Common Scouring Rush
Equisetum hyemale
Equisetum hyemale, commonly known as horsetail, is a traditional plant with origins in various herbal practices. While its use has not been extensively documented in specific traditions, it has shown potential in modern scientific research. Studies have demonstrated that Equisetum hyemale can effectively remove nutrients from water bodies and promote bone formation when used in combination with HyStem®-HP. However, the cytotoxicity of its extracts against certain cancer cell lines is moderate, indicating a need for further investigation. No significant safety concerns or drug interactions have been reported to date.
- Best evidence
- D
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- The study provides the first spectral reflectance dataset for Equisetum hyemale in South Africa, crucial for early detection.
- Equisetum hyemale showed high nutrient removal efficiency in floating treatment wetlands under most conditions but exhibited reduced phosphate removal in arsenic presence.
- The extracts from Equisetum hyemale showed moderate cytotoxicity against certain cancer cell lines and high antioxidant activity.
- Equisetum hyemale, when combined with HyStem®-HP, promoted increased bone formation at 7 days compared to HyStem®-HP alone in maxillary defect models.
Frequently asked questions
What is Common Scouring Rush?
Common Scouring Rush (Equisetum hyemale) 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 Common Scouring Rush?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Common Scouring Rush; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: The study provides the first spectral reflectance dataset for Equisetum hyemale in South Africa, crucial for early detection.
How strong is the evidence for Common Scouring Rush?
The strongest finding for Common Scouring Rush carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Common Scouring Rush safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Common Scouring Rush in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Common Scouring Rush interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Common Scouring Rush in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Common Scouring Rush?
Common Scouring Rush is also known as: Хвощ зимующий, Prele d'hiver.
Is Common Scouring Rush 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 Impact of abiotic stressors on nutrient removal and rhizomicrobiome composition in floating treatment wetland with Equisetum hyemale. literature abstract metadata
- T2 First spectral reflectance dataset of a highly invasive and aggressive alien plant species, Equisetum hyemale (snakegrass), in South Africa: Towards early detection and effective eradication. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Equisetum hyemale enhances local bone regeneration in murine maxillary defects: an in vivo study. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Equisetum hyemale L. Extracts: Phytochemistry, Biological Performance, ADMET Profiling, and Toxicity Predictions. literature abstract metadata