The plant Equisetum arvense, commonly known as horsetail, is traditionally used as a diuretic for treating swelling due to fluid retention (edema). Preliminary research supports this use, according to the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH). Note that while remedies prepared from Equisetum arvense (field horsetail) are generally considered safe, the species Equisetum palustre (marsh horsetail) is poisonous to horses; the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) recommends that nobody use Equisetum palustre as an herbal remedy. Some people take horsetail as a remedy for osteoporosis, kidney stones and urinary tract inflammation. In addition, topical preparations can be used to speed wound healing.
Nictone Effects
Horsetail contains small amounts of nicotine, as noted by the NIH. People should not take horsetail when using other substances containing nicotine such as cigarettes or nicotine replacement products. Symptoms of nicotine overdose may include cold hands and feet, difficulty walking, fever, rapid or abnormal heartbeat and muscle weakness. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should not take horsetail because of the nicotine content.
Allergic Reaction
As with any herb, horsetail can cause allergic reactions in some people, and nicotine may cause an allergic or hypersensitive reaction as well. Signs of an allergy include a rash or hives, itching, facial or mouth swelling and difficulty breathing.
Minor Side Effects
Participants in studies involving horsetail use generally have no problems with the remedy, as noted by InteliHealth. Some people have reported an upset stomach, nausea or more frequent bowel movements. Skin irritation may occur if the individual is allergic to the topical preparation.
Thiamine Depletion
Horsetail may decrease levels of vitamin B1 (thiamine). Some people have experienced nerve damage when taking horsetail, which may be due to a B1 deficiency. Signs of this deficiency may include confusion, difficulty walking, loss of memory and visual disturbances. Individuals who regularly drink large amounts of alcohol may be at greater risk for this problem because chronic alcohol use also depletes B1. The UMMC recommends taking a daily multivitamin or a B-complex supplement when taking horsetail. The possibility of vitamin B1 deficiency is another reason pregnant women should not use this herb.
Potassium Reduction
Horsetail use may also decrease potassium levels. Taking this herb with diuretic medications or herbs, corticosteroids or laxatives may lead to dehydration and cause potassium levels in the blood to drop too low. This can result in muscle weakness and may cause or worsen heart arrhythmia.
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