MEDICINAL:
Horsetail is used in treating urinary tract infections and inflammation of the prostate. It aids in coagulation and decreases bleeding. It will also help broken bones heal faster, and will help brittle nails and hair, due to its high silica content. It has also been used as part of a treatment for rheumatoid arthritis, for ulcers, and for anemia. The plant alone, boiled in water, makes an effective foot soak for tired feet, or for the treatment of athlete's foot, and to rid the face of excess body oil to help control acne. Do not use if pregnant or nursing. The silica content is too high for the developing child both in and out of the womb. Also known as Shave Grass.
GROWING:
Horsetail needs swamps and damp places to grow, in full sun to partial shade. It grows to 1 to 2 feet tall. The plant itself is used in healing.
