Horsetail (Equisetum arvense)
The name Equisetum is derived from equus, "horse", and seta, "bristle".

Parts used:
Stems
The name Equisetum is derived from equus, "horse" and seta, "bristle."
Botany
Grows throughout Europe and in Asia as far as Turkey and Iran.
Constituents
Contains more than 10% inorganic compounds, two-thrids of which are silicic acid and potassium salts. Also contains significant levels of selenium, manganese and magnesium. Flavonoids are also abundant including : apigenin, luteolin, quercetun and genkwanin.
Possible interactions
Herbs - Possible with Areca (betel) nuts due to increase in thiamine deficiency. Drugs - None know.
Comments
The commission E approved internal use of horsetail herb in irrigation therapy for post-traumatic and static oedema and for bacterial infections and inflammation of the lower urinary tract. Horsetail extract is used medicinally to stimulate healing of broken bones, treat connective tissue injuries and to promote healthy etes, hair skin and nails. The essential element, silicon, is present in very large amounts in horsetail. Because silica is essential for growth and healing and is a major constituent of bones, cartillage, connective tissue and skin, horsetail is recommennded to prevent and treat disorders pertaining to these areas of the body.
Pharmacopeia and Other Monographs
German Commission E, BHP 1996.