12 Powerful Benefits Of Horsetail Tea, How To Make & Side Effects

Horsetail tea is made from the dried stems and leaves of the horsetail plant, a prehistoric plant that resembles a tiny pine tree. It has been used in traditional medicine for centuries to treat various ailments and for it powerful health benefits.

In this article, we’ll explore the 12 science-backed health benefits of horsetail tea, how to make it at home and potential side effects to be aware of. Read on to learn why horsetail tea could be an excellent addition to your wellness routine.

Health Benefits of Horsetail Tea

Horsetail tea, made from the Equisetum arvense plant, is known for its numerous health benefits. Here are the main advantages associated with consuming horsetail tea:

1. Promotes Bone Health

Horsetail tea is rich in silica, a mineral essential for bone density and strength.

Silica plays a key role in promoting the absorption of calcium, which is crucial for maintaining strong bones and preventing bone-related disorders like osteoporosis.

Studies have found that silica can help stimulate bone cell growth, thereby strengthening bone tissue and helping reduce bone brittleness, especially in older adults.

To maximize the horsetail tea benefits for bone health, drink it regularly, particularly with calcium-rich foods like dairy or leafy greens. This combination supports the body’s natural ability to build and maintain strong bones.

2. Benefits Skin Health

One of the most celebrated benefits of horsetail tea is its positive impact on skin health.

Silica in horsetail contributes to collagen production, which is essential for skin elasticity, hydration, and repair.

Collagen also plays a role in healing wounds and reducing the appearance of scars, making horsetail tea an excellent choice for supporting smooth and vibrant skin.

For optimal horsetail skin benefits, drink daily to boost collagen levels and use cooled as a facial toner to tighten pores and reduce oiliness.

Adding lemon to your tea will further enhance its skin benefits.

3. Hair Benefits

Horsetail tea is believed to benefit hair health due to its silica content. Silica is a mineral that strengthens hair and improves its texture. It may also help stimulate hair growth by improving blood circulation to the scalp.

Additionally, horsetail tea is rich in antioxidants, which help combat scalp inflammation and reduce hair fall.

However, it’s important to note that while there are some studies suggesting the potential benefits of horsetail for hair, more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness.

Here are some ways you can use horsetail tea for hair:

Drinking the Tea: Regularly drinking this tea can provide internal benefits, potentially contributing to overall hair health.
Rinsing Hair: After shampooing, you can rinse your hair with this tea. This can help strengthen hair and add shine.
Hair Mask: You can create a hair mask by mixing this tea with other hair-friendly ingredients like honey or coconut oil. Apply the mask to your hair and scalp, leave it on for 15-20 minutes, and then rinse thoroughly.

To optimize hair benefits Add a bit of rosemary to your tea, as rosemary is also known for its hair-strengthening properties.

4. Enhances Nail Strength

Silica’s presence in horsetail tea makes it a fantastic natural option for strengthening nails. By providing the essential building blocks for nail formation, silica contributes to nails that are less brittle and less prone to splitting or breaking.

Regular consumption of this tea can lead to healthier, more resilient nails that are less likely to develop ridges or damage from external factors.

Taking horsetail tea with a biotin supplement can amplify these benefits, as biotin is another nutrient essential for nail health.

5. Boosts Immune Function

Horsetail is packed with antioxidants, which can support immune function by protecting cells from oxidative stress. These antioxidants help eliminate free radicals that can weaken the immune system over time.

Additionally, horsetail contains small amounts of vitamin C, which is well-known for its immune-boosting properties. By reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, horsetail tea can help support a healthy, responsive immune system.

To make the most of its immune-boosting effects, drink it regularly, especially during colder months. Adding honey can further enhance the tea’s ability to soothe the throat and provide antimicrobial benefits.

6. Aids in Urinary Health

Horsetail is a natural diuretic, meaning it helps increase urine flow, making it helpful for flushing out toxins and supporting kidney health. This diuretic property can help prevent water retention and may reduce the likelihood of urinary tract infections (UTIs).

Traditionally, this tea has been used to support bladder health and reduce inflammation in the urinary system.

For urinary health, drink horsetail tea at least once a day, and consider combining it with cranberry juice, which is also beneficial for UTIs. Drinking it in the morning allows your body to expel toxins efficiently throughout the day.

7. Reduces Inflammation

Horsetail contains flavonoids and antioxidants with anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation throughout the body.

This makes it a good choice for individuals suffering from inflammatory conditions like arthritis.

The natural compounds in this tea have been shown to reduce swelling and discomfort, making it a popular natural remedy in traditional medicine.

To support inflammation reduction, drink horsetail tea daily. Adding a slice of ginger can enhance its anti-inflammatory effects, as ginger is well-known for reducing inflammation as well.

8. Supports Digestive Health

Horsetail contains compounds that support digestive health by promoting better nutrient absorption and reducing inflammation in the digestive tract. This can be especially beneficial for those who suffer from digestive issues like bloating or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Drinking horsetail after meals can help soothe the digestive system and promote a sense of relief from discomfort. Adding a bit of mint to the tea can further aid digestion and provide a soothing effect on the stomach.

9. Acts as a Natural Detoxifier

As a natural diuretic, this tea helps the body eliminate toxins through increased urine production. This detoxifying effect can support liver and kidney health, as it promotes the removal of metabolic waste and excess fluids.

Regular detoxification is essential for maintaining overall wellness, and horsetail gentle action makes it a good option for routine cleansing.

To support detoxification, enjoy this beverage in the morning with a splash of lemon juice. The vitamin C in lemon helps boost the detoxifying effects, supporting your body’s natural cleansing processes.

10. Improves Respiratory Health

Horsetail tea is known for its ability to support respiratory health. Its anti-inflammatory properties help reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract, which can be beneficial for those suffering from asthma or bronchitis.

Additionally, It’s antioxidant content may help protect the lungs from damage caused by environmental toxins.

For respiratory benefits of horsetail tea, drink it regularly, especially during allergy season. Adding a spoonful of honey, which has natural antimicrobial properties, can provide additional respiratory support.

11. Supports Wound Healing

Horsetail is traditionally used for wound healing due to its high silica content, which promotes collagen production.

Collagen is vital for skin repair and elasticity, making horsetail tea beneficial for wounds and skin injuries.

Studies have shown that silica can enhance tissue regeneration, making the tea a good addition to a wound care regimen.

For wound healing, drink horsetail regularly and apply the cool tea to the affected area using a cotton pad. This can be done a few times a day to support faster healing and reduce the appearance of scars.

12. Reduces Anxiety and Promotes Relaxation

Horsetail tea contains compounds that may promote relaxation and reduce anxiety. While it’s not a sedative, horsetail tea’s ability to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress may contribute to a more balanced mental state.

Many users find that drinking this tea helps them feel calmer, making it a good addition to an evening routine.

How to Make Horsetail Tea (Recipe)

Making horsetail tea is simple and can be done at home. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to prepare this herbal tea, along with helpful tips to enhance your experience.

Ingredients Needed

1 tablespoon of dried horsetail stems
1 cup of boiling water

Step-by-Step Instructions

Boil the Water:

Start by bringing a cup of water to a rolling boil. Using fresh, filtered water can enhance the flavor of your tea.

Add the Dried Horsetail:

Place 1 tablespoon of dried horsetail stems into a teapot or a heatproof container.

Steep the Tea:

Pour the boiling water over the horsetail. Cover the container with a lid or a small plate to retain the steam and heat. Allow the tea to steep for about 5 to 10 minutes. The longer you steep, the stronger the flavor and potential health benefits will be.

Strain the Tea:

After steeping, strain the tea using a fine mesh sieve to remove the horsetail stems.

Serve and Enjoy:

Your horsetail tea is now ready to drink! You can enjoy it plain or add a sweetener like honey or a slice of lemon for added flavor.

Helpful Tips

Limit Consumption: It is recommended to drink horsetail tea in moderation, ideally not exceeding 2 cups per day. Prolonged use (more than one week) may lead to dehydration and loss of essential minerals.
Observe the Color: As you brew the tea, you may notice a change in color. The infusion can range from light yellow to a deeper amber, depending on the steeping time and the amount of horsetail used.
Storage of Dried Horsetail: Store dried horsetail in a cool, dark place in an airtight container to maintain its potency and flavor.
Consult a Healthcare Provider: If you are pregnant, nursing, or have existing health conditions, consult with a healthcare provider before consuming horsetail tea, as it may not be suitable for everyone.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to enhance the flavor of your horsetail tea by adding other herbs or spices, such as ginger or mint, which can complement its earthy taste.

Making horsetail tea is a straightforward process that allows you to enjoy a herbal beverage with various health benefits. By following these steps and tips, you can create a delicious and nutritious drink that can be enjoyed hot or cold.

Note: Horsetail tea has a mild, slightly earthy flavor, similar to a light vegetable broth or a subtle green tea. It’s a rather neutral taste that can be enhanced with the addition of honey, lemon, or other natural sweeteners.

Potential Side Effects of Horsetail Tea

Horsetail tea is generally considered safe for short-term use. However, it can lead to several potential side effects, especially when consumed in high doses or for extended periods. Here are the main side effects associated with horsetail tea:

Kidney Issues: Excessive consumption of horsetail tea may strain the kidneys and potentially lead to kidney problems.
Digestive Upset: Some individuals may experience digestive issues like diarrhea or stomach upset.
Allergic Reactions: People with allergies to plants in the Equisetaceae family may experience allergic reactions, including skin rashes and respiratory problems.
Nutrient Depletion: Prolonged use may deplete certain nutrients in the body, such as thiamine and vitamin B12.

Who Shouldn’t Drink Horsetail Tea?

Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women.
Individuals with Kidney Conditions
People with Low Potassium Levels
Those Taking Medications

Recommendations for Consuming Horsetail Tea

Consult with a Healthcare Professional
Monitor for Side Effects
Choose High-Quality Products

While horsetail tea offers potential health benefits, it’s crucial to approach it with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare professional. By understanding its potential side effects and limitations, you can make informed decisions about its use.

Final Thoughts

Horsetail tea provides a unique combination of minerals, antioxidants, and natural compounds that support overall health. Its wide range of benefits—from skin and hair health to respiratory support and bone strength—make it a versatile addition to a wellness routine. Drinking horsetail tea regularly can help you enjoy these benefits, and pairing it with complementary herbs or nutrients can further enhance its effects.

Learn more:

Horsetail Tea: 12 Health Benefits, Recipe and Side Effects