Herbs and bone health: Is horsetail an effective natural remedy for osteoporosis?

10/20/2019 / By Darnel Fernandez

The horsetail plant from the genus Equisetum got its name due to its slender and elongated structure, which is similar to a horse’s tail. This plant is unique because it is one of the few vascular plant species that reproduce through spores rather than seeds. Horsetail has been used as a medicinal herb since the time of the Ancient Greeks and Roman. It was used to treat various of health issues like tuberculosis, kidney problems, and bleeding. But did you know that horsetail also contains a mineral that can help with osteoporosis?

No horsing around when it comes to bone health

Osteoporosis is a bone disease where bone structure weakens because the body loses too much bone or makes too little bone. Bones affected by this disease are less dense than normal bones, which means they’re much weaker and more prone to breaking. But the good news is, horsetail contains a mineral called silicon, which helps strengthen bones. (Related: Horsetail herb can potentially counter the damaging effects of osteoporosis.)

Research suggests that silicon can promote bone and connective tissue health in many ways. For one, silicon helps bones absorb minerals like calcium, which is needed for the growth and maintenance of strong bones. Silicon also stabilizes collagen, a protein that glues bone crystals together. In addition, silicon stimulates the production of collagen inside the body and activates enzymes responsible for boosting skin function and elasticity.

In a study published in Minerva Ortopedica e Traumatologica, Italian researchers evaluated the effects of silicon consumption on individuals with menopause and osteoporosis. They compared the results of treatment with horsetail extract alone and treatment with a combination of horsetail and calcium. The researchers found that the combination of horsetail and calcium increased the bone density of menopausal women after 80 days of treatment.

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Besides improving bone density, horsetail also assists in the formation of new bones. It also helps fortify cartilage and connective tissue and alleviates rheumatoid arthritis symptoms, thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties. Because of these beneficial activities, horsetail is often recommended to people with bone-related conditions.

The other benefits of horsetail

Boosting bone health isn’t the only thing horsetail is capable of. Listed below are some of the amazing health benefits horsetail provides:

Helps reverse diabetes. Horsetail has been found to regulate blood sugar levels. According to a study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology, horsetail supplements and tea can help normalize insulin levels in the body due to its ability to lower blood sugar. However, consumption of horsetail products should be limited to no more than two months to avoid undesirable long-term effects.
Prevents cancer. Studies have shown that horsetail is a rich source of antioxidants. These antioxidants can neutralize free radicals, which can damage cells. The National Cancer Institute reports that increased levels of antioxidants can prevent free radical damage associated with cancer development.
Improves cognitive function. Horsetail is rich in antioxidants and vitamin K, which increases the levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the brain. BDNF is an important protein that helps stimulate the growth and development of neurons.
Treats respiratory issues. Horsetail tea is a fantastic remedy for those suffering from congestion or colds. The tea acts as an expectorant that clears out mucus and phlegm. Horsetail’s anti-inflammatory properties can also help relieve cough.
Promotes kidney and liver health. Horsetail has a diuretic effect that can help your body get rid of excess salt and fluids. Urination is also a natural way of eliminating toxins, which is important for maintaining the health of your kidneys and liver.

Horsetail is a supplement that improves bone health and provides a myriad of other health benefits. However, horsetail may contain compounds that could interfere with your current medications, so consult with your health care provider before using it to ensure your safety.

For more info about similar herbal medicines, visit Remedies.news.

Sources include:

HorsetailBenefits.com

OrganicFacts.net

LiebertPub.com

Cancer.gov