Shavegrass Herb (Horsetail)

It is often commonly referred to as horsetail, bottle brush, equisetum or scouring rush. Horsetail is an ancient plant with a long history of recorded use and fossil evidence to suggest it existed millions of years ago.

The succulent stems of the plant, which look a bit like horse tails, are the richest source of natural silica known. This feature, combined with the abrasive texture of dried stems from the crystallization of silicon, gave rise to the plants historical use to polish pewter and the nickname Scouring Rush.

Shavegrass (commonly known as Horsetail) traditionally has been used in Europe as a diuretic. It contains flavonoids, alkaloids, phenols, phytosteroids, saponins, and tannins. It has an impressive history in herbal healing, well known to Europeans and Native Americans alike. The hollow stems of the plant are rich in silica, which is used in the food and beverage industries as an anti-foaming agent and clarifier. Silica is also essential for healthy skin, hair and nails. In fact, this naturally occurring element is involved in the synthesis of collagen. In addition to taking shavegrass as a dietary supplement, infusions and extracts are used to produce various hair and skin care products.

Warning: Shavegrass herb should not be used if you have renal or cardiac dysfunction.

Appearance, aroma and taste profile: Grassy with a fresh scent. Mild and grass-like. Combine with lemongrass, gingerroot or other herbs to enhance flavor.

Botanical Name: Equisetum arvense

Common Names: Horsetail, Scouring rush, equisetum, bottle brush, Shave-grass, Bottle-brush, Paddock-pipes, Dutch Rushes, Pewterwort. Corncob Plant, Puzzlegrass