Horsetail

Enhance your wellness routine with Willow Wellness Horsetail Tincture, a natural supplement made from ethanolic extracts of Equisetum Arvense. Known for its high silica content, Horsetail supports healthy hair, skin, nails, and overall vitality.

Properties:

• Supports healthy hair, skin, and nails
• Promotes overall vitality
• High in silica and other beneficial compounds

Nutritional's:

• Ingredients:
  • Ethanolic Extracts of Equisetum Arvense (Horsetail)

Dosage:

• Suggested Dosage: Take 1 to 2 ml (20 to 40 drops) 2 to 3 times a day in a small amount of water or as prescribed by your healthcare consultant

Uses:

• Hair, Skin, and Nails: Supports the health and strength of hair, skin, and nails due to its high silica content.
• Bone Health: Promotes bone strength and health.
• Overall Vitality: Enhances overall vitality and wellness.

Allergens:

• None listed

Disclaimer:

This product is not intended for the diagnosis or treatment of medical conditions and is not intended to replace any medication prescribed by your primary healthcare specialist. Consult with a healthcare professional before use, especially if you have existing health concerns or are taking medications.

Storage:

• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight

Care:

• Shake well before use

Benefits of taking Horsetail

1. Rich in Silica

Horsetail is one of the best natural sources of silica, a mineral that is essential for the health of bones, skin, hair, and nails. Silica supports collagen production, which helps maintain the elasticity and strength of skin and connective tissues.

2. Supports Bone Health

Due to its high silica content, horsetail is beneficial for bone health. Silica is crucial for the formation of collagen, which is an important component of bone structure. Regular consumption of horsetail may help improve bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.

3. Promotes Hair Growth

Horsetail is often used in hair care products and supplements because of its ability to promote hair growth. The silica in horsetail strengthens hair strands, reduces hair thinning, and improves overall hair texture and appearance.

4. Enhances Skin Health

Horsetail's silica content also benefits the skin by promoting collagen production, which can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and improve skin elasticity. Horsetail's antioxidant properties also help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals.

5. Diuretic Properties

Horsetail acts as a natural diuretic, helping to increase urine output and flush out excess fluids and toxins from the body. This can be beneficial for reducing water retention, bloating, and supporting kidney function.

6. Supports Wound Healing

Horsetail has been traditionally used to support wound healing. Its astringent and antimicrobial properties can help stop bleeding, reduce inflammation, and promote the healing of minor wounds and burns.

7. Strengthens Nails

Silica in horsetail can strengthen brittle nails, making them less prone to breaking and splitting. Regular use of horsetail supplements or topical applications can lead to healthier, stronger nails.

8. Antioxidant Benefits

Horsetail contains antioxidants, including flavonoids and phenolic acids, which help protect the body from oxidative stress and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. These antioxidants support overall health and well-being.

9. Supports Joint Health

The silica and other minerals in horsetail can support joint health by improving the strength and flexibility of connective tissues. This can be beneficial for individuals with joint pain or conditions like arthritis.

10. Anti-Inflammatory Effects

Horsetail has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the body. This makes it a useful supplement for managing conditions associated with inflammation, such as arthritis and other inflammatory disorders.

11. Urinary Tract Health

Horsetail's diuretic and antimicrobial properties can support urinary tract health by helping to flush out bacteria and reduce the risk of infections such as urinary tract infections (UTIs).

Scientific facts around Horsetail

Scientific Facts

1. Botanical Classification:

   • Horsetail (Equisetum arvense) belongs to the Equisetaceae family, which is one of the oldest plant families on Earth. Horsetail is a non-flowering plant that reproduces through spores rather than seeds, similar to ferns.

2. Rich in Silica:

   • Horsetail is renowned for its high silica content, which can range between 5-10% of the plant’s dry weight. Silica is a crucial mineral for the formation of collagen, which supports the health of bones, skin, hair, and nails.

3. Contains Flavonoids and Phenolic Acids:

   • Horsetail is rich in flavonoids, phenolic acids, and other antioxidant compounds that help protect the body from oxidative stress. These antioxidants contribute to horsetail's anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and wound-healing properties.

4. Diuretic Properties:

   • Horsetail has natural diuretic effects, increasing urine output and helping to flush out excess fluids and toxins from the body. This diuretic action is attributed to the presence of flavonoids and saponins, which promote kidney function and reduce fluid retention.

5. Traditional Medicine Uses:

   • Horsetail has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for various purposes, including treating wounds, promoting hair growth, supporting bone health, and acting as a diuretic. It is commonly consumed as a tea, tincture, or in supplement form.

6. Antimicrobial and Antifungal Properties:

   • Studies have shown that horsetail exhibits antimicrobial and antifungal activities. The plant’s extracts have been found effective against various bacteria and fungi, making it useful for treating infections and promoting wound healing.

7. Low-Calcium Content:

   • Despite its high silica content, horsetail is low in calcium. This makes it a unique supplement that can support bone health without contributing to calcium overload, which can be a concern with certain other supplements.

Originations

1. Ancient Plant Lineage:

   • Horsetail is considered a "living fossil," as it is one of the oldest plants on Earth, dating back to the Paleozoic era, over 300 million years ago. During this time, ancestors of horsetail plants were among the dominant plant species on the planet.

2. Geographical Origin:

   • Horsetail is native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, including Europe, Asia, and North America. It typically grows in moist environments, such as riverbanks, wetlands, and fields.

3. Historical Use in Traditional Medicine:

   • Horsetail has been used in traditional European and Native American medicine for thousands of years. The ancient Greeks and Romans used horsetail for treating wounds, kidney stones, and respiratory issues. It was also used as a diuretic and to strengthen hair and nails.

4. Cultural Significance:

   • In various cultures, horsetail has been revered for its healing properties. In traditional Chinese medicine, horsetail (known as Mu Zei) has been used to treat eye infections, bleeding, and swelling. In Native American traditions, horsetail was used as a poultice for wounds and as a remedy for urinary tract issues.

5. Agricultural and Practical Uses:

   • Beyond its medicinal uses, horsetail has been used historically for practical purposes due to its abrasive texture. The high silica content made it useful as a natural scouring pad for cleaning pots and polishing wood. In agriculture, horsetail has been used as a natural pesticide and fertilizer due to its rich mineral content.

6. Modern Cultivation and Use:

   • Today, horsetail is cultivated worldwide for its medicinal properties and is commonly found in herbal supplements, teas, and skincare products. It continues to be valued for its health benefits, particularly in supporting hair, skin, and bone health.

Horsetail is a great product for athletes

1. Supports Bone Health

Horsetail is rich in silica, a mineral that is essential for collagen formation and bone strength. For athletes, strong bones are crucial to withstand the physical stress of training and competition. Horsetail can help maintain bone density and reduce the risk of fractures or other bone-related injuries.

2. Promotes Joint Health

The silica and other minerals in horsetail support the health of connective tissues, including cartilage, tendons, and ligaments. This is particularly important for athletes, as healthy joints are necessary for mobility and preventing injuries. Regular use of horsetail may help reduce joint pain and improve flexibility.

3. Enhances Recovery

Horsetail’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties can aid in recovery after intense physical activity. By reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, horsetail may help decrease muscle soreness and promote faster recovery, allowing athletes to train more effectively.

4. Supports Hair, Skin, and Nail Health

Athletes often face physical and environmental stressors that can affect their appearance, such as hair thinning, skin damage, and brittle nails. Horsetail’s high silica content promotes the growth and strength of hair, skin, and nails, helping athletes maintain a healthy appearance even under the stress of rigorous training.

5. Diuretic Properties

Horsetail acts as a natural diuretic, helping to flush out excess fluids and toxins from the body. For athletes, this can be beneficial in managing water retention and reducing bloating, especially before competitions. However, it’s important to use diuretics carefully to avoid dehydration.

6. Promotes Wound Healing

Athletes are prone to cuts, scrapes, and other minor injuries. Horsetail has traditionally been used to promote wound healing due to its astringent and antimicrobial properties. Applying horsetail topically or consuming it as a supplement can support the body’s natural healing processes.

7. Antioxidant Benefits

The antioxidants in horsetail, such as flavonoids and phenolic acids, help protect the body from oxidative damage caused by intense exercise. This protection is crucial for athletes who experience higher levels of oxidative stress, helping to preserve muscle health and reduce the risk of injury.

8. Supports Detoxification

Horsetail’s diuretic properties also support the body’s natural detoxification processes by promoting the elimination of waste and toxins through increased urine output. For athletes, detoxification can be important for maintaining overall health and optimizing performance.

9. Strengthens Connective Tissues

In addition to supporting bone and joint health, the silica in horsetail strengthens connective tissues throughout the body. This is beneficial for athletes who rely on strong, resilient muscles and ligaments to perform at their best and prevent injuries.

10. Natural and Safe Supplement

Horsetail is a natural herb that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine. It is generally well-tolerated and can be incorporated into an athlete’s diet as a tea, tincture, or supplement, offering a safe and effective way to support overall health and performance.

Some dishes that include Horsetail

1. Horsetail Tea

• Ingredients: Fresh or dried horsetail, hot water, honey, and lemon.
• Description: Horsetail tea is a simple and traditional way to consume horsetail. Brew the horsetail in hot water for about 10 minutes, then strain and add honey and lemon to taste. This tea is a soothing beverage that offers the health benefits of horsetail in a warm, refreshing drink.

2. Horsetail and Vegetable Soup

• Ingredients: Fresh horsetail, carrots, celery, onions, garlic, vegetable broth, potatoes, and fresh herbs (such as thyme and parsley).
• Description: Add fresh horsetail to a hearty vegetable soup. The horsetail adds a mild, earthy flavor and boosts the nutritional content of the soup, making it a nourishing dish that supports overall health and wellness.

3. Horsetail-Infused Rice

• Ingredients: White or brown rice, fresh horsetail, vegetable broth, and salt.
• Description: Cook rice with a few sprigs of fresh horsetail added to the pot. The horsetail infuses the rice with its nutrients and a subtle, earthy flavor. Remove the horsetail before serving, and enjoy this healthy side dish with your favorite main course.

4. Horsetail and Spinach Salad

• Ingredients: Fresh horsetail shoots, spinach, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, avocado, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
• Description: Add tender young horsetail shoots to a fresh spinach salad. The horsetail provides a unique texture and earthy flavor that complements the fresh vegetables. Dress with olive oil and lemon juice for a light, nutritious salad.

5. Horsetail Omelette

• Ingredients: Eggs, fresh horsetail shoots, onions, bell peppers, cheese (optional), salt, and pepper.
• Description: Incorporate fresh horsetail shoots into an omelette for a nutrient-rich breakfast. Sauté the horsetail with onions and bell peppers before adding the eggs. Cook until set, and sprinkle with cheese if desired.

6. Horsetail Pesto

• Ingredients: Fresh horsetail shoots, basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for a vegan option), olive oil, salt, and pepper.
• Description: Blend fresh horsetail shoots with basil, garlic, pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese to create a unique pesto. Use this horsetail pesto as a sauce for pasta, a spread for sandwiches, or a dip for vegetables.

7. Horsetail Stir-Fry

• Ingredients: Fresh horsetail shoots, bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, tofu or chicken, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger.
• Description: Add fresh horsetail shoots to a vegetable stir-fry. The horsetail adds a slight crunch and earthy flavor that pairs well with the other vegetables and protein. Serve over rice or noodles for a complete meal.

8. Horsetail-Infused Oil

• Ingredients: Fresh horsetail, olive oil, and a sprig of rosemary (optional).
• Description: Infuse olive oil with fresh horsetail by gently heating the oil and horsetail together, then letting it cool and strain. Use this horsetail-infused oil as a base for salad dressings, or drizzle it over roasted vegetables for added flavor and nutrients.

9. Horsetail and Mushroom Risotto

• Ingredients: Arborio rice, fresh horsetail, mushrooms, onions, garlic, vegetable broth, white wine, Parmesan cheese, and butter.
• Description: Add fresh horsetail to a creamy mushroom risotto. The horsetail enhances the dish with its nutrients and adds a subtle earthy flavor that complements the richness of the risotto.

10. Horsetail Smoothie

• Ingredients: Fresh or powdered horsetail, spinach, banana, almond milk, chia seeds, and honey.
• Description: Blend fresh or powdered horsetail into a green smoothie. The horsetail boosts the smoothie with its silica content, promoting hair, skin, and nail health, while adding a mild flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients.

Orders are dispatched daily (except Saturday & Sundays – these orders will be packed and sent on Monday).  Your order should be received within 2-5 business days.