Dietician
Karolina Dobrowolska-Zrałka
Field horsetail (Equisetum Arvense), although often confused with a common weed, is a plant with an extremely rich spectrum of health -promoting activity. His history dates back to the Middle Ages when herbalists appreciated the silvery Kocanek stems as a remedy for liver and urinary tract problems. Today, thanks to scientific research and modern extraction techniques, we can reach for preparations made of constant power and purity, benefit from its composition rich in silicon, flavonoids, phenolic acids and alkaloids.
In daily body care, horsetail gains recognition as a natural way to strengthen hair and nails, as well as a component of cosmetics supporting skin elasticity. Its anti -inflammatory and antioxidant effects make it worth reaching both internally and externally. In our guide, we will look closer to the biochemical composition of the horsetail, discuss the most important properties and indicate practical methods of use - from infusions, to extracts, to comprehensive supplements.
If you care about the natural way to improve your hair condition, smooth the skin or support the urinary tract, this article is for you. We will present proven doses, treatment time and warnings, thanks to which the use of the horsetail will be as safe and effective as possible. We start from scratch - learning the content and mechanisms of this unique herb.
Field horsetail - what does it contain and how does it work?
The chemical composition of the field horsetail is one of the best -tested among herbs. His fame comes primarily from the extremely high content of silicon, necessary for the proper structure of connective tissue, hair and nails. In 100 g of fresh horsetail shoots there is about 8-10% of silica (SIO₂), which in the body plays the role of a building material for the intercellular matrix and the enzyme activator participating in collagen synthesis.
In addition to silicon, flavonoids (e.g. quercetin, apigenin) were detected in violin extracts, which have anti -inflammatory and antioxidant effects, neutralizing free radicals responsible for premature skin aging. Phenolic acids, such as coffee and chlorogenic acid, supporting swelling and soothing inflammation are also present. In addition, the horsetail contains alkaloids (e.g. nicotinine) and mineral salts - potassium, calcium, magnesium - which makes it a plant with a versatile effect remineralizing the body.
The mechanism of violin action is based on the modulation of the collagen mineralization process, hence its use in the prevention of osteoporosis and the therapy of connective tissue damage. Thanks to the presence of astringent compounds (tannins), the plant also has an antiseptic on the urinary mucosa, reducing the risk of infection. Many studies indicate a slightly diuretic properties of horsetail, supporting the removal of excess fluid from tissues.
To sum up, the field horsetail is a source of valuable micro- and macroelements (primarily silicon), antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that comprehensively affect the reconstruction and regeneration of the body's tissues.
Vipe properties for hair, skin and nails
Natural beauty begins from the inside, which is why the field horsetail supplementation is becoming more and more popular support for people struggling with nail fragility or excessive hair loss. Silicon, whose horsetail contains even several times more than many other herbs, participates in the synthesis of keratin - the basic hair and nail protein. Regularly taking the violinist for at least 6-8 weeks improves their flexibility, prevents the split ends and gives hair a healthy shine.
Cosmetics use various forms of horsetail extracts - from tonics to scalp, to butter and creams. The effect of flavonoids and phenolic acids improves the microcirculation of the skin, which accelerates oxygenation of hair bulbs and increases their nutrition. The result is inhibition of excessive hair loss and accelerating the growth phase. In nail care, the field horsetail supports their hardness and reduces brittleness, because silicon becomes part of the keratin matrix.
In the case of skin, horsetail has an soothing effect of irritation and stimulates collagen production in the proper skin. The antioxidants contained in the plant protect cells against oxidative stress, which translates into visible smoothing of the skin surface and reduction of small wrinkles. Preparations with a horsetail are especially recommended for people with capillaries and sensitive skin, where they strengthen the structure of blood vessels and reduce redness.
To sum up, the properties of the field horsetail for hair, skin and nails are based on the wealth of silicon and antioxidants, which together regenerate, strengthen and protect tissues from external factors.
Ponds and urinary tract support - what else can horsetail can?
Although the field horsetail is mainly associated with the improvement of beauty, its use goes far beyond aesthetics. Thanks to the astringent and diuretic effect, the plant supports the proper functioning of the kidneys and urinary tract. Extracts from the horsetail increase the volume of urine excreted, which helps to remove toxins and reduces tissue swelling. At the same time, the antiseptic properties of the horsetail counteract bacteria, which works preventive in inflammation of the bladder.
For people suffering from joint pain and rheumatism, anti -inflammatory and strengthening of the plant on connective tissue are important. Flavonoids and silicon support the production of collagen, which translates into maintaining adequate flexibility of the joints and reduce the friction of cartilage surfaces. Regular use of horsetail - in the form of infusions or supplements - can support the treatment of degenerative conditions, reducing morning pain and stiffness.
Clinical studies indicate that the inclusion of the horsetail in the treatment with osteoartosis improves joint mobility, and its diuretic effect has a positive effect on lowering blood pressure in patients with hypertension. Thanks to this, the plant is sometimes used as an element of support for hypertension and urinary tract diseases.
To sum up, the field horsetail is a versatile raw material, which, apart from the benefits of beauty, supports the proper functioning of the kidneys, urinary tract and joint structures, astringent, diuretic and anti -inflammatory.
Forms of use horsetail: infusion, extract, supplement
To take advantage of the beneficial properties of the horsetail, you can choose from several forms - each of them has its own advantages. The simplest is the form of infusion: 1 tablespoon of dried herb pour 200 ml of boiling water and brew under cover 10-15 minutes. After straining, we drink 100-150 ml of infusion 2-3 times a day. This method allows you to quickly prepare a drink rich in silica and antioxidants.
Liquid or powder extracts are characterized by a higher concentration of active ingredients. Standardized liquid extracts often contain a certain amount of silicon and flavonoids, which facilitates dose control.
Capsules supplements are convenience and dosage precision - depending on the product, the dose is usually 300-500 mg of lift twice a day. It is worth choosing standardized preparations for silicon content, free of artificial additives.
For people looking for intensive cosmetic treatment, you can use hair rinses or skin tonics. After cooling, the infusion is used as a compress or rinse, and alcoholic or olive extracts in the form of compresses soothe irritation and support skin regeneration.
To sum up, the choice of form depends on the purpose of the treatment - infusion for general support, extracts for dose precision, supplements for convenience, and external preparations for skin and hair care.
How long to use horsetail and what doses are safe?
The duration of the vascular treatment depends on individual needs. For the support of beauty and regeneration of hair and nails, it is recommended to take infusion or capsules for a minimum of 8-12 weeks, which allows full reorganization of the keratin matrix.
In the therapy of inflammation of the urinary tract and swelling, the diuretic dose (infusion 3 times a day) can be used for 4 weeks, and then take a break of at least 2 weeks to prevent excessive electrolyte loss.
To strengthen the joints and reduce rheumatic pains, extracts standardized twice a day are 300 mg for 6-8 weeks, with the possibility of repeating after a 2-week break.
Capsules supplements can be used every day for 3 months, then a monthly break is recommended. This strategy minimizes the risk of getting used to the body and maintains high treatment.
In summary, the doses and time of violin treatment should be adapted to the purpose of use, using longer, more intense therapies for cosmetic and joint problems, and shorter, cyclical treatments in urinary tract support.
Contraindications and interaction of the horsetail with drugs
Although the field horsetail is considered a safe raw material, there are situations in which caution should be exercised. First of all, the herb should be avoided in people with sugar economy disorders, because alkaloids can affect glucose metabolism.
Diuretic effect of horsetail may intensify the effects of anti -hypertension drugs and diuretics, so with simultaneous use it is recommended to control the pressure and level of electrolytes.
Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid long -term use of the horsetail due to the lack of sufficient safety tests in these periods.
People with hypersensitivity to plants from the horsetail family may experience allergic reactions - urticaria, rash, and in rare cases of vasomotor edema.
To sum up, the field horsetail is well tolerated, but when you are taking diuretics, hypotensive or glycemic disorders, it is worth consulting a doctor before starting the treatment.
FAQ
1. What does a field horsetail work for?
The field horsetail supports primarily the regeneration of hair, nails and skin thanks to the wealth of silicon. It also has anti -inflammatory and diuretic, which helps in reducing swelling and supports the work of kidneys and urinary tract.
2. How long can you drink a horsetail on your hair?
To get noticeable effects of strengthening hair and nails, it is recommended to regularly use horsetail for at least 8-12 weeks, after which you should take a 2-3-week break.
3. Does the horsetail harm the kidneys?
The horsetail has a gently diuretic effect and usually does not harm the kidneys. However, people with chronic kidney diseases should consult a doctor to avoid excessive electrolyte loss.
4. Is it better to choose a horsetail in tablets or in the form of an infusion?
The form of the infusion is natural and gives more control over the dose, while tablets and capsules provide convenience and dosage precision, especially with standardized extracts.
5. What are the side effects of the field horsetail?
The most frequently reported side effects are stomach ailments, excessive dehydration and allergic reactions in hypersensitive people to violin herbs.
6. What active ingredients contains field horsetail?
The main ingredients are silica, flavonoids (quercetin, apigenin), phenolic acids (coffee, chlorogenic), alkaloids and tannins, which together are responsible for its regenerating and diuretic effect.
7. Can the field horsetail be combined with other dietary supplements?
Yes, horsetail often combines with nettle, horsetail and nettle or biotin in hair and nails complexes. However, keep a time interval between taking various preparations.
Sources
- Pari L., Murugavel P., "Hepatoprotective Equisetum Arvense Extracts", J Ethnopharmacol. 2004.
- Vetvicka V., Vancikova Z., Kral V., "Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammators Activities of HorseTail (Equisetum Arvense) Extract", Phytother Res. 2010.
- Healthline.com, "HorseTail (Equisetum Arvense) Benefits, Dosage & Side Effects".
- Pubchem, "Compound Summary for Cid 5280840 Equisetum Arvense".
- Nowak M., Kowalski P., "Impact of horsetail on hair and nails", Polish phytotherapy. 2019.
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