What is horsetail extract?

If you’re expecting me to giddy-up and gallop around the bush, then honey, you’ve got another thing coming. This article is all about horsetail extract – what it is, where it comes from, and why we should care about this herb that sounds like a name for an old racehorse.

Buckle up cowboy, we’re going on a wild ride

Before we start talking about horsetail extract as a supplement or remedy for any conditions (we’ll get there soon enough), let’s first look at what exactly it is:

Horsetail extract is derived from Equisetum arvense, also known as common horsetail or puzzlegrass. It’s an herbaceous plant that belongs to the Equisetaceae family.

Now, if you ran out of breath while pronouncing “Equisetum,” don’t worry – I did too. But one thing’s for sure: this plant has been used in traditional medicine for centuries.

So what makes horsetail so special? Here are some of its most notable features:

Rich in minerals

One unique characteristic of the common horsetail plant is its mineral content. In fact, it contains high levels of silica – an essential nutrient vital to good overall health.

Silica helps keep our bones and connective tissues strong by supporting collagen synthesis. It also promotes healthy skin elasticity and can improve hair growth (hint hint: beauty buffs take note).

Moreover, silica aids in detoxification by clearing aluminum buildup which may lead to brain-related complications such as Alzheimer’s disease-associated dementia [1]

Anti-inflammatory properties

Inflammation isn’t always bad; sometimes our bodies use inflammation as a defense mechanism against injury or infection (otherwise known as acute inflammation). However chronic (long-term) inflammation can have serious consequences on our health system-wide.

Luckily, research indicates that horsetail extract has natural anti-inflammatory properties [2]. This means it may help reduce chronic inflammation and improve immune function.

Antioxidant-rich

Oxidative damage caused by free radicals is a contributing factor to many diseases. These pesky little molecules can wreak havoc on our cells before our body’s defense mechanisms (i.e., antioxidants) kick in to neutralize them.

Fortunately, horsetail extract contains high levels of phenolic compounds – potent antioxidants that combat oxidative damage in the body [3].

Ahem! Now that we know what common horsetail plant is all about let’s talk a bit further regarding how its extracted form can be helpful for us:

Promotes hair growth

It might seem like an old wife’s tale, but using some herbal remedies such as horsetails have been proved effective against hair loss [4].

But wait—how does this work? Horsetail’s silica content strengthens both collagen and keratin – proteins responsible for increasing hair strength & robustness. It also improves blood microcirculation in the scalp through sulfated glycosides present resulting in better nutrient delivery creating a favorable condition for optimal growth rate and pattern with reduced baldness[5]!

Furthermore keeping dandruff at bay another irritating feature which affects maintaining healthy upkeep of tresses.

Supports bone health(Added)

We already talked about the silica content being beneficial earlier , but now let’s discuss it specifically relating to bone density.

Silica plays crucial role supporting calcium absorption hence contribute towards building strong bones and ward off conditions like osteoporosis- impacting millions globally especially women where post-menopausal phase increases chance abruptly[6]. Concoction of greater number silica fibres re meshing around existing holes found when scanned x-rays with reduced fragility due to micronutrients equivalent to calcium namely magnesium manganese & zinc promotes optimal bony skeleton [7].

Aids digestion and excretion

The horsetail plant has a mild diuretic effect that can enhance urine output – hence was used for UTI and enlarged prostate related complications; eventually wound healing. These properties make it an effective bladder discomfort relief tool.

There are added benefits on the digestive system as well: A combination of antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory nature compounds found in horsetail reduce bloating from gas accumulation helping alleviate bowel-irritation[8]!

Do tread caution with higher dosage however,having potentiality worsening dehydration.

Improves skin health

Besides strength collagen induction which enhances connective tissue ,Horsetail extract makes great addition to skincare routines working against acne scars through quicker recovery process
Moreover masking complexion by keeping cells vigorous yielding a youthful glow thanks silica’s work rejuvenating effectively dealing dull look.

Now we’ve talked about what horsetail is good for let’s check out how we can fetch these benefits:

Some of the most convenient forms include capsules, powders, tinctures or herbal tea but its versatility allows easy alternatives too:

Infused Oils

Rummaging around could find infused oils such as olive coconut or castor mixed with other essential elements like vitamin E lavender rosemary depening user need including those looking dandruff control reducing hair fall providing softness shine lustre [9].

As Dietary Supplement Itself

At supermarkets closer evaluation finds bottles packaged liquid extracts fitting nightstands for tablespoon measurements according label instructions upto thrice daily use!. Alternatively powdered supplements too efficiently comes into play mix-and-match extracting solvents ranging water glycerin creating custom tailored dosages [10]. But do not go exceeding allowed limits , having converse side effects based on individual capacity& susceptibility factors ! Health always best in the right amounts.

Add to Smoothies

If you’re a fan of smoothies or juicing out, look no further than horsetail. It makes for an excellent complement as it is versatile and hence can easily blend with other fruits like pineapple ,banana ginger kale to name a few[11]. Additionally perfect since downing liquid renders dosages sooner response from body quick !

Phew! That was one wild ride through the world of horsetail extract – but hopefully you got something out of it that could benefit your health (or at least made you chuckle).

From promoting hair growth and improving skin texture to aiding digestion, reducing inflammation and supporting healthy bones, horsetail extract packs quite a punch when it comes to herbal remedies.

So next time someone asks “what exactly is horsetail extract?” You’ll be able to whip out some fun facts about this herbaceous plant that’s been used in traditional medicine for centuries. Just don’t challenge them to pronounce “Equisetum.” [That’s our secret between us now won’t spill beans oops leaves… Can we talk about something else please? Perhaps another unusual herb?]

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