Horsetail Herb (Equisetum arvense) – 150g

Horsetail herb (Equisetum arvense), also known as field horsetail, has a rich history of medicinal use, dating back to ancient times. This remarkable herb, once used to polish tin (“tin grass”), is now valued for its diverse health benefits. Its therapeutic properties stem from a unique chemical composition including saponins, vitamin C, phytosterols, flavonoids, bitters, carotene, resins, silica compounds, and tannins.

Traditional Uses & Benefits:

• Diuretic: Effectively removes excess fluid from the body, helpful for edema (swelling). Unlike some diuretics, it doesn’t deplete potassium, making it suitable for individuals with heart conditions.
• Hemostatic: Helps stop bleeding from various sources, without stimulating platelet production – beneficial for those with cardiovascular issues.
• Detoxification: Assists in eliminating lead from the body, acting as a powerful detoxifier.
• Adrenal Support: Phytosterols stimulate the adrenal cortex, contributing to overall well-being.
• Hair Growth: Rich in silica, a vital component for healthy hair growth, making it a popular addition to hair care routines.
• Cardiovascular Health: Supports cardiovascular health by potentially helping with hypertension and atherosclerosis.
• Respiratory Health: Traditionally used to alleviate symptoms of bronchitis and pulmonary tuberculosis.
• Urinary Tract Health: Helps flush out kidney and urinary tract stones and improves kidney function.
• Liver Support: Beneficial in supporting liver health and function.
• Skin Health: Used topically to treat wounds, boils, ringworm, eczema, and other skin conditions. Also effective as a mouthwash and nasal rinse for inflamed mucous membranes.
• Rheumatism and Arthritis: Traditional remedies utilize horsetail to help manage pain and inflammation associated with these conditions.
• Gallstones: May help dissolve gallstones.

Preparation and Usage:

Dosage and preparation methods vary depending on the specific health concern. Here are a few examples:

• Varicose Veins: 4 tablespoons of dried herb steeped in 2 cups of boiling water for 2 hours, strained. Consume 1/3 cup three times daily.
• Hypertension & Atherosclerosis: 20 grams of dried herb in 1 cup of boiling water, steeped for 30 minutes, strained. Consume 1/4 cup three times daily after meals.
• Edema (from kidney or heart): 1 tablespoon of dried herb simmered in 200ml of water for 30 minutes, strained, and topped up to original volume with boiled water. Consume 1 tablespoon 3-4 times daily after meals.
• Urinary Tract Infections: 4 tablespoons of dried herb simmered in 1 cup of boiling water, steeped until cool, strained and topped up to original volume. Consume 1/3 cup 2-3 times daily one hour after meals.
• Gout & Rheumatism: 2 teaspoons of dried herb steeped in 1 cup of boiling water for 2 hours (wrapped), strained. Consume 1 tablespoon 5-6 times daily.
• Hemorrhoids: 2 teaspoons of dried herb steeped in 200ml of boiling water for 1 hour, strained. Consume the entire amount throughout the day.
• Tea: 1 teaspoon of dried herb in 250ml of boiling water, steeped for 30 minutes, strained. Consume 2-3 cups daily.

Contraindications:

Consult a healthcare professional before using horsetail, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medications (especially diuretics or blood thinners), or have any underlying health conditions. Individual intolerance is a possible contraindication. A minimum recommended course is 5 packages (assuming 1 package = 150g).