Horsetail P.E. (plant extract) Botanical Source: Equisetum arvense Appearance:Yellow Powder Specs Available:Silica, By HPLC 7% Active Compounds: Horsetail is very rich in silicic acid and silicates, which provide approximately 2-3% elemental silicon. Potassium, aluminum, and manganese along with fifteen different types of bioflavonoids are also found in the herb. The presence of these bioflavonoids are believed to cause the diuretic action, while the silicon content is said to exert a connective tissue-strengthening and anti-arthritic action. Some experts have suggested that the element silicon is a vital component for bone and cartilage formations This would indicate that horsetail may be beneficial in preventing osteoporosis. Anecdotal reports suggest that horsetail may be of some use in the treatment of brittle nails. The constituents are: Alkaloids, including nicotine, palustrine and palustrinine Flavonoids such as isoquercitrin and equicetrin Sterols including cholesterol, isofucosterol, campesterol. Silicic acid. Misc: a saponin equisitonin, dimethylsulphone, thiaminase & aconitic acid. History: Since it was recommended by the Roman physician Galen, several cultures have employed horsetail as a folk remedy for kidney and bladder troubles, arthritis, bleeding ulcers, and tuberculosis. Additionally, the topical use of horsetail is said to stop the bleeding of wounds and promote rapid healing. The use of this herb as an abrasive cleanser to scour pots or shave wood illustrates the origin of horsetail's common names-scouring rush and shave grass. Remedies For: Astringent, diuretic, vulnerary, diaphoretic Horsetail is useful for: Brittle nails Osteoarthritis Osteoporosis Rheumatoid arthriti Water retention Arthritis: Horsetail absorbs gold dissolved in water better than most plants, as much as 4 ounces per ton of fresh stalks. Small amounts of gold is found useful for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, and the Chinese used horsetail for this disease. Diuretic: Horsetail contains a weak diuretic chemical lending support to its traditional use as a urinary stimulant. Horsetail is also useful for water retention. Horsetail is an excellent astringent for the genito-urinary system, reducing hemorrhage and healing wounds thanks to the high silica content. It acts as a mild diuretic. It is also invaluable in the treatment of incontinence and bed wetting in children. It is considered a specific in cases of inflammation or benign enlargement of the prostate gland. Externally it is a vulnerary. In some cases it has been found to ease the pain of rheumatism and stimulate the healing of chilblains. Combinations : Horsetail is often combined with Hydrangea in the treatment of prostate troubles. Traditional Chinese Medicine: Chinese medicine uses horsetail for such ailments as bloodshot eyes and conjunctivitis. Because it is rich in trace minerals, it is excellent as a semi-regular tonic. For more information please contact us: