Diuretic, astringent, stopping bleeding, tonic

Tincture or decoction for internal use, poultice for external use

Horsetail is primarily used for its bone and connective tissue healing properties. This is due to its high level of silicon, which provides a foundation for regeneration of connective tissue.

Horsetail can also be used for urinary tract problems, especially those that involve bleeding or excess tissue growth.

In older animals, horsetail may help prevent bone degeneration, skin and coat disorders, and senility in older animals. See your veterinarian for instructions on use for this purpose.

For internal use, prepared a decoction or tincture. To make a decoction, take a handful of dried herb and place it in a nonmetallic vessel, add 1/2 teaspoon of sugar and enough water to barely cover the herb. Simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes or until the water has turned dark green. Strain the mixture and allow to cool. Add the decoction to the pet’s food, 1 tablespoon per 20 pounds of animal’s body weight daily, 5 days a week. Tincture can be used at a dose of 1/4 teaspoon per 20 pounds of body weight.

• Do not use horsetail in cases of hypertension or cardiac disease.
• Horsetail may change the flavour of milk during lactation.
• Do not use if the animal has a history of silicate stones.
• Do not gather this plant from areas downstream of farming activities that may use inorganic nitrates.

Wulff-Tilford, Mary, and Gregory L. Tilford. All You Ever Wanted to Know About Herbs for Pets. Irvine, CA: BowTie, 1999. Print.

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