Equisetum palustre
Marsh horsetail
(1 Page of 5)
 
The Equisetum palustre plant species is found in Britain. It is a member of the Equisetaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Marsh horsetail.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses
 
Latin Name:  Equisetum palustre
Common Name:  Marsh horsetail
Family:  Equisetaceae
Author:  L.
 
Known Hazards:  Large quantities of the plant can be toxic. This is because it contains the enzyme thiaminase[172], a substance that can rob the body of the vitamin B complex[65]. In small quantities this enzyme will do no harm to people eating an adequate diet that is rich in vitamin B, though large quantities can cause severe health problems. The enzyme is destroyed by heat or thorough drying, so cooking the plant will remove the thiaminase[172]. The plant also contains equisetic acid - see the notes on medicinal uses for more information[213].
 
Mature Height:  0.6   Mature Width:  
 
Habitat:  Bogs, fens, marshes and wet heaths, woods and meadows throughout Britain, ascending to 900 metres[257].

For further Equisetum palustre gardening information
click on one of the blue links below
 
Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses
 

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
View their bibliography