What is Horsetail Stem Extract?

Horsetail stem extract is an herbal preparation made from Equisetum arvense. It is valued for its naturally high silica content and traditional use for urinary and connective tissue support.

What are the main benefits of Horsetail Stem Extract?

It is commonly used to support bone and connective tissue health, provide mild diuretic support, and improve the appearance and strength of hair, skin, and nails. Effects can vary by product and individual.

How much Horsetail Stem Extract should I take?

Common supplemental amounts are about 300–900 mg per day, depending on the extract and label directions. Follow the product’s instructions and consult a clinician if you have medical conditions.

Is Horsetail Stem Extract a diuretic?

Horsetail is often described as a mild diuretic and may increase urine output. If you use diuretic medications or have kidney or electrolyte concerns, seek medical advice before use.

Who should avoid Horsetail Stem Extract?

People who are pregnant or breastfeeding, have kidney disease, or take diuretics or lithium should consult a healthcare professional before using it. Choose reputable products and avoid long-term use unless advised by a clinician.

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Vitamin B

Vitamin B1 (Thiamine)

Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)

Vitamin B3 (Niacin)

Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid)

Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine)

Vitamin B7 (Biotin)

Vitamin B9 (Folic Acid)

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Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin)

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Trimethylglycine (Betaine)

NMN (Nicotinamide Mononucleotide)

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D-Chiro-Inositol

Coenzym Q10 (Ubiquinone)

Betaine HCL

Nicotinamide Riboside

Vitamin B8 (Myo-Inositol)

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Coenzyme Q10 (Ubiquinol)

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Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA)

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)

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PABA (para-aminobenzoic acid)

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Horsetail Stem Extract

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Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG)

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Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceus)

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Cat's Claw (Uncaria tomentosa)

Arjuna (Terminalia arjuna)

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Rhodiola rosea

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Mushrooms

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Astragalus Polysaccharides

Hyaluronic Acid

Glucosamine Sulfate

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Glucosamine Sulphate 2KCL

Horsetail Stem
Extract

Limited research available·3/10

A higher score indicates better study conditions, but not necessarily effectiveness.

Herbal supplement rich in silica, traditionally used to support bone health, urinary tract function, and improve hair, skin, and nail condition.

Bone Health Skin Health Kidney Health

dose range

300–900 mg

2–3 divided doses daily

Consumption

Best taken with food to enhance absorption and reduce the risk of gastric discomfort. Use supplements standardized to silica or silicon content.

Not fat-soluble.

Best time

Preferably with meals.

Description

Horsetail stem extract (Equisetum arvense) is a mineral-rich botanical commonly used in traditional and modern herbal remedies for its potential effects on bone, urinary, and cosmetic health. Key constituent is silica.

benefits

Main effects with level of evidence

Limited

Note on evidence

While horsetail has a long history of medicinal use, high-quality clinical trials in humans are limited. Most evidence derives from animal studies, small human trials, and mechanistic research.

Supports Bone Health

Limited

Horsetail’s high silica content may aid collagen production and bone mineralization, potentially supporting bone density and bone repair.

Particularly relevant for: Older adults · Osteopenic or osteoporotic individuals · Postmenopausal women

S1 · BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders

Mild Diuretic and Urinary Tract Support

Limited

Studies suggest horsetail may act as a mild diuretic and assist urinary tract health, helping with water retention and potentially reducing urinary tract irritation.

Particularly relevant for: Individuals with mild fluid retention · Those seeking urinary tract health support

S2 · Journal of Ethnopharmacology

Improves Hair, Skin, and Nail Health

Limited

Silicon from horsetail may benefit hair strength, reduce hair breakage, and improve skin and nail appearance, especially in cases of brittle hair and nails.

Particularly relevant for: Individuals with brittle hair · Those seeking improved skin or nail quality

S3 · Anais Brasileiros de Dermatologia

Safety & Information

Important safety information & known risks

For educational purposes only • not medical advice

Caution is warranted due to potential for toxicity with long-term use, risk of thiamine deficiency, drug interactions, and contraindications in certain populations.

warning notices

May cause mild digestive upset or allergic reactions.
Risk of thiamine deficiency with long-term use due to thiaminase-like activity.
Contraindicated in pregnancy and for individuals with kidney disorders.
Interactions with diuretics and lithium can be clinically significant.
Avoid use if pregnant or breastfeeding.
Do not use in individuals with kidney disorders or impaired renal function.
Avoid with lithium or diuretic medications due to risk of altered electrolyte balance.
Do not use long-term due to risk of thiamine (vitamin B1) depletion.
Monitor for allergic reactions; discontinue use if sensitivity occurs.
Avoid if receiving treatment for alcohol or nicotine dependence.

Known interactions with medications

Diuretics
Lithium

Contraindications / special precautions

Pregnancy
Kidney disorders
Lithium therapy
Long-term use without thiamine monitoring

interactions

Important interactions between active ingredient ↔ supplement / medication / food

Horsetail may interact with certain medications and pose risks if combined with other diuretics or lithium, and may contribute to nutrient depletion with long-term use.