Field Horsetail

The Field Horsetail is a living fossil and one of the oldest plant species on our planet.

Name:

German: Ackerschachtelhalm, Zinnkraut

English: Field Horsetail

Latin: Equisetum arvense

Plant Group / Family:

Family: Equisetaceae

Subgroup: Horsetails

Distribution:

Native origin: Europe, North America, Asia

Current distribution: Found worldwide in temperate climates

Identification

Height: Up to 50 cm

Leaves: Scale-like leaves arranged in whorls around the stem

Flowers: No flowers, reproduces via spores

Fruit: No fruit, spore capsules located at the tips of the stems

Bark/Stem: Thin, green, segmented stems with a rough surface

Uses:

Medicinal:

  • Acts as a diuretic, used in the treatment of urinary tract infections
  • Promotes wound healing and reduces inflammation
  • Strengthens connective tissue, skin, and nails

Culinary: Young shoots can be eaten in small quantities, but caution is advised due to the plant’s chemical compounds.

Decorative: Suitable for natural garden designs.

Other:

  • Used in plant fortification due to its high silica content
  • Historically used to polish tinware

Toxicity:

Toxic Parts: All parts – contains thiaminase, which breaks down vitamin B1

Symptoms: Overconsumption can cause gastrointestinal discomfort. In horses and cattle, it can lead to poisoning

First Aid: In case of poisoning, seek immediate medical help

Look-alike Species

Similar Plants: Marsh Horsetail (Equisetum palustre), Giant Horsetail (Equisetum telmateia)

Differences:

Giant Horsetail (Equisetum telmateia): Larger with thicker stems

Marsh Horsetail (Equisetum palustre): Thicker, unbranched stems, grows in marshy, wet soils, and can be toxic with higher concentrations of alkaloids

Additional Information:

Care: Prefers moist soils; can become invasive in gardens

Growth Conditions: Thrives in moist, sandy or loamy soils with plenty of sunlight

Caution: Due to its invasive nature, use care when planting in gardens

Field Horsetail Tea

Ingredients:

  • 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried field horsetail
  • 250 ml hot water

Preparation:

  • Pour hot water over the dried horsetail
  • Let steep for 10-15 minutes
  • Strain and enjoy.

Use:
Drink up to three times daily to reduce inflammation, particularly helpful for urinary tract infections or joint inflammations

Ingredients:

  • 2 teaspoons of dried field horsetail
  • 500 ml hot water

 

Preparation:

  • Boil the water
  • Place the dried horsetail in a bowl and pour over the hot water
  • Allow the mixture to cool until lukewarm
  • Soak a clean cloth or sterile gauze in the infusion and wring out

 

Use:
Apply the soaked cloth to the affected area to help stop minor bleeding or treat inflamed or bleeding wounds.

Note: For large wounds or severe bleeding, always consult a doctor. Horsetail should not be taken in large quantities or over extended periods without medical advice due to possible side effects.

Ingredients:

  • 200 g fresh young field horsetail shoots (use only tender, young shoots)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 garlic clove, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sesame seeds, toasted
  • 1 teaspoon maple syrup (optional for a sweeter taste)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

 

Preparation:

  • Wash the horsetail shoots thoroughly and remove any tough parts, leaving only the tender tips.
  • Bring a pot of water to a boil and briefly blanch the horsetail (about 1-2 minutes), then immediately cool in ice water to preserve the green color. Drain well.
  • Heat the sesame oil in a pan.
  • Add the chopped garlic and ginger, sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Add the horsetail shoots and stir-fry for 3-5 minutes over medium heat.
  • Add soy sauce and, optionally, maple syrup. Stir well until the shoots are evenly coated.
  • Season with salt and pepper.
  • Serve on a plate and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds.

 

Serving suggestion:
This dish pairs well with rice or as part of an Asian meal, offering a slightly nutty and savory flavor

Note: Ensure that the horsetail comes from a safe source, as it can absorb heavy metals or pesticides from contaminated soils. Only use young shoots, as older parts can be too tough and fibrous for consumption.

Enjoy!

Ingredients:

  • Fresh stems of field horsetail (tin herb)

 

Preparation:

  • Rub the rough stems directly on the surface of the tin.
  • Use circular, even movements to remove tarnish and dirt.
  • Polish until the tin shines, then wipe the surface with a soft cloth to remove any plant residue.

Medical Disclaimer

The recipes and information provided are for informational purposes only and do not replace the advice of a doctor or medical professional. If you have any health concerns or uncertainties, please consult a physician.