What it does: Horsetail supports the formation and structural integrity of connective tissues by supplying bioavailable silica, which is involved in collagen synthesis for healthy skin, hair, nails, bones, and joints. It also has mild diuretic and antioxidant properties.
How it is used: Used in supplements aimed at promoting strong hair and nails, connective tissue and joint support, and urinary tract maintenance or fluid balance.
Natural sources and supplement forms: Naturally found in the green stems of Equisetum arvense, horsetail is offered as dried herb, liquid extract, or standardized powder (often specifying silica content) in capsules or tablets.
Why it appears in supplement formulas: Horsetail Extract is included for its ability to provide natural silica, which is valued for beauty, mobility, and tissue health in wellness and cosmetic formulas.
What to know before use: Prolonged, high-dose use may lower vitamin B1 levels due to thiaminase content, so caution is advised for those with B1 deficiency or kidney concerns.
Interesting Fact
Horsetail: An Ancient Plant Packed with Silica
Horsetail extract, derived from the Equisetum arvense plant, is naturally rich in the mineral silica—a compound important for supporting the structure of hair, skin, and nails. This plant has been around since the age of the dinosaurs, making it one of the oldest living plant species still used today in supplements for its unique natural composition.
