Equisetum
Also known as: Horsetail, Field horsetail, Equisetum, Equisetum arvense
Overview
Equisetum arvense, commonly known as Horsetail or Field horsetail, is a perennial fern-like plant traditionally recognized for its diuretic, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties. It is typically utilized as a herbal supplement derived from the aerial parts of the plant. While historically used for urinary tract issues and bone health, contemporary research is exploring its potential in neuropathic pain management and its antioxidant capabilities. The current body of evidence includes a moderate level of preclinical and some preliminary clinical studies, indicating promising effects, though comprehensive systematic reviews and large-scale human trials are still limited.
Benefits
Equisetum arvense demonstrates several potential benefits, primarily supported by preclinical research. It exhibits significant anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, as shown in a 2025 rat model study where hydroalcoholic extracts increased colonic antioxidant enzymes (glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase), outperforming standard treatments in ulcerative colitis models. This suggests a strong capacity to reduce oxidative stress. Furthermore, in vitro studies indicate its potential in neuropathic pain modulation; when combined with palmitoylethanolamide (PEA), Equisetum improved Schwann cell viability and reduced oxidative stress in peripheral nerve injury models. Animal studies also suggest metabolic benefits, including improved insulin sensitivity and glycemic control through SIRT1 activation, and positive effects on bone mineral density. While these findings are promising, human clinical trials are scarce and small-scale, meaning the clinical significance and effect sizes in humans require further robust investigation.
How it works
The mechanism of action for Equisetum arvense is primarily linked to its rich phytochemical composition. Its antioxidant activity is attributed to the upregulation of endogenous antioxidant enzymes like glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and superoxide dismutase (SOD), which effectively reduce oxidative stress and inflammation within tissues. For neuroprotective effects, Equisetum appears to modulate Schwann cell biology, improve mitochondrial metabolism, and reduce reactive oxygen species (ROS), particularly when combined with other compounds. The observed metabolic benefits, such as improved insulin sensitivity, are thought to be mediated through the activation of SIRT1, a key regulator of cellular metabolism. While specific bioavailability data are limited, hydroalcoholic extracts are commonly used to optimize the extraction and absorption of its active compounds.
Side effects
Equisetum arvense generally appears safe in animal models at studied dosages, such as 600 mg/kg orally in rats. However, comprehensive data on common side effects in humans are limited due to the scarcity of large-scale clinical trials. Historically, horsetail contains thiaminase, an enzyme that can deplete vitamin B1 (thiamine) if consumed in excessive amounts over prolonged periods; however, modern standardized extracts often mitigate this risk. No significant drug interactions or contraindications have been robustly reported in the current scientific literature. It is important to note that there is insufficient safety data for special populations, including pregnant or lactating individuals and children, and therefore, its use in these groups is not recommended without medical supervision.
Dosage
Dosing guidelines for Equisetum arvense in humans are not well-established due to the limited number of large-scale randomized controlled trials. Preclinical animal studies have utilized doses around 600 mg/kg orally for observing antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Traditional use often involves teas or non-standardized extracts, but the precise effective doses for specific health benefits in humans remain undefined. The timing of administration and the formulation (e.g., oral vs. topical or enema) may influence efficacy, as suggested by studies on ulcerative colitis models. Currently, there is no established maximum safe dose in humans derived from high-quality clinical studies, and users should exercise caution and consult healthcare professionals.
FAQs
Is horsetail effective for inflammation?
Preclinical evidence, particularly from animal studies, supports the anti-inflammatory effects of horsetail, primarily through the upregulation of antioxidant enzymes. Human clinical data are still limited.
Can horsetail help neuropathic pain?
In vitro studies suggest potential benefits for neuropathic pain, especially when combined with PEA, by improving Schwann cell viability and reducing oxidative stress. Clinical human evidence is currently lacking.
Is horsetail safe?
Horsetail appears safe in animal studies at tested doses. Human safety data are limited, but no major adverse effects have been widely reported in controlled settings. Caution is advised due to limited human trials.
How long does it take to see effects from horsetail?
Animal studies typically assess outcomes over days to weeks. The timeline for observing effects in humans is not yet established due to the lack of extensive clinical research.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12012093/ – This animal study investigated the effects of Equisetum arvense hydroalcoholic extract on ulcerative colitis in rats. It found that the extract significantly increased colonic antioxidant enzymes (GPx and SOD) and reduced inflammation, outperforming standard treatment, indicating strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10053612/ – This in vitro study explored the neuroprotective effects of Equisetum arvense in combination with palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) on Schwann cells. The combination improved cell viability and reduced reactive oxygen species, suggesting a synergistic potential for managing neuropathic pain.
- https://www.signos.com/blog/horsetail-herb – This source discusses various animal studies indicating that Equisetum arvense may activate SIRT1, leading to improved insulin sensitivity and glycemic control in diabetic rat models. It also mentions potential positive effects on bone mineral density in rats, highlighting its metabolic and bone health benefits.
