Active Ingredient Horsetail (equisetum Arvense L.)

the only living genus of the order equisetales, class equisetopsida (sphenopsida), division equisetophyta (sphenophyta); distantly related to ferns. it grows in moist places. the hollow, jointed, ridged stems contain silicates.

Source:

medlineplus herbs and supplements: horsetail (equisetum arvense l.)

Medical Condition	Uses based on scientific evidence	Grade*
osteoporosis	silicon may be beneficial for bone strengthening. because horsetail contains silicon, it has been suggested as a possible natural treatment for osteoporosis. preliminary human study reports benefits, but more detailed research is needed before a firm recommendation can be made. people with osteoporosis should speak with a qualified healthcare provider about possible treatment with more proven therapies.	c
polyuria	use of horsetail dates to ancient roman and greek medicine. the name equisetum is derived from equus, "horse," and seta, "bristle." preliminary human and laboratory research suggests that horsetail may increase the amount of urine produced by the body. more studies are needed to determine if horsetail is safe or useful for specific health conditions.	b

*Key to grades
A: Strong scientific evidence for this use;
B: Good scientific evidence for this use;
C: Unclear scientific evidence for this use;
D: Fair scientific evidence against this use;
F: Strong scientific evidence against this use.