Horsetail is an herbal plant that has green shoots. The plant grows in moist areas in Europe, Asia and North America. The shoots can be used as either fresh herbs or dried herbs. The herb has been used for centuries and was used by the famous Roman physician Galen to treat a number of different conditions. In the present day, horsetail is used to treat various medical ailments which include: osteoporosis, kidney and even minor cuts.
Horsetail as Treatment for Osteoporosis
Horsetail can be an effective treatment for osteoporosis. According to the University of Texas, horsetail can be used to slow down the progress of osteoporosis. Silicon is a compound that is found in horsetail. Silicon is a mineral that is necessary for healthy bones and fingernails. In fact, the University of Texas reports that the silicon can help strengthen the bones in osteoporosis patients. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, osteoporosis patients can take 270 milligrams of a horsetail and calcium combination twice daily to help with strengthening the bones. However, more research needs to be done on this subject to be sure of the actual benefits of horsetail to osteoporosis patients.
Horsetail as a Diuretic Treatment
Horsetail has been used by many other cultures throughout history as a diuretic. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, horsetail was traditionally used as a diuretic because it helps to rid the body of excess fluid and also helps to increase urine output. For this reason, horsetail is a good treatment for edema or fluid retention. According to the University of Texas, horsetail has also historically been used to treat urinary tract infections and to help with the treatment of kidney stones. However, little research has been done on the subject of urinary tract infections and kidney stones so more research needs to be done to be sure of the efficacy of this treatment.
Horsetail for Treatment of Minor Cuts and Scrapes
According to the Physician Drug Reference (PDR) for Herbal Medicine, the German Commission E, which is an expert panel on herbs, has approved the use of horsetail for the treatment of minor wounds and burns. Purchasing an astringent made of horsetail from the local health food store is a beneficial way to treat minor cuts and scrapes. To use this remedy, first wash the wound and then take a small amount of the astringent on a cotton ball and rub on the cut or scrape. Covering the wound with a bandage afterward helps to protect it against becoming contaminated and allows the remedy to work. However, always remember that essential oils should be diluted before putting them directly on a wound because essential oils are usually very strong. Also, never place horsetail essential oil astringent on open wounds because it is not strong enough to stave off infections and this can cause more harm than good. Therefore, anyone with a large, open wound should immediately see a physician for assistance.
Sources:
The University of Texas at El Paso; "Horsetail"; (Accessed May18, 2010);
The University of Maryland Medical Center; "Horsetail"; (Accessed May 18, 2010;
The PDR for Herbal Medicines; Thompson Health Care; 2007;
Kristie Jernigan - Kristie Janeway Jernigan has worked in the health care arena for over 20 years. She has a Masters degree in Health Administration and is ...
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