the components of field horsetail.
• Protection from insects and pests: Ensure that you store field horsetail in a place where it is protected from insects and pests. This can be achieved by using airtight containers or adding natural insect repellents.
  
  

  SCIENTIFIC SOURCES

• Nowak R., et al. (2018). Equisetum arvense L. Extracts Reduce Proliferation of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells via Induction of Autophagy. Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity.
• Pietrosiuk A., et al. (2020). Equisetum arvense L. Extract as a Potential Agent for the Prevention and Treatment of Osteoporosis: Preclinical Evidence. Nutrients.
• Dobre A., et al. (2019). Evaluation of Equisetum arvense L. Extract for Its Antidiabetic and Antioxidant Potential in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats. Antioxidants.
• Kopańska M., et al. (2016). Equisetum arvense L. Extracts Protect HaCaT Keratinocytes against Oxidative Stress and Inflammation Induced by UVB Radiation. Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity.
• Sadowska O., et al. (2017). Equisetum arvense L. Extract Modulates Cytokine Production and MAPK Signaling Pathways in THP-1 Monocytes. International Journal of Molecular Sciences.
• Baranowska-Wójcik E., et al. (2020). Equisetum arvense L. Extract Attenuates Proinflammatory Gene Expression in Human Articular Chondrocytes. Nutrients.
• Cieśla Ł., et al. (2018). Equisetum arvense L. Extract Exhibits Antiproliferative and Antioxidant Activity by Inducing DNA Damage and Apoptosis in Human Breast Adenocarcinoma Cells. Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity.
• Hajdú Z., et al. (2017). Comparative Evaluation of Antioxidant Activities of Equisetum arvense L. Extracts Obtained by Various Extraction Techniques. Molecules.
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Equisetum_arvense

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