Horsetail (AKA Shavegrass) Herbal Tincture
The health benefits of horsetail (Equisetum arvense) have been known for centuries. The Roman physician Galen recommended it for arthritis, kidney and bladder problems, bleeding ulcers and tuberculosis. The Chinese used it for fevers, conjunctivitis, corneal disorders and also as a remedy for hemorrhoids, dysentery and flu.
The plant is high in silica, potassium, ascorbic acid, equisetonin and caffeic acid and all these contribute to the health benefits of horsetail.
Horsetail is one of the strongest diuretics in the plant kingdom. As it also has toning and astringent properties it makes a good treatment for incontinence and bed wetting. This ability to stimulate release of excess bodily fluids makes the plant extract a popular weight loss supplement. Other health benefits of horsetail as a diuretic and astringent include the treatment of urinary tract problems such as hastening the removal of kidney stones and the reduction of an enlarged prostrate gland. It also helps with treating urinary inflammation, hemorrhaging, cysts and ulcers. Horsetail is an effective astringent treatment of excess menstrual bleeding and also nose bleeds.
Silicic acid causes leucocytosis which is the increase of white blood cells. This in turn encourages increased calcium absorption thereby forming stronger bones and tendons. This makes horsetail effective for osteoporosis, anemia, wound treatment, scar tissue and general debility. Calcium also helps the fight against fatty deposits and cardiovascular problems and the silica treats lung damage caused by emphysema and tuberculosis.
Other health benefits of horsetail include the treatment of diarrhea, dysentery and bowel bleeding. It is effective in helping the healing of wounds, conjunctivitis and chilblains. As a gargling solution it can be taken for sore throats, mouth ulcers and bleeding gums. It might be used as a compress for sprains and fractures and it may even remove excessive lead accumulations.
Dosage suggestion:
Internally: 20-30 drops three times daily by mouth or diluted in some water
Externally: Horsetail Tincture is applied directly or diluted with some water to the skin to treat wounds and burns.
Ingredients: Horsetail, Grain Alcohol, Distilled Water