Horsetail is an herb with a long history, dating back to Greek and Roman times. According to Medline Plus, medicinally it has been used to help with osteoporosis, kidney stones, topical wounds and urinary tract inflammation. It is a strong and hearty plant with a high amount of silicon, a mineral need for healthy bones, and has been an ingredient in many shampoos and cosmetics. You can take horsetail in tea, tincture or capsule form. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not regulate the effectiveness of herbal remedies.
In an Infusion
Step 1
Stuff your tea ball with the loose herb. Place it in a mug.
Step 2
Fill the tea kettle and place on the stove top. Bring to a boil.
Step 3
Pour the hot water in the mug and allow the tea to steep for five to 10 minutes. You can drink up to three cups daily.
In Shampoo
Step 1
Fill a large pot with about four cups of water. Place approximately 10 g of horsetail herb in the water.
Step 2
Bring the water to a boil and immediately turn off. Cover and let steep for 20 to 30 minutes.
Step 3
Strain the tea from the plant material using a cup-sized mesh strainer and pour into a glass container.
Step 4
Measure around 4 oz. of olive oil and pour into a small glass. Allow the horsetail infusion to cool, then pour it into the oil and mix thoroughly.
Step 5
Massage the oil into your scalp, combing it through to the ends. Wrap your hair in a towel and let it sit for 20 minutes. Shampoo and condition your hair.
Tips and Warnings
- You can also massage the horsetail and olive oil mixture into your hair and put on a shower cap. Take a hot shower and the steam will help your hair absorb the herb. If you do not have time to make a tea, you can purchase a tincture of horsetail and add several drops into your mouth or mix with warm water. Horsetail also comes in capsule form.
- If you experience any side effects from taking horsetail, discontinue use. The University of Maryland Medical Center says that if you plan on taking horsetail regularly, supplement your diet with a multivitamin or B complex, as horsetail may cause B vitamin levels to drop.
Things You'll Need
- Horsetail dried loose herb
- Tea kettle
- Tea ball
- Mug
- Cup-sized mesh strainer
- Olive oil
- Shampoo
- Towel
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