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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].
General Uses: The stems can be used for scouring and polishing metal and as a fine sandpaper[4]. The stems are first bleached by repeated wetting and drying in the sun[74]. They can also be used as a polish for wooden floors and furniture[46, 178].
The infused stem is an effective fungicide against mildew, mint rust and blackspot on roses[14]. It also makes a good liquid feed[54]. Used as a hair rinse it can eliminate fleas, lice and mites[213].
A light pink dye is obtained from the stem[99].
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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