What is Horsetail (Shavegrass)?
What is Horsetail (Shavegrass)? Horsetail (Shavegrass) is native to North America and Europe. It is one of only a few Equisetum survivors from the dinosaur era, where the plant was the same size as a modern-day palm tree. Horsetail is a perennial plant that has two very different type of stems, depending on the season. During early spring, the stem has the same appearance as a stalk of asparagus. Later in the summer, the stem appears thin, green, and somewhat feathery.
Horsetail has the most abundant source of silica in the plant kingdom. The high silica content makes it a beneficial treatment for osteoporosis. The herb has also been found to increase urine production which has made it an herbal remedy for kidney stones, edema, and urinary tract infections.
In the past horsetail has been used to stop bleeding, repair broken bones, and has been used as an herbal remedy for arthritis. This anti-inflammatory effect has also been used for treating the prostate gland or benign enlargement of the prostate.
Some side effects of horsetail:
Lowering blood sugar levels in people with diabetes.
Horsetail also contains small amounts of nicotine. People with nicotine allergy might have an allergic reaction to horsetail.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Horsetail should not be ingested if you renal and cardiac dysfunction.
Source: https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/herbs-and-spices/horsetail.html