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Equisetum arvense
These are fertile stems, which are non-photosynthetic. Green sterile stems (not in this photo) start to grow after the fertile stems have wilted. Fertile stems the strobilus at the top, that consists of the axis (inside) and 15-20 horizontal circles of about 20 sporangiophores. Lower down the stem, two sheaths of merged microphyls. The stem has lengthwise many strong ridges.
Open fields, arable land, waste places, hedgerows and roadsides, usually on moist soils. Arctic and temperate regions of Europe, north America and Asia.
THE FERTILE STEMS: The buds are eaten as a vegetable in Japan and Korea in spring time. THE STERILE STEMS: Ancient writers say that horsetail can function as a diuretic, helps heal wounds and coughs. Medieval Herbal books recommend it to prevent blood vomitting. As tea blends it is used for rheumatism, chronic cough, as a diuretic and as a bath for skin problems. It acts diuretically because of the flavones and a large amount of potassium. Tea also promotes the secretion of urine, and is highly effective in kidney and bladder. In folk medicine it was used to treat tuberculosis. Horsetail is also important for bronchial problems and rheumatism and podagri. It can be also used for wounds that heal poorly, and skin ulcers, open legs, and bedsores (decubitus), poor blood circulation as a result of diabetes, skin diseases, varicose veins, chilblains. The combination of tea and baths help the weak connective tissue, with a weakened stomach and intestines, in low menstruation and increase glands, especially tonsil. BE CAREFULL, because all other Equisetum species are toxic.
Spotted on Apr 21, 2013
Submitted on Apr 21, 2013
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