Horsetail

 Horsetail stems are rich in silica, which help our bodies to form collagen, an important protein found in connective tissue, skin, bone, cartilage and ligaments. Because of this horsetail is helpful in mending broken bones, treating and preventing osteoporosis, and as a general tonic to keep the framework of the body healthy.

Herbalists also recognize the diuretic properties of horsetail. When prepared in a tea, ingested as a juice, or taken in a capsule, it promotes urination, and is a remedy for bladder and urinary tract infections and helps heal stomach ulcers and remove kidney stones. Horsetail also strengthens the bladder wall.

A warm horsetail poultice can be applied to a fresh cut to help stop bleeding. A poultice or tea benefits fractured bones, sprains, or rheumatic conditions as the silica helps increase bone density, and this makes it a supportive therapy for osteopororosis.

A cool wash can be made to help heal burns, bug bites and skin eruptions.

The juice of the plant, especially the sterile stems, is good for anaemia, which have resulted from internal blending from such illnesses as stomach ulcers. It acts by promoting coagulation of the blood. Horsetail tea is als good for excessive menstrual flow.

The spring budding shoots of the antiooxidant rich horsetail can be used as a steam vegetable or tea. They are high in many minerals including calcium, magnesium, and sulphur.