Horsetail
A mineral-rich connective-tissue tonic that strengthens bones, joints, hair, nails, and the vascular system. Horsetail is deeply restorative for tissues weakened by injury, chronic inflammation, or nutrient depletion, and offers additional benefits for the lungs, bladder, kidneys, and urinary system.
Equisetum derives from equus meaning “horse” and seta meaning “bristle,” referencing the plant’s reedlike appearance. Arvense means “of the field.” The Spanish name cañutillo—“little pipe”—refers to the plant’s hollow stems traditionally used by children to make whistles
Horsetail is renowned for strengthening and regenerating connective tissue, making it beneficial for preventing osteoporosis, reinforcing teeth, and accelerating the healing of broken bones, torn tendons, cartilage injuries, muscle strains, and post-surgical repair. Its affinity for the lungs and bladder improves elastic tissue integrity in both organs and aids recuperation from bronchitis, pneumonia, pleurisy, or chronic respiratory weakness.It supports individuals with heightened sensitivity to allergens, asthma, or leaky gut patterns and helps reduce mucus secretions, including bloody sputum. Low-dose tincture supports the urinary system in cases of frequent bladder infections, interstitial cystitis, or childhood enuresis—particularly when tissue weakness underlies recurring infections—though it should be paired with antimicrobial herbs when infection is present.Horsetail reduces edema, premenstrual water retention, and aids kidney flushing, gently enhancing urinary excretion of sodium, chloride, and potassium while reducing urethral burning. It also supports vascular integrity, helping treat varicose veins, bruising, and atherosclerotic tendencies.Its styptic and astringent nature makes it valuable for excessive or irregular menstrual bleeding, menopausal spotting, nosebleeds, bloody sputum, bleeding ulcers, ulcerative colitis, hemorrhoids, and minor blood in stool or urine.For hair, skin, and nails, horsetail improves strength, reduces split ends, restores luster, fortifies brittle nails, reduces hangnails, and works well internally or externally, often paired with nettle. Topically it reduces inflammation and bleeding from cuts, wounds, and ulcers, and as a gargle it soothes gum and mouth irritation. Energetically, it clears excess heat, pitta, and fiery emotional patterns from the mind and nervous system.
Once a prehistoric giant, horsetail grew as tall as trees. Indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest consumed young shoots and used teas as diuretics, postpartum support, and treatments for gonorrhea; roots eased teething pain; and poultices healed wounds. Powdered stems were added to horses’ water for strength and sprinkled into moccasins to prevent foot cramps during long journeys. Horsetail was also widely used for polishing wood, cleaning tools and dishes, and decorating baskets. It was one of the first plants to reappear after the 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens.
A genus of about fifteen rhizomatous perennial species with hollow, grooved, brittle stems that resemble reeds. Plants bear dimorphic stems—sterile vegetative stems and fertile reproductive stems. Leaves are reduced to whorled, scale-like structures fused into sheaths around the stem. Fertile stems end in cone-like strobili bearing peltate scales that release green spores. Plants spread extensively via creeping rhizomes and thrive in moist, silty, or sandy environments.
Sensitive individuals—including children or older adults—should use internal preparations cautiously, as the plant can be drying and its silica content may irritate the kidneys. Use low-dose tincture rather than tea when kidney sensitivity is present. Avoid entirely in cases of obstructive kidney stones, kidney inflammation, or edema due to impaired heart or kidney function.The diuretic action may potentially lower potassium levels in susceptible individuals.Never harvest horsetail from polluted waterways, as it can accumulate heavy metals and contaminants.
Fresh infertile stalks 1:2–1:3 (60–95% ethanol).
Dose: 5–60 drops up to 3× daily.
Fresh infertile stalks 1:3–1:4 in apple cider vinegar.
Dose: 1 tsp in water, up to 3× daily.
Hot infusion of infertile green stalks.
Dose: 4–8 ounces, 3–4× daily.
Fomentation, poultice, wash, salve, or alcohol-intermediary infused oil.
Dose: As needed.
Christina Sinadinos, David Hoffman, Bryan Bowen, all relevant CHSHS lectures.