Horsetail is a diuretic herbal supplement that can relieve fluid retention and bloating. It is also believed to help treat osteoporosis, but medical research has not confirmed this. Potential side effects include thiamine and potassium deficiencies and the introduction of nicotine into the bloodstream.
Horsetail is an herbal supplement derived from the horsetail plant. It is available as a capsule, powder, and liquid, and is primarily used as a diuretic, or as a substance that helps the body get rid of excess fluid. While some alternative medicine practitioners also recommend its use to treat osteoporosis, traditional medical research has yet to validate these uses. Before taking the supplement, users should be aware of its potential side effects, which can include thiamine and potassium deficiencies, as well as the introduction of nicotine into the bloodstream.
Some medical evidence supports the use of horsetail as a diuretic. When taken regularly, the supplement tends to cause increased urine output, thus relieving the body of excess fluids. This diuretic property makes the supplement useful for those who suffer from chronic fluid retention and bloating, and may provide relief for kidney stone sufferers. For best results, herbalists recommend three daily doses of the supplement, either in capsule form or in a tea made from horsetail powder or diluted liquid. However, to prevent dehydration, the supplement should not be used in combination with other diuretic products.
Many alternative medicine practitioners also recommend the use of horsetail to treat osteoporosis, a condition in which bones lose density and become extremely susceptible to breakage. Its supposed usefulness in the treatment of osteoporosis is based on its high levels of silicon, a mineral that contributes to bone strength. However, medical research has yet to confirm or disprove the bone-strengthening potential of the supplement. Therefore, until the supplement is better understood, its value for osteoporosis sufferers remains questionable.
As with any herbal supplement, users should be aware of potential side effects before beginning a horsetail regimen. Some evidence suggests that regular use of horsetail may reduce the body’s levels of thiamine, a vitamin that aids in digestion. As substantial alcohol consumption can also deplete the body’s stores of thiamine, people with alcohol dependence should avoid the supplement. Additionally, prolonged use can lead to deficiencies of the mineral potassium, which is crucial for healthy organ function. Therefore, it is not recommended for pregnant or lactating women or those with heart disease.
Finally, horsetail contains trace amounts of nicotine, the drug found in tobacco products like cigarettes. The supplement should be avoided by those currently using nicotine replacement therapy products such as patches, gums, and inhalers. In addition, its use in small children is not advisable.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
