Many herbal teas have beneficial health effects and horsetail tea is no exception. Horsetail is a plant used medicinally. Commonly, it is used as a tea, but it is also available in capsules and liquid extract. Though horsetail tea is made from a natural plant, all herbs have the capacity to cause side effects. Because of this, it is important to consult your doctor before drinking horsetail tea.
Origin
Horsetail is a perennial and a close relative to the fern. It is a non-flowering weed found throughout North America, Europe, Asia and the Middle East. It has hollow shoots and stems that look similar to asparagus. The above-ground parts are used medicinally. When the plant dries, silica crystals form in the stems and branches, giving it a distinct look of having feathery tails. Horsetail has been used as an herbal remedy dating back to at least the times of ancient Greek and Roman medicine, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Uses
The horsetail plant has high silicon levels, according to the University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, with the silicon being an abundant and beneficial mineral. It plays an important role in bone health. Horsetail also has been used for digestive disorders, to stop nosebleeds and urinary disorders. Because it can help your blood clot, it is also used to purportedly help reduce heavy menstrual bleeding.
Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis occurs when you have reduced bone mass, resulting in thin bones. It is common in older adults. Because silica is important to bone strength, horsetail has been suggested for osteoporosis, according to UMMC. However, studies evaluating the safety and effectiveness of horsetail are lacking.
Safety
Horsetail tea side effects are rare. Drink horsetail tea as directed but only after consulting your doctor. Horsetail tea is commonly made by steeping 2 to 3 tsp. of horsetail in water for fie to 10 minutes. It is important to drink enough fluids to prevent dehydration when you drink horsetail tea, advises UMMC, due to horsetail's diuretic properties. Purchase horsetail from a trusted source to avoid possible contamination. You should not drink horsetail tea if you are pregnant or nursing, or have liver or kidney problems.
Interactions
All herbs have the capacity to interact with your medications. Horsetail contains some nicotine, so do not drink horsetail tea if you are using nicotine patches or gum to help stop smoking. Horsetail tea may lower your potassium levels. You should not drink horsetail tea if you have a heart arrhythmia. It is important to consult your doctor if you are currently prescribed medication.
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