How to Take Horsetail for Health

Horsetail (Equisetum arvense) is a non-flowering tree-like plant with stems that grows up to 2 feet tall. It is widespread and not native to any particular area. The aerial parts of the plant are used medicinally. The following steps will help you decide whether or not to take this herbal supplement.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Read about the historical uses of horsetail. It has been used at least since Greek and Roman times to treat bleeding, tuberculosis, ulcers and kidney disorders.
2. Look at the modern uses of horsetail. It has not been studied extensively in humans, and the Food and Drug Administration has not approved it for use in the treatment of any ailment. However, professional herbalists do recognize its diuretic properties and use it to treat kidney stones and urinary tract infections.
3. Buy horsetail from a reputable source. It is generally considered safe but another species, such as Equisetum palustre, is poisonous to horses and should never be ingested.
4. Take no more than the recommended dosage. When prepared in capsule form, it should be standardized to contain 10 to 15 percent silica. A 300 mg capsule may be taken three times per day with plenty of fluid. It is also taken as a tea of 2 to 3 teaspoons in a cup of hot water three times per day.
5. Study the side effects of horsetail. It may deplete vitamin B6 in the body. It should not be taken for a prolonged period or if you drink alcohol. Horsetail is also contraindicated if you have heart or kidney problems.