Benefits of the horsetail plant for hair and how to apply it well

Daily care of our hair is important to keep it in good condition and to keep it looking splendid. To do this, we can use interesting formulas such as horsetail, which is just as beneficial for hair as it is for other parts of our body. For example, the skin.

Here we explain what horsetail is, what its properties are and why it is good for our hair. In addition, we provide you with several ways to apply it. You can choose the one that is most comfortable for you.

What is horsetail

Native to the Americas, it is a shrub-like medicinal plant of which there are up to 24 different species. Some of them have particular properties. Numerous short branches grow from its elongated stems, which characterise it.

As a curiosity, we note that it is one of the oldest plants in the world, with millions of years of existence. Using horsetail extracts on the hair has several benefits, which we review below. Its diuretic and depurative properties are also noteworthy. 

Its properties

The relevance of this vegetable lies, above all, in the high percentage of trace elements it contains:

• Organic silicon. This is one of the components of our hair and one of the most important minerals. Our body needs it for cell regeneration and tissue repair.

• Potassium. Another essential mineral for hair hydration, as it retains water. Remember that hair is made up of 70% of this liquid.

• Calcium. Helps to modify the pH and moisturises the hair. In addition, it promotes the correct absorption of other small nutrients for the scalp. Those that contribute to the formation of proteins that stimulate strong and healthy hair growth.

• Magnesium. It is also beneficial for our hair to grow well and to control oil production in the scalp. By improving the blood circulation in our head, it also prevents hair ageing.

• Sodium. For natural exfoliation is key, as it removes dead cells and the remains of hair products. This gives you a clean, dandruff-free mane.

On the other hand, the plant has tannins, flavonoids and saponides, powerful antioxidants that combat the attacks of so-called free radicals. These are molecules that steal oxygen, which accelerates ageing. They are generated by stress, pollution, poor diet and so on.

What does the horsetail do to the hair?

Thanks to all these properties of horsetail on the hair, it strengthens it and improves its hydration, texture and shine. It also slows hair loss in times of stress, in seasons such as autumn or when certain nutrients are lacking. It also helps to prevent grey hair.

And as we have already mentioned above, it serves to fight against damage caused by radicals or external agents. By slowing down their activity, it protects hair from breakage, for example. It also promotes the synthesis of collagen and calcium, which are important for the good appearance of our hair.

How to use the horsetail to grow hair?

There are several ways to reap the benefits of horsetail on the hair. One is by drinking it in a tea, an easy and tasty method. All you need is a tea bag of this plant or about 10 grams of its stems.

If you choose the second option, heat about 250 millilitres of water and add the horsetail. Let the decoction brew for three to four minutes. After a 10-minute rest, you can drink.

Another way to apply it is directly to your hair, although you need more of the plant: 30 grams. Mix it in about 300 millilitres of hot water, let it sit for 15 minutes and start wetting your dry hair. After waiting 20 minutes for this solution to take effect, you should wash it out. You can repeat this twice a week.

A third and final formulation for use is in capsule form, the presentation format of some supplements. As they also contain organic silicon, we especially recommend these products to maintain the health of your hair: G7 Beauty (with selenium and vitamin E, in addition) or G7 Siliplant, which contains horsetail.

All in all, this is what horsetail does for your hair, so consider using it in your hair care routine. Always without abusing the consumption of this plant, you will see the results to show off beautiful hair and reduce hair loss.