Botanical Overview
Equisetum arvense, commonly known as field horsetail or common horsetail, is a fern ally of the family Equisetaceae native to temperate regions of Europe, North America, and Asia. The aerial parts, especially the sterile green stems, are used medicinally. It is recognized traditionally by names including Escale and Shavegrass.
Energetics
This herb possesses cooling and drying energetics with an astringent and bitter taste profile. It acts as a tonifying herb particularly supporting the body’s fluid systems.
Primary Actions
- Diuretic
- Astringent
- Wound healing
- Anti-inflammatory
- Demulcent
- Mineralizing
Indications
Western
- Urinary tract inflammation
- Kidney stones
- Wound healing
- Edema
- Osteoporosis
- Bleeding disorders
Syndromes
- Urinary tract infections
- Renal calculi prevention
- Prolonged bleeding
- Poor wound healing
- Osteopenia
TCM
- Frequent urination
- Leukorrhea
- Lower back pain
- Weak bones
Syndromes
- Kidney Yin deficiency
- Damp-heat in bladder
- Blood stasis
Ayurveda
- Urinary disorders
- Excessive bleeding
Syndromes
- Pitta disorders
- Vata imbalance
Unani
- Inflammation
- Wounds
- Edema
Syndromes
- Imbalance of Safra (yellow bile)
- Phlegm excess
Constituents & Mechanisms
Equisetum arvense is rich in silica, flavonoids, saponins, alkaloids, tannins, and ascorbic acid, contributing to its mineralizing, astringent, and anti-inflammatory effects.
Dosage & Preparations
- Infusion: 1-2 teaspoons of dried herb per cup, 1-3 times daily
- Tincture: 1:5 in 40% ethanol, 5-10 mL daily
- Extract capsules standardized to silica, as per label
Safety & Contraindications
Generally considered safe when used appropriately. Caution is advised for patients with kidney disease, those using lithium, and individuals with thiamine deficiency because horsetail contains thiaminase. Avoid during pregnancy and lactation due to a lack of safety data. Prolonged use may reduce Vitamin B1 levels.
Astrological Correspondences
Planetary ruler: Saturn; Elemental ruler: Earth
Selected References
- Phytotherapy: A Quick Reference to Herbal Medicine – Bradley, 2006
- European Medicines Agency (EMA) – Assessment Report on Equisetum arvense, 2015
- Medicinal Plants of the World – Volkart, 2018
- The Herbal Medicine-Maker’s Handbook – Katz, 2000