10 Health Benefits Of Equisetum Arvense (Field Horsetail)

Equisetum arvense, also known as field horsetail, has health benefits such as reducing inflammation and improving bone density due to its high silica and flavonoid content.

These properties can alleviate joint pain and osteoporosis, allowing individuals to engage in physical activities without discomfort. Improved bone health also enables people to maintain their independence and mobility, enhancing their overall quality of life.

This is especially beneficial for older adults and individuals with mobility issues.

This article explains in details the 10 best health benefits of Equisetum arvense.

1. Supports bone health

Equisetum arvense supports bone health because of its rich content of silicon, calcium, and other minerals that help to strengthen bones.

The plant's silica-rich extract has been shown to increase collagen production, improve bone density, and reduce the risk of osteoporosis. Additionally, field horsetail contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to alleviate joint pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis.

Overall, incorporating Equisetum arvense into one's diet or using it as a supplement may provide a natural way to support bone health and overall wellness.

2. Promotes wound healing

Equisetum arvense promotes wound healing because of its unique combination of bioactive compounds.

The plant contains flavonoids, phenolic acids, and silicates that have been shown to exhibit antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. These properties help to prevent infection, reduce swelling, and promote collagen synthesis, all of which are essential for proper wound healing.

Additionally, the plant's high silica content may also stimulate collagen production and improve tissue strength.

3. Helps prevent anemia

Equisetum arvense helps prevent anemia because of its rich iron content.

The plant's fronds are an excellent source of ferric ammonium citrate, a form of iron that is easily absorbed by the body. Iron plays a crucial role in transporting oxygen throughout the blood, preventing anemia caused by iron deficiency.

Additionally, field horsetail's antiferritin properties help to increase iron absorption and reduce oxidative stress, further supporting its anemia-preventing effects.

4. Aids in kidney function

Equisetum arvense aids in kidney function because of its unique composition of minerals and compounds that support urinary tract health.

Its high levels of silicon and potassium help to detoxify the kidneys by removing excess waste and toxins from the body.

Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties may reduce inflammation in the kidneys, which can alleviate symptoms of conditions such as chronic kidney disease.

5. Reduces inflammation

Equisetum arvense reduces inflammation because of its rich content of flavonoids and phenolic acids.

These bioactive compounds have potent anti-inflammatory properties that inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, thereby reducing swelling and pain.

Additionally, the plant's silicate-rich fronds may help to neutralize free radicals and oxidative stress, further contributing to its anti-inflammatory effects.

6. Enhances skin health

Equisetum arvense enhances skin health because of its rich antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

The plant's extract is often used in skincare products to soothe acne-prone skin, reduce redness and irritation, and even out skin tone.

Its high levels of silica also help to improve skin elasticity and firmness, leaving the skin looking smoother and more radiant.

7. Improves cardiovascular health

Equisetum arvense improves cardiovascular health because of its rich content of flavonoids and saponins.

These bioactive compounds have been shown to exhibit potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease by lowering LDL cholesterol levels, inhibiting platelet aggregation, and relaxing blood vessels.

This natural remedy has been traditionally used to treat conditions such as hypertension, atherosclerosis, and cardiac arrhythmias, making it an effective way to promote overall cardiovascular well-being.

8. Supports thyroid function

Equisetum arvense supports thyroid function because it is rich in silica, a mineral that plays a crucial role in thyroid hormone production.

Silica helps to stabilize and balance the production of thyroid hormones, ensuring optimal metabolic function.

Additionally, field horsetail's antioxidant properties help to protect the thyroid gland from oxidative damage, further promoting healthy thyroid function.

9. Regulates blood sugar levels

Equisetum arvense regulates blood sugar levels because of its unique ability to inhibit alpha-glucosidase, an enzyme responsible for breaking down carbohydrates into simple sugars.

This inhibition slows the absorption of glucose into the bloodstream, thereby reducing insulin resistance and improving glucose metabolism.

As a result, field horsetail has been traditionally used in herbal medicine to manage blood sugar levels and potentially alleviate symptoms associated with diabetes.

10. Boosts immune system

Equisetum arvense boosts immune system because of its rich antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.

The plant's high content of silica, flavonoids, and polyphenols helps to neutralize free radicals and reduce inflammation in the body, thereby enhancing the body's natural defense mechanisms.

Additionally, field horsetail's antifungal and antibacterial properties help to combat infections and promote a healthy gut microbiome, supporting a strong immune response.