Evidence supporting the use of: Horsetail
For the health condition: Sprains

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Horsetail (Equisetum arvense) has a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine, particularly in Europe and Asia. It has been employed for a variety of ailments, including fractures, wounds, and sprains. The rationale for its use in sprains is primarily related to its reported astringent and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as its high silica content, which is thought to promote connective tissue repair and healing. Historical texts and folk medicine practices mention horsetail poultices or washes being applied to bruises and sprains to reduce swelling and speed recovery. However, when evaluating the scientific literature, there is very limited direct evidence supporting horsetail’s effectiveness specifically for sprains. While some in vitro and animal studies suggest horsetail extracts may have anti-inflammatory or wound-healing effects, clinical trials in humans for sprain treatment are lacking. Thus, while horsetail’s use for sprains is grounded in traditional herbalism, scientific validation is minimal, and the evidence is weak. People considering its use should consult a healthcare provider, especially since oral consumption of horsetail can have side effects and interact with certain medications.

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