Catherine Love~ Ramblings from my Heart and Home

Helpful Herbs ~ Horsetail

I've heard that Horsetail Tea is good for the hair.  The herb Horsetail or Equisetum is a natural source of silicon and good for hair, skin,and nails, says the box of tea in my cabinet.  According to the tea maker Seelect, Horsetail is commonly called "nature's beauty aid". 

It doesn't taste bad, and my hair can certainly use all the help it can get, so it's worth a try! 

It seems that Horsetail tea is also good for keeping cut flowers fresh as it contains minerals for them to absorb. 

Here's a recipe for Horsetail Tea for the garden : 

Chop several handfuls of Horsetail finely and add to 2 pints of water.  Bring to a boil and simmer for 2 to 3 hours.   Cool, strain and use as a spray for mildew and black spot on roses. 

Also, this mineral-rich herb makes a good addition to the compost pile. And as I 've read that it is an invasive plant, if you have it growing you'll probably have lots to compost.   It is also said to be good to use as a fertilizer, tonic and general cure all in the garden. 

One last tip: Use Horsetail stems in place of scouring pads. 

These recipes and tips came from my newest favorite garden book: Garden Folklore that Works by Charlie Ryrie . 

Who knew this water-loving plant was so useful.  I just thought it was pretty growing near the ponds and streams !