What Is Equisetum Hyemale?
Equisetum hyemale, also known as rough horsetail or scouring rush, is an evergreen perennial herbaceous plant in the horsetail family Equisetaceae. It is native to Eurasia and Greenland and is usually found in moist areas, particularly wetlands.
The plant has hollow, jointed stems that resemble medium to dark green stalks and can grow up to 3 feet in height. The rough stems of equisetum hyemale are used for cleaning pots and as sandpaper. In Japan, the boiled and dried plant is used as a traditional polishing material, similar to fine grit sandpaper.
Equisetum Hyemale Chemical Constituents
Equisetum hyemale, also known as horsetail, is made of various chemical constituents like phenolic compounds such as cinnamic acid, chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, rutin, caffeoyl tartaric acid, kaempferol, quercetin, luteolin, and flavones. It also contains sterols like campesterol, cycloartenol, and γ-sitosterol.
There are some other chemical compounds also present in equisetum hyemale like alkaloids, flavonoids, phenol, saponins, silicic acid, tannin, triterpenoids, and volatile oils. All these chemical constituents prevent the bone loss that occurs in the body due to aging or the deficiency of estrogen.
Equisetum Hyemale Preparation
Equisetum hyemale is a plant that is used in various medical conditions. Each preparation method provides different benefits and uses, so the choice of preparation depends on the intended application and desired effect.
- Infusion: To make an infusion, steep dried horsetail is taken in hot water for about 10-15 minutes. This method of preparation is used to make herbal teas or to extract the plant’s beneficial compounds.
- Decoction: Simmer the dried plant material of equisetum hyemale in water for about 20-30 minutes. This method is more intense and can extract more profound constituents from the plant to produce decoction.
- Tincture: By soaking the plant material in alcohol or a mixture of alcohol and water for a few weeks, equisetum hyemale tincture is produced. The plant’s active compounds and the resulting liquid can be used in small doses to process the extract.
- Powder: After drying the horsetail, it is ground into a fine powder. This can be further stored in capsules and used in various procedures.
- Extract: By using solvents like alcohol or glycerin, a concentrated extract of equisetum hyemale is made. It is used in creating supplements and topical preparations.
- Poultice: It is created by crushing or grinding fresh or dried horsetail and applying it directly to the skin. This method is used in topical benefits to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
- Oil Infusion: It is infused in certain carrier oils such as olive or coconut oil and is left for over a few weeks which results in herbal oil. This herbal oil is further used in topical applications for massages.
Equisetum Hyemale Mother Tincture
Equisetum hyemale mother tincture is a homeopathic medicine that is used in treating multiple health conditions. It is majorly used in curing intestinal problems dealing with suffering in the abdomen and the bladder which results in high urgency and frequency to pass urine for the individual.
The significant symptoms observed are soreness of the testicles that is relieved from the burning sensation in the urethra during urination. It is used in curing fever with nasal blockage and any medical condition associated with the respiratory system. The primary ingredient in equisetum hyemale mother tincture is equisetum hyemale.
The significant benefits of equisetum hyemale mother tincture are:
- Improves irritable moods with fatigue and exhaustion effectively.
- Treats the extreme headache along with pain in the upper part of the eyes.
- Helps with unusual ear sounds and slight ear pain.
- It cures the medical condition linked to feeling very hungry and soothes a sore throat.
- Treated severe stomach pain and frequent urination.
- They are used in medical conditions with diarrhea and watery stools.
- Relaxes kidney pain and bladder pain, especially with frequent urination.
- It acts as a comfort for burning pain in the urethra during urination.
- It is also used in treating respiratory issues.
Benefits Of Equisetum Hyemale
The use of supplements should be personalized and authorized to healthcare professionals like a registered dietitian, pharmacist, or doctor. No such supplement is meant to treat or cure the disease. It just supports the body to overcome it.
Equisetum hyemale is used to cure many medical conditions such as osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis, high blood pressure, high blood sugar, and hair growth. Let us further learn in detail about the benefits of equisetum hyemale:
- Improves Bone Health: Due to osteoporosis, the bones become thin and weak, which increases the risk of fractures. This majorly occurs in postmenopausal women due to lower estrogen levels, with about 25% of them experiencing rapid bone loss.
- Reduces Inflammation: Research has shown that the use of equisetum hyemale reduces inflammation markers and increases anti-inflammatory markers. Even a test-tube study also represented that horsetail can reduce inflammation in specific white blood cells too.
- Lowers Blood Pressure: Recent studies have shown that equisetum hyemale significantly lowered both top and bottom blood pressure measures, similar to the effects of a common blood pressure medication taken by people.
- Lowers Blood Sugar: After consumption of equisetum, hyemale also helps lower blood sugar and improve insulin resistance in humans.
- Promotes Hair Growth: Equisetum hyemale contains silicon, which reduces hair loss and improves shine. Silicon also helps with collagen production, which strengthens and improves skin elasticity.
- Osteoarthritis: Equisetum hyemale consists of compounds that reduce inflammation and treat osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
- Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): It is found that equisetum hyemale consists of specific anti-bacterial properties that cure urinary tract infections.
What Does Equisetum Hyemale Treat?
Equisetum hyemale has a long history as an herbal medicine for treating various medical conditions. Many scientific researches depict that the use of equisetum hyemale is limited and is used under strict supervision.
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs): Equisetum hyemale has diuretic properties, which means it can increase urine production and flow in the human body. It also has antimicrobial and antiseptic properties, which help in the possible treatment and prevention of bacterial UTIs. The diuretic effect of equisetum hyemale flushes out the toxins along with bacteria from the urinary tract. While the antimicrobial properties directly target the infectious agents present in the body.
- Kidney stones: The diuretic and mild astringent properties of equisetum hyemale are engaged in the prevention and treatment of kidney stones. Through increasing the flow of urine the small stones present can be easily flushed out of the body. Whereas, astringent compounds may help reduce the risk of stone.
- Wound healing: Equisetum hyemale also has topical applications to heal cuts, burns, and other skin injuries. This wound-healing property present is due to the presence of silica, flavonoids, and other compounds that may support tissue repair and regeneration.
- Osteoarthritis and joint pain: It is considered a natural remedy to treat osteoarthritis and joint pain due to its potential anti-inflammatory effects.
- Hair and nail health: It is also used as a natural treatment for strengthening hair and nails. This nature is due to the plant being a source of silica, a mineral that plays a crucial role in the structure and integrity of these tissues. Silica helps in improving the strength, growth, and overall health of hair and nails.
Equisetum Hyemale Homeopathic Uses
Equisetum hyemale is used to cure various medical conditions in homeopathic medicine. Here are some of them explained below:
- Urinary tract disorders: Equisetum hyemale is the most common homeopathic medicine to treat urinary tract disorders, including cystitis (bladder inflammation) and urethritis (urethra inflammation). It helps in increasing urine flow and flushing out bacteria or irritants from the urinary tract.
- Kidney and bladder stones: Homeopathic equisetum hyemale is used in preventing kidney and bladder stones. The diuretic and mild astringent properties of the medicine reduce the risk of stone formation and ease the expulsion of existing stones.
- Prostate disorders: Equisetum hyemale in homeopathic medicine is used to address various prostate-related issues, such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and prostatitis. The soothing and anti-inflammatory effect on the prostate helps in reducing symptoms like difficulty urinating, frequent urination, and pelvic discomfort.
- Skin and nail conditions: The high silica content in equisetum hyemale is used to contribute to the possible benefits for skin and nail health. It helps in particular skin and nail conditions, such as brittle or weak nails, eczema, and dermatitis.
- Musculoskeletal conditions: Equisetum hyemale is used to address joint and muscle-related issues, such as osteoarthritis, joint pain, and muscle weakness.
Equisetum Hyemale Dosage
The appropriate dosage of equisetum hyemale depends on the form of the medical condition being treated. There is no such standardized dosage. Hence, it is important to follow guidelines provided by a healthcare professional and consult with the associated doctor.
Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid using horsetail unless advised by a healthcare professional and is necessary.
People suffering from diseases like kidney disorders or those taking medications like diuretics should consult a healthcare provider before using them.
- Herbal Tea/Infusion: 2-3 grams of equisetum hyemale in a cup of boiling water, taken 3 times a day.
- Tincture: 2-4 milliliters (ml) of equisetum hyemale taken 3 times daily.
- Decoction: 10-20 grams of dried horsetail boiled in 1 liter of water for about 30 minutes.
Equisetum Hyemale Dosage For Adults
The dosage for equisetum hyemale for adults depends on the medical condition being treated and the severity of the condition.
- On an average, 2-4 milliliters (ml) of horsetail tincture can be taken 2-3 times daily.
- Also, 300-500 milligrams (mg) per capsule or tablet, taken 2-3 times daily.
People suffering from kidney disorders, those taking diuretics, or those with other medical conditions should consult a specialist doctor before using equisetum hyemale.
Equisetum Hyemale Dosage For Children
Equisetum hyemale is generally not recommended for children due to the lack of research on its safety and effectiveness in this age group. If the doctor suggests equisetum hyemale to the child, they recommend a lower dosage than for adults and closely monitor the child for any adverse effects.
Always consult a pediatrician or a specialist in herbal medicine who can provide guidance based on the child’s age, weight, and health condition.
Who Should Avoid Equisetum Hyemale?
Individuals Who Should Avoid Equisetum Hyemale:
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women: Equisetum Hyemale consists of uterine-stimulating effects, due to which the risk of miscarriage or premature labor is increased.
- Children: There is no scientific evidence and research done on the usage of equisetum Hyemale on children. And due to safety purposes it is not much suggested to intake it in case of children without any recommendation from a healthcare professional.
- Individuals with kidney or bladder disorders: Equisetum hyemale has a diuretic effect, which leads to worsening certain kidney or bladder medical conditions, such as kidney stones or urinary tract infections.
- Individuals taking certain medications: Equisetum hyemale interacts with diuretics, blood thinners, and other medications, potentially changing their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.
Side Effects And Risks Of Using Equisetum Hyemale:
- Gastrointestinal issues: In certain rare cases, equisetum hyemale may cause gastrointestinal side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort, especially when taken in large doses with proper supplements.
- Thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency: Equisetum hyemale consists of a chemical compound called thiaminase, which can interfere with the absorption and utilization of thiamine (vitamin B1). Prolonged or excessive use of equisetum hyemale may also result in a risk of thiamine deficiency, which can cause neurological symptoms.
- Kidney and bladder irritation: The diuretic and possibly irritant properties of equisetum hyemale may cause irritation or inflammation in the kidneys and bladder, especially with prolonged or excessive use.
- Allergic reactions: In rare cases, some individuals may experience allergic reactions, such as skin rashes, itching, or difficulty breathing, when using equisetum hyemale.
References
- https://hoffmannursery.com/plants/details/equisetum-hyemale
- https://www.1mg.com/otc/sbl-equisetum-hyemale-mother-tincture-q-otc348910?srsltid=AfmBOop6MHXFsAgiZOSzbJ44D4xinaIip6yCpSpYXx2drdSt34qeHFi0&wpsrc=Google+Organic+Search
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/horsetail#benefits
- https://www.verywellhealth.com/horsetail-4692253
FAQs
Is homeopathic equisetum hyemale safe?
Homeopathic Equisetum hyemale is majorly considered to be safe when used in adequate amounts and with proper dilution. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should always consult with a healthcare practitioner before using it.
How to give equisetum hyemale to babies?
Equisetum hyemale is not generally recommended to babies, either in its herbal form or as a homeopathic remedy, unless expressly advised by a healthcare professional. If it is prescribed by the doctor then only a very high diluted form is given that too in low doses.
How does equisetum hyemale work?
Equisetum hyemale is high in silica content, supporting the formation of collagen, which is a critical component of bone, cartilage, and connective tissue. It also helps strengthen hair strands and improve skin elasticity.
How long does equisetum hyemale take to work?
The time taken for equisetum hyemale to work depends on multiple factors, such as the type of medical condition, its severity, and the dosage taken. The general health of the individual, including metabolism, age, and the presence of other medical conditions, can affect how quickly an equisetum hyemale works.
Can equisetum hyemale be taken daily?
Equisetum hyemale can be consumed daily but under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Long-term daily use is not recommended without medical supervision due to potential risks, including the depletion of certain nutrients like thiamine (vitamin B1) and potassium.
What is equisetum hyemale used to treat?
Equisetum hyemale works with the help of its high silica content, which supports bone health, hair, skin, and nails, as well as its diuretic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.
What is equisetum hyemale used for in homeopathy?
Equisetum hyemale species is considered a medicinal plant used in homeopathy in the form of infusions to combat infectious or inflammatory diseases and also diuretic effects, presenting several compounds related to these conditions.
What are the benefits of equisetum hyemale tonic?
Equisetum hyemale is also used as a tonic for various health benefits. Horsetail is one of the richest plant sources of silica, a mineral essential for bone strength and density. The silica in equisetum hyemale also plays a crucial role in collagen synthesis, which is vital for maintaining the health and elasticity of the skin, as well as the strength of hair and nails.
What is the use of equisetum hyemale homeopathic medicine?
The use of equisetum hyemale in homeopathic medicine is done for various medical conditions like cystitis (Bladder Inflammation), frequent urination, bedwetting (enuresis), and enlarged prostate.
How do you use equisetum hyemale mother tincture?
The use of the mother tincture of equisetum hyemale should be done carefully and under the guidance of a qualified homeopathic practitioner. The general dosage of a mother tincture is usually 10-15 drops mixed in a small amount of water, taken 2-3 times daily.
