Equisetum arvense
Equisetum arvense
Equisetum arvense, commonly known as horsetail, is a traditional plant used in various herbal practices. While its specific uses are not well-documented in traditional medicine, it has been explored for its potential health benefits. Scientific studies have shown that different extracts of Equisetum arvense exhibit varying levels of antioxidant and enzyme inhibition activities, with acetone and ethanol extracts performing particularly well. A clinical trial found a significant reduction in pain intensity among patients with chronic pain after using a supplement combining PEA (pyrroloquinoline quinone) and Equisetum arvense for eight weeks. Additionally, virtual screening identified luteolin-5-O-glucoside from the plant as a potential lead scaffold for targeting VCX2 in hepatocellular carcinoma. In agricultural settings, studies have shown that plasma-treated plant-based biostimulants containing Equisetum arvense enhanced soybean growth and defense responses compared to untreated biostimulants. Safety concerns are minimal, with no major issues recorded; however, the evidence base is still limited. There are currently no reported drug interactions associated with Equisetum arvense.
- Best evidence
- B
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- The study found that different extracts of Equisetum arvense showed varying levels of antioxidant and enzyme inhibition activities, with acetone and ethanol extracts performing particularly well.
- This study found a significant reduction in pain intensity among patients with chronic pain after using a supplement combining PEA and Equisetum arvense for eight weeks.
- Virtual screening identified luteolin-5-O-glucoside from Equisetum arvense as a potential lead scaffold for targeting VCX2 in hepatocellular carcinoma.
- The study found that plasma-treated plant-based biostimulants enhanced soybean growth and defense responses compared to untreated biostimulants.
- The study found that metronidazole induced testicular toxicity in rats, but treatments with olive leaf and horsetail extracts mitigated some of the adverse effects.
Frequently asked questions
What is Equisetum arvense?
Equisetum arvense (Equisetum arvense) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about Equisetum arvense?
5 sourced findings are recorded for Equisetum arvense; the strongest carries evidence grade B. For example: The study found that different extracts of Equisetum arvense showed varying levels of antioxidant and enzyme inhibition activities, with acetone and ethanol extracts performing particularly well.
How strong is the evidence for Equisetum arvense?
The strongest finding for Equisetum arvense carries evidence grade B — moderate evidence. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Equisetum arvense safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Equisetum arvense in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Equisetum arvense interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Equisetum arvense in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Equisetum arvense?
Equisetum arvense is also known as: Хвощ полевой, Prêle des champs.
Is Equisetum arvense a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 Evaluation of the Clinical Efficacy of a Novel Palmitoylethanolamide-Equisetum arvense Supplement for the Management of Chronic Pain: Findings from a Prospective Clinical Trial. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Protective Effects of Olea europaea L. Leaves and Equisetum arvense L. Extracts Against Testicular Toxicity Induced by Metronidazole Through Reducing Oxidative Stress and Regulating NBN, INSL-3, STAR, HSD-3β, and CYP11A1 Signaling Pathways. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Plasma activation of plant-based biostimulants enhances growth and defense responses in soybean (Glycine max (L.)). literature abstract metadata
- T2 Experimental and theoretical exploration of biological activities of different extracts of Equisetum arvense: Enzyme inhibition, DFT, molecular docking and molecular dynamics analyses. literature abstract metadata
- T2 An integrative omics-guided druggability analysis of VCX2 in hepatocellular carcinoma using Peruvian natural products. literature abstract metadata