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Equisetum sylvaticum Wood horsetail (1 Page of 5) The Equisetum sylvaticum plant species is found in Britain. It is a member of the Equisetaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Wood horsetail. Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses Medicinal | Edible Uses Latin Name: Equisetum sylvaticum Common Name: Wood 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: Damp woods on acid soils, moors etc[17].
Medicinal Information: Horsetails have an unusual chemistry compared to most other plants[238]. They are rich in silica, contain several alkaloids (including nicotine) and various minerals[238]. The plant is astringent, diuretic and styptic[4]. The barren stems are used, they are most active when fresh but can also be dried and sometimes the ashes of the pant are used[4]. The plant is a useful diuretic when taken internally and is used in the treatment of kidney and bladder problems, internal bleeding[4, 257]. A decoction applied externally will stop the bleeding of wounds and promote healing[4, 257].
For further Equisetum sylvaticum 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

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