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What is Horsetail Tea?

Allison Boelcke
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Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 12,628
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Horsetail, also commonly referred to as bottlebrush or scouring brush, is a plant that grows primarily in wet regions. Its name originated from its history of the plant being attached to horse’s tails to help keep flies away. Herbalists claim the plant has a variety of medicinal uses. For easier consumption, the plant is boiled with water to make horsetail tea. Dried horsetail is generally available commercially and sold loosely or packed in teabags so it can be prepared at home.

One of the most traditional uses for horsetail tea has been as a diuretic. A diuretic refers to a substance that causes more urination than normal. Increased urination may be promoted as a possible treatment for kidney diseases, heart failure, liver disease, and high blood pressure. The process may help rid the body of excessive fats, salt, and other toxins. Other historical uses include consuming the tea as a sedative or as a possible aid to help prevent seizures and convulsions.

Supporters of horsetail tea for medicinal purposes also claim it has even more health benefits. The plant contains silica, a naturally occurring chemical compound that is thought to help strengthen internal organs, bones, and joints. The tea is often marketed as a treatment for fractured or weakened bones, hair loss, brittle or peeling fingernails, and swelling. Although there is no conclusive proof, some manufacturers of the tea promote it as helping naturally destroy tumors and parasites, and fight tuberculosis.

If horsetail tea is purchased already packaged into teabags, it is prepared into tea simply by soaking it in hot water, a process known as steeping. The loose version of the tea will generally require a tea infuser, a small device with holes in it that holds the tea leaves, while allowing them to still flavor the water. Once the teabag or infuser is inserted into hot water, it is usually left for about five minutes to flavor the water. It is then recommended to then be served immediately while still hot for the best results.

The exact dosage instructions for the tea can vary depending on the manufacturer who produces the commercial version or the herbalist who recommends it. Hot horsetail tea is generally recommended to be consumed between meals, approximately twice per day. When being used for a specific treatment, it is often suggested to be consumed regularly for at least two weeks to reap the maximum benefits.

There are no widely reported side effects that occur after drinking the tea, but the product is generally recommended for adults only. Since the effects of the tea have not been studied in children, it is not recommended that pregnant women or those who are breastfeeding consume it. Since the tea can cause increased urine output, it may be dangerous for those who have kidney disorders.

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Allison Boelcke
By Allison Boelcke
Allison Boelcke, a digital marketing manager and freelance writer, helps businesses create compelling content to connect with their target markets and drive results. With a degree in English, she combines her writing skills with marketing expertise to craft engaging content that gets noticed and leads to website traffic and conversions. Her ability to understand and connect with target audiences makes her a valuable asset to any content creation team.

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Discussion Comments
By burcinc — On Jun 23, 2014

I started drinking horsetail tea after a friend recommended it to me. I have very fragile, thin nails and fine hair. Horsetail tea makes them thicker and stronger. And I've noticed that my hair grows a bit faster and looks shinier. My nails do not split as much as they used to!

The flavor is not the best but I add some cinnamon or ginger and honey sometimes to improve the taste. I think I have grown more fond of the flavor since I first tried it. It's definitely worth it for the benefits.

By candyquilt — On Jun 22, 2014

@ddljohn-- I think the supplements just contain ground version of dry horsetail. So content wise, there is probably no difference between supplement and tea.

I personally prefer tea because I enjoy the herbal taste and scent of the tea. I also feel that the hot water increases its effectiveness and potency. Remember to keep the cup covered while it's steeping for the most benefits!

I drink horsetail tea for hearth health support and support for bone density. There is still time for my routine medical check up so I'll find out then whether it has made a difference.

By ddljohn — On Jun 21, 2014

So I'm assuming that horsetail tea and horsetail grass are the same? This plant is also available as a capsule supplement. Has anyone tried both? Which is better, the tea or the supplement?

Allison Boelcke
Allison Boelcke
Allison Boelcke, a digital marketing manager and freelance writer, helps businesses create compelling content to connect with their target markets and drive results. With a degree in English, she combines her writing skills with marketing expertise to craft engaging content that gets noticed and leads to website traffic and conversions. Her ability to understand and connect with target audiences makes her a valuable asset to any content creation team.
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