Horsetail (Equisetum arvense)

Common Names: Horsetail, Scouring Rush, Snake Grass
Scientific Name: Equisetum arvense
Family: Equisetaceae
Plant Type: Perennial herb
Habitat: Native to Europe, Asia, and North America, including the UK and Isle of Man. Horsetail grows in moist, sandy or peaty soils, typically found near riverbanks, marshes, or woodland edges.
Flowering Season: Spring and summer (flowers are inconspicuous and are borne on separate male and female plants).

Height: 30–60 cm
Leaves: Thin, jointed stems resembling the "tails" of horses, with small scale-like leaves at each joint.
Stems: Hollow, segmented stems with distinct joints and rough texture due to silica content.
Flowers: Small, cone-like reproductive structures that appear in spring before the green stems develop.

Silica: High levels of silica (about 70%) contribute to its beneficial properties for connective tissue and bones.
Flavonoids: Quercetin, kaempferol, and other flavonoids are present with antioxidant properties.
Alkaloids: Equisetine, palustrine
Tannins: Withstringing properties useful in reducing inflammation and promoting healing.
Saponins: Known to support tissue regeneration and strengthen capillaries.
Essential Oils: Trace amounts of volatile oils with diuretic properties.
Minerals: Potassium, calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus.

Stems: The aerial stems are the main part of the plant used medicinally. They are rich in silica, which is beneficial for connective tissue, bones, and skin.
Roots: The roots are sometimes used, though they are not as commonly utilized as the stems.
Leaves: In some cases, the leaves are used, although they are less potent than the stems.
Whole Plant: In some applications, the entire plant, including the stems, leaves, and roots, may be harvested and dried for medicinal use.

Joint Health & Connective Tissue: The high silica content in horsetail makes it particularly useful for supporting bone, cartilage, and joint health. It can be beneficial for arthritis or ligament injuries.
Strengthening Hooves: Silica supports hoof growth and strength, making horsetail a popular supplement for horses with brittle or weak hooves.
Kidney Health: Horsetail has mild diuretic effects and can help with kidney health and promote the healthy elimination of excess fluids from the body.
Healing of Wounds & Injuries: Due to its high silica content, horsetail can promote tissue repair and wound healing.

Horsetail Extract/Tincture: Administer to support joint and bone health.
Horsetail Tea: Offer to horses for joint support and overall health.
Topical Use: Apply horsetail-infused oil to help strengthen and promote hoof growth.
Powdered Herb: Add horsetail powder to the horse’s daily feed to support bone and joint integrity.

Use with caution in horses with kidney issues, as the diuretic effect can exacerbate dehydration or imbalance in fluid levels.
Consult with a veterinarian before administering horsetail if the horse is pregnant or lactating.

Joint and Bone Health: The high silica content in horsetail supports bone strength, joint health, and cartilage regeneration, making it helpful for dogs suffering from arthritis or mobility issues.
Skin and Coat Health: Silica can improve skin elasticity and promote a glossy coat. It is often used for dogs suffering from dry skin or skin conditions.
Urinary Tract Health: Horsetail's mild diuretic properties make it beneficial for urinary tract health, as it helps eliminate toxins from the body.
Wound Healing: As a mild astringent, horsetail is sometimes used to assist in the healing of cuts, bruises, and abrasions.

Horsetail Powder: Add to your dog’s food to support joint health and skin integrity.
Horsetail Tea: Brew horsetail tea and give your dog small doses to support urinary health and hydration.
Horsetail Tincture: Administer horsetail tincture for mild kidney or urinary support (consult a vet for dosage specifics).

Kidney and Heart Issues: Due to the diuretic effect, use cautiously in dogs with heart disease or kidney problems. Always consult a vet before introducing horsetail.
Pregnancy and Lactation: Avoid using horsetail during pregnancy unless prescribed by a veterinarian.

Healing Herb: Horsetail was historically used in the UK as a scouring herb, used to clean pots and tools due to its abrasive texture, and was also believed to possess healing properties for broken bones and wounds.
Traditional Remedies: In folklore, it was used to heal fractures, sprains, and to strengthen joints. It was often added to poultices or teas for its believed medicinal properties.
Symbol of Resilience: The plant was associated with resilience due to its tough, perennial nature and ability to grow in harsh conditions. It was seen as a symbol of endurance and strength.
Magical Properties: Some tales in the Isle of Man suggest horsetail was used in rituals for protection against evil spirits or negative energy. In certain areas, it was believed that horsetail could protect homes from misfortune.

Feature	Details
Main Uses	Joint health, bone strength, tissue repair, skin health, urinary tract health
Parts Used	Stems (primary), roots, leaves (less common), whole plant
Equine Use	Joint support, hoof strengthening, kidney health, wound healing
Canine Use	Joint and bone health, skin and coat improvement, urinary tract support
Folklore	Used for scouring, healing fractures, symbol of resilience, protection