Shavegrass, also known as horsetail, is a well-known fern that has been used for its herbal benefits since ancient Greek and Roman times. It’s said to offer various health advantages, particularly for improving skin, hair, and bone health. You can find shavegrass growing naturally in Northern Europe and America, as well as in other damp, temperate areas. The plant has a tall, green stem with dense branches that develop from spring to fall, reaching up to three feet high.
Many people turn to shavegrass and its natural remedies as an alternative to synthetic medicines. Shavegrass tea is reputed to treat skin issues like acne and eczema, boost hair growth, strengthen bones, and support proper kidney function. It may also help with bladder infections and high blood pressure due to its beneficial compounds, primarily antioxidants and silica.
Our skin’s condition reflects our overall health, as it can show signs of a poor diet or hormonal imbalance through changes in appearance. Antioxidants, naturally occurring in plants, protect against cellular damage and encourage healthy aging. They also help repair DNA, combat cancer cells, reduce flu symptoms in conjunction with zinc, enhance skin health, regulate blood sugar levels, and prevent high blood pressure and headaches. Shavegrass tea, rich in these antioxidants, can serve to neutralize harmful free radicals in our bodies.
Silica, found abundantly in shavegrass, is a crucial mineral for our connective tissue and various body parts, including skin, hair, and bones. Despite dietary habits, many people lack sufficient silica, possibly due to stress or poor nutrient absorption. Adding shavegrass supplements to your routine can fortify hair, nails, bones, tendons, and joints without requiring drastic lifestyle changes.
If you’re struggling with skin ailments like eczema and psoriasis, you can prepare a shavegrass solution by boiling two teaspoons of the herb in eight ounces of water until it reduces to one ounce, then apply it topically. This can be done three times a day.
Interestingly, shavegrass contains salicylate, enhancing its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects. It’s often compared to salicylic acid, commonly used in treating acne, for its ability to reduce inflammation and promote collagen synthesis. The inclusion of shavegrass in skincare products can help those with acne-prone skin, thanks to its additional components like vitamin C, retinoids, glycolic acid, and hyaluronic acid.
With its high silica content, shavegrass can support bone health and potentially prevent osteoporosis by enhancing collagen and elastin production, vital for skin elasticity and smoothness. For hair care, shavegrass extract may help encourage hair growth and reduce scalp irritation through its silica-enriched compounds.
If you suffer from constipation or irregular bowel movements, shavegrass can support your digestive system by increasing fiber intake and reducing water retention due to its diuretic properties. It can also aid in wound healing by preventing bacterial infections with its antiseptic traits.
Finally, while shavegrass offers numerous benefits, it’s important to be mindful of potential side effects. Consuming too much can lead to diarrhea because of its high oxalate concentration, which may cause kidney stones. It’s advisable to drink plenty of water after taking shavegrass tea or supplements to flush out any toxins.
For a relaxing experience, you can also enjoy shavegrass by inhaling its vapors with hot water, which many find to be calming when mixed with other herbs like lavender and rosemary.
