HORSETAIL EXTRACT (LEAF AND STEM) 10:1

Horsetail (Equisetum arvense) is a unique perennial herb with an extensive history of traditional use in various cultures, tracing back to ancient Roman and Greek practices, where it was valued for its distinctive phytochemical composition. This robust plant thrives in damp, marshy environments across temperate zones of the Northern Hemisphere. Our 10:1 extract meticulously concentrates the beneficial compounds found in the leaf and stem, delivering a potent and bioavailable form of this botanical. Its characteristic segmented appearance, often likened to a horse's tail, belies its rich internal matrix. The most prominent feature of Horsetail is its exceptional natural abundance of silica, a crucial trace mineral essential for numerous physiological processes. Unlike many other plant sources, Horsetail stores silica in a highly absorbable form, predominantly as orthosilicic acid, making it an invaluable dietary source for this vital element. The extraction process is precisely controlled to maximize the yield and preserve the integrity of these key constituents, ensuring a consistent, high-quality ingredient for diverse supplement formulations.

The profound health benefits associated with Horsetail extract are primarily attributed to its complex array of bioactive compounds, notably silica, alongside a rich spectrum of flavonoids and phenolic acids. Silica, present as orthosilicic acid, is a fundamental precursor for the biosynthesis of collagen and elastin, which are the foundational proteins comprising connective tissues throughout the human body. Scientific research, including studies published in the *Journal of Nutrition, Health & Aging*, underscores silica's pivotal role in supporting bone mineralization and maintaining optimal bone mineral density, thereby suggesting its significant potential in promoting skeletal health. Beyond its structural contributions, silica is instrumental in enhancing the strength, elasticity, and overall integrity of skin, hair, and nails by facilitating crucial collagen cross-linking processes. Furthermore, Horsetail is a natural reservoir of potent flavonoids such as quercetin and kaempferol, which exhibit significant antioxidant activity. These antioxidants effectively scavenge free radicals, mitigating oxidative stress and safeguarding cellular integrity. The synergistic actions of these compounds provide comprehensive support for connective tissue health, dermatological wellness, and robust cellular protection.

Horsetail extract (10:1) serves as a highly versatile ingredient, frequently incorporated into supplement formulations specifically designed to target bone health, and the health and appearance of skin, hair, and nails. Its inherently high silica content makes it an ideal component for 'beauty-from-within' supplements, where it is often synergistically combined with ingredients like biotin, marine collagen peptides, and hyaluronic acid to amplify dermatological benefits. When sourcing Horsetail extract, critical quality considerations include verifying the botanical origin to ensure it is free from heavy metals and environmental contaminants, as the plant can readily accumulate these from its growth environment. Reputable suppliers typically provide extracts standardized for their silica content, offering assurance of consistent potency and efficacy. Clinical evidence, such as a placebo-controlled study published in the *Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology*, has demonstrated that oral supplementation with silica derived from Horsetail significantly improved hair tensile strength and reduced hair fragility. Further scientific inquiry supports its traditional use as a diuretic, attributing this effect to its flavonoid content which can influence renal function, although this application requires careful consideration in specific product formulations. The 10:1 concentration ensures a potent dosage, allowing for effective results even with smaller serving sizes in final products.