What it does: Horsetail provides bioavailable silica, which is essential for healthy collagen formation and maintenance of strong hair, skin, nails, bones, and other connective tissues. It is also recognized for mild diuretic and antioxidant effects.
How it is used: Commonly utilized in supplements for hair, skin, and nail support, connective tissue health, joint flexibility, and to help support urinary tract function or natural fluid balance.
Natural sources and supplement forms: Horsetail naturally occurs in the green stems of Equisetum arvense and is used in supplements as dried herb, liquid extract, or standardized powder, typically in capsules or tablets with specified silica content.
Why it appears in supplement formulas: It is chosen for its rich natural silica, valued for supporting structural tissue health and beauty benefits, and for its traditional use in promoting urinary wellness.
What to know before use: Prolonged use at high doses may lower vitamin B1 (thiamine) levels due to thiaminase content, so individuals with B1 deficiency or kidney issues should consult a healthcare professional before use.
Interesting Fact
Horsetail: An Ancient Plant Packed with Silica
Horsetail extract, derived from the Equisetum arvense plant, is naturally rich in the mineral silica—a compound important for supporting the structure of hair, skin, and nails. This plant has been around since the age of the dinosaurs, making it one of the oldest living plant species still used today in supplements for its unique natural composition.
