Horsetail 4:1 P.E.

Horsetail 4:1 P.E. refers to a concentrated extract of the horsetail plant, Equisetum arvense. This “4:1” signifies that it’s four times as potent as the basic horsetail extract, meaning that the active components are concentrated, providing more potential benefits per serving. This plant, native to the Northern Hemisphere, is known for its high silica content and its usage in traditional medicine.

Benefits of Horsetail 4:1 P.E.

1. Bone Health: Due to its high silica content, horsetail is believed to promote bone health. It could support the production of collagen, a protein that contributes to bone strength.
2. Antioxidant Properties: Horsetail contains antioxidants which help protect against damage from free radicals, reducing oxidative stress in the body.
3. Urinary Tract Health: Traditional uses of horsetail include promoting urinary tract health and functioning due to its natural diuretic properties.
4. Skin and Hair Health: The silica in horsetail might improve the strength and shine of hair, and may also promote skin elasticity, reducing the appearance of wrinkles.

In one study, 122 Italian women took horsetail dry extract or Osteosil calcium 270 mg twice daily (a horsetail/calcium combination used in Italy for osteoporosis). The study found that the horsetail extract was as effective as the calcium supplement in increasing bone density.

The common dosage of Horsetail 4:1 P.E. is 300 mg dried extract or 2 to 12 ml alcohol extracts. However, an appropriate dose has yet to be determined by current scientific evidence.

Though generally considered safe when used properly, horsetail can cause some side effects:

1. Digestive issues: Some people might experience stomach upset, diarrhea or heartburn.
2. Electrolyte Imbalance: Due to its diuretic properties, horsetail can potentially lead to low levels of potassium in the body if taken in large amounts.
3. Thiamine Deficiency: There are reports that horsetail could interfere with the way the body metabolizes thiamine, leading to deficiency if taken in excess.
4. Allergic Reactions: As with many plants, some people might be allergic to horsetail. It’s important to stop usage and consult a doctor if you experience symptoms like rash, itching, or swelling after taking horsetail extract.

Sources:

• https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-843/horsetail
• https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/horsetail
• https://www.nutracapusa.com/horsetail-41-p-e/
• https://www.rxlist.com/horsetail/supplements.htm
• https://www.lybrate.com/topic/benefits-of-horsetail-and-its-side-effects
• https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/herb/horsetail