The Spreading Horsetail, scientifically known as Equisetum diffusum, is a bushy perennial herbaceous fern native to Europe, Asia, and North America. In Nepal, this plant thrives in moist locations around 2000 meters and is commonly called "Kurkure Jhar." It belongs to the Equisetaceae family and typically grows 1-2 feet tall. The green, jointed stem features scale-like leaves arranged in whorls.
For centuries, the Spreading Horsetail has been treasured for its medicinal properties. It's an abundant source of silica, an essential mineral for maintaining healthy bones, joints, and connective tissues. Moreover, the plant exhibits anti-inflammatory, diuretic, and astringent properties. Both fresh and dried aboveground parts of the horsetail are utilized for medicinal purposes.
Major health benefits of Equisetum diffusum are mentioned below:
- Diuretic qualities: It can aid in boosting urine production, thus flushing out extra bodily fluids. This characteristic may be helpful for situations like edema (fluid retention), urinary tract infections, and kidney stones.
- Healing wounds: High levels of silica found in this herb are considered to support tissue regeneration and wound recovery. It can be applied topically in the form of a poultice or ointments to ease and heal minor scrapes, burns, and skin irritations.
- Strengthening bones: Spreading horsetail herb is abundant in minerals like silica and calcium which are crucial in maintaining strong bones, teeth, and connective tissues. It can be used as a supplementary herb for conditions such as osteoporosis and arthritis.
- Enhancing skin health: Owing to its silica content, spreading horsetail herb is occasionally incorporated into skincare products for potential skin health benefits. It might aid in enhancing skin strength, elasticity, and texture.
- Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory advantages: Research indicates that spreading horsetail herb may have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory qualities. These traits could help safeguard cells from damage triggered by harmful free radicals, thereby contributing to overall health and well-being.
You can find horsetail in various forms:
- Dried herb
- Liquid preparations
It can be consumed in various ways, such as:
- Tea: Prepare an herbal infusion or tea by steeping dried spreading horsetail herb in a cup of hot water
- Tincture: Spreading horsetail herb is also available in tincture form, which is an alcohol-based extract. Just follow the dosage instructions provided on the tincture bottle or as recommended by an herbalist or healthcare professional.
- Supplements: Spreading horsetail herb is also available in capsule or supplement form. These products typically come with recommended dosages, so it's essential to follow the instructions provided on the packaging or consult with a healthcare professional.
In Nepal, many people use herbal medicines, and spreading Horsetail is one of the popular medicinal plants used to address a variety of health issues such as arthritis, gout, kidney stones, and urinary tract infections. Additionally, Nepalese people also consume it in the form of tea.
It is important to remember that before using any herbal remedy for medicinal reasons, one should always consult with a healthcare professional and get their opinion.