by This plant has not been associated with benefits for hair or nails, but also to soothe pain caused by bone diseases or symptoms of severe knee ailments, thanks to its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
The middle better with health explains that the horsetail never stops growing and “keeps its roots very deep and the distinctive tubers of this species always sprout.”
According to the portal, among the functions that this plant has are:
- Regenerative properties of the skin.
- High content of vitamin E and D.
- Contains proteins and amino acids (essential for the preparation of anti-aging ointments and creams).
- It is a powerful cleanser of natural origin.
- Known to be antiseptic and anti-inflammatory.
- Helps with healthy weight loss.
Regarding the aesthetic part, there are many people who seek to strengthen and grow their hair and nails in a natural way and the ponytail can be a great help.
– Photo: Getty Images
“Being a natural antifungal, it prevents the appearance and deterioration of the cuticle in the nail and It is ideal for strengthening them”, ensures Better with health.
He also adds that it is good for the skin since it regenerates cells thanks to the high silicon content and the contribution of vitamins D and E.
One of the recommendations is that it is not mixed with medicines, since it can be harmful to health and before ingesting it, consult an expert. In addition, its use is not recommended for more than six weeks. “Excesses with respect to the consumption of horsetail will be reflected in the digestive tract and mucous membranes of the body, causing diarrhea or edema.”
Horsetail tea: what are its benefits and contraindications?
According to information from MedlinePlusUS National Library of Medicine website, horsetail refers to several species of plants in the genus equisetum that they can help reduce fluid retention, however, it is warned that they can cause vitamin B1 deficiency when used long-term.
For its part, Sanitas adds that horsetail is traditionally used to reduce fluid retention, as a treatment for urinary tract infections, incontinence, kidney disorders, as well as kidney and bladder stones. However, she points out that the scientific evidence is scant and, as with other home remedies, it is important to consult a medical specialist before trying any of them.
Ingredients:
- A cup of boiling water.
- A tablespoon of horsetail.
Preparation:
Put the dried horsetail stem into the cup of boiling water and let it steep for 5 to 10 minutes. Once the time has elapsed, it must be strained to remove impurities and it is ready to drink, preferably after the main meals of the day.
It is convenient to take into account the scenarios in which it is not recommended to ingest horsetail tea. According to Sanitas, it should be avoided in the following cases:
- Pregnancy and lactation: There is no evidence on the safety of horsetail in pregnancy and during lactation.
- Diabetes: Horsetail might lower blood sugar levels in diabetic patients.
- Low potassium levels (hypokalemia): Horsetail can lower potassium levels by increasing its elimination.
- Thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency: horsetail could make it worse.
- Horsetail contains chromium so it may increase the risk of chromium poisoning when taken with chromium-containing herbs or chromium supplements: cranberry, brewer’s yeast, or cascara.
