High Cholesterol and Horsetail

Silica in horsetail acts on lipid metabolism, resulting in an anti-atheromatous action -- it helps protect against fatty deposits in arteries. In Europe, horsetail has been used for years for atherosclerosis.

One that consumes a high cholesterol (fatty) diet could develop dermatitis (inflammatory skin conditions). Raw horsetail contains thiaminase, an enzyme that breaks down thiamine, a B vitamin. One should therefore supplement their diet with thiamine to eliminate this risk.

Also, alcohol, high temperatures and alkalinity all destroy this enzyme. Therefore, boiled tinctures and teas and most preparations are free of this enzyme.