Horsetails are a weird plant. They have not changed much since the time of dinosaurs and they can be poisonous. Some kids died from using them like straws by hollowing out the stems. You need to be very careful when using herbs. Horsetails are most commonly used for hair tonics.
Horsetails are known to be high in silica, which is why they are often used in hair products. People have used them in the past as scrubbers to clean pots and pans, but I do not recommend that since they can be poisonous if not processed correctly and at the right time of the year.
Horsetail Soapwort Shampoo:
- 7 T. snipped fresh horsetail stems
- 7 T. grated dried soapwort root
- 1 gallon water
Soak grated soapwort root in water overnight, then drain. Boil water, add the horsetails and grated soapwort root that sat in it overnight, and boil for 15 minutes. Take off of heat, and let sit for one hour. Strain, bottle and refrigerate. Use 1 cup of shampoo to wash hair.
Abbreviations: (t. = teaspoon, T. = Tablespoon, c. = cup)
DISCLAIMER: Do not eat or drink tea from any plant you have not fully studied and identified properly. Please consult with your local alternative herbal care specialist before using herbs you are not familiar with.
