* Detox, urinary infections and problems, Prostate enlargment and infections, urinary incontinence in elderly and bed-wetting in children, etc

Names: Equisetum arvense
Organically grown in Croatia
Part Used: Dried aerial stems

Constituents:

•  Alkaloids, including nicotine, palustrine and palustrinine
•  Flavonoids such as isoquercitrin and equicetrin
•  Sterols including cholesterol, isofucosterol, campesterol
•  Silicic acid
• Misc: a saponin equisitonin, dimethylsulphone, thiaminase & aconitic acid

Actions:

• astringent
• diuretic
• urinary astringent
• vulnerary

Indications: Horsetail is an excellent astringent for the genito-urinary system, reducing hemorrhage and healing wounds thanks to the high silica content. This makes it ideal for urinary tract infections, especially when resulting in haematuria ( however, always rule out kidney infections that require immediate medical attention). Whilst it acts as a mild diuretic, its toning and astringent actions make it invaluable in the treatment of incontinence and bed wetting in children. It is considered a specific in cases of inflammation or benign enlargement of the prostate gland. Externally it is a vulnerary. In some cases it has been found to ease the pain of rheumatism and stimulate the healing of chilblains.
Combination’s: Horsetail is often combined with Hydrangea in the treatment of prostate troubles. Can be used in conjunction with other urinary herbs for Urinary tract infections. Use with Saw Palmetto for enlarged prostate.

Preparations: Infusion: pour a cup of boiling water onto 2 teaspoonfuls of the dried plant and let infuse for l5-20 minutes. This should be drunk three times a day. Bath: a useful bath can be made to help in rheumatic pain and chilblains. Allow l00 grams (3 l/2 ounces of the herb to steep in hot water for an hour. Add this to the bath. (For child dosages and recipes for tinctures, please email us.)