It has diuretic, astringent and regenerating properties. Horsetail is an excellent ally for health and aesthetics. Let's get to know some of its most interesting properties.Horsetail is one of the wild species used since ancient times that offers us a large number of benefits. It is a powerful medicinal plant that grows in humid climates, however, considered a “weed” by farmers. In the following article you will be able to learn what it is for and what the properties of horsetail are. Don't miss it!
How do you use horsetail?
There are different presentations that we can choose to take advantage of the benefits of this plant:
- Infusion: it is made like any tea, adding a tablespoon of horsetail for each cup of boiling water. It can be sweetened with honey because the taste is somewhat bitter.
- In tincture: it is purchased in health food stores and used topically.
- In baths: add the herb to cold water and let it pass for 13 hours before submerging your feet for half an hour.
- In capsules: the pills are available in health food stores.
- In creams and gels: They are used to combat cellulite. Apply once a day and massage until completely absorbed.
- In shampoo: A more concentrated tea is prepared than if it were to be drunk and, once cold, it is added to the usual shampoo. Use 2 times a week.
Properties of horsetail for internal use
The benefits of this herb are numerous. Here we detail some of the most notable ones:
- It is diuretic
- It helps us eliminate water and increases urine production by up to 30%. It is used to lose weight and get rid of accumulated fat in the belly, for example. It is used in cases of:
- Fluid retention
- Obesity
- Excess uric acid
- Arthritis
- Drop
- In addition, it prevents and treats many diseases of the urinary system, reduces the chances of developing kidney stones and prostate problems in men.
- Stops bleeding
- Horsetail has pectic and gallic acids that prevent bleeding. It is used in:
- Uterine bleeding
- nose bleeds
- Presence of blood in the urine
- Metrorrhagia (heavy menstruation)
- Strengthens bones
Thanks to its silicon content. It is recommended to consume horsetail for older people or those who have suffered a fracture. Consumption of this plant helps strengthen bones, fixes calcium and helps the body retain it longer. The horsetail also prevents the tendons from breaking when exerting effort or exercise. It is ideal for ligament tears, muscle strains, dislocations and also to prevent osteoporosis in women in menopause.
Improves hair and nails
Again we have to talk about silicon as one of the beneficial properties of horsetail. Helps prevent baldness and the appearance of dandruff. It also strengthens brittle nails and allows them to grow faster.
Properties of horsetail for external use
If you choose to apply this herb topically you will be able to enjoy the following benefits:
Treats skin diseases
If you have eczema, dermatitis or any other skin problem, horsetail is perfect for reducing symptoms. It is also used in wounds whose healing and scarring is difficult.
Cure visual problems
This herb is good for treating inflamed eyes, styes and conjunctivitis, but also itching and eye irritations. Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, it is a natural and effective method to prevent glaucoma, myopia and astigmatism.
Reduces female infections
Women who suffer from certain vaginal inflammations or infections can do sitz baths with horsetail. Its healing properties relieve symptoms instantly. It is also used in case of hemorrhoids, especially when they bleed.
Delays aging
The antioxidant action of this plant prevents the premature appearance of wrinkles on the skin, especially on the face. As it has regenerating properties, it reduces the marks and expression lines that appear from moving the mouth or eyes.
It is slimming and anti-cellulite
Massages made with the infusion of this plant reduce fat nodules that accumulate in various parts of the body. It also helps to lose weight in the hips, thighs and belly area due to its reducing capabilities.
Contraindications and toxicity of horsetail
This plant, however, has some substances that, consumed in excess, can become toxic and dangerous for the body. The side effects of consuming horsetail can be:
- Digestive problems
- Headaches
- Nervousness
- Loss of appetite
- Depression
- Muscular weakness
- Irritated gastric mucosa
- Arrhythmias
- Lack of coordination
- Pulse acceleration
- Gastrointestinal disorders
It can be an abortive plant due to its oxytocic properties (in small concentrations it is used to accelerate labor and avoid the typical pain). It is contraindicated in pregnant women and when they are breastfeeding their baby.
Veride contains horsetail, making it an effective assistant in the prevention of kidney and gallbladder diseases, mainly, as well as the bladder and liver.
