Horsetail (Equisetum arvense L.) has been used since ancient Rome and Greece for its healing properties. Today, it’s gaining attention in hair care for one big reason — it’s the richest plant source of silicon, a mineral essential for strong, shiny, resilient hair.

Only Equisetum arvense is safe for cosmetics. Other species, like E. palustre, contain toxic alkaloids.

Fun fact: despite its name, horsetail is toxic to horses.

Evidence-based benefits of horsetail for hair

Silicon for strength

Horsetail contains around 10% silicon [1], absorbed directly from the soil.

Do not confuse silicon with silicone.

Silicon is the second most abundant naturally occurring element in the earth’s crust, while silicone is a synthetic substance.

Silicon stimulates collagen production [2], which supports the hair’s structure and reduces breakage.

A study in Anais Brasileiros de Dermatologia found that higher silicon levels in hair fibres correlate with less hair loss and more shine.

A placebo-controlled, single-blind clinical study found E. arvense extracts improved hair strength and reduced breakage compared to placebo.

These findings are evidence for horsetail's ability to strengthen existing hair and healthy growth.

Nourishing minerals

Horsetail is also rich in minerals like potassium, selenium, manganese, calcium, magnesium, copper and zinc [3], essential for healthy hair growth.

Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties

Horsetail is rich in saponins, gentle cleansers that support the elasticity of the hair, and flavonoids [4], which fight oxidative stress, protect follicles, and reduce inflammation in the scalp, creating a healthier environment for hair growth [5].

Clinical studies show horsetail's anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, essential for healthy hair growth [6]. Chronic scalp inflammation disrupts the hair growth cycle, leading to premature hair loss and poor hair quality.

Supports hair growth

• Blocks DHT: Research in the Nutrients journal shows that horsetail may reduce hair loss by blocking an enzyme that turns testosterone into DHT, a hormone linked to thinning hair. Although not as strong as prescription drugs, horsetail is a natural option with fewer side effects.
• Boosts blood flow: Better scalp circulation [7] means more nutrients and oxygen for follicles, which may activate dormant hair and increase density.

Specific Hair Benefits: What Horsetail Can Do for You

• Strengthens weak, brittle hair: High silica supports keratin formation [8], the primary protein that makes up hair strands, making hair stronger and more resistant to breakage and splitting.
• Noticeable increase in hair shine and vitality: Its mineral-rich composition smooths the hair cuticle, the outermost layer of the hair shaft, making hair more reflective and glossier [9]. Silicon helps maintain moisture balance in the hair shaft, preventing dryness that leads to dull, lifeless hair. The herb's antioxidant compounds protect the hair cuticle from environmental damage that can cause roughness and reduce shine.
• Balances the scalp: Horsetail’s astringent action regulates sebum on oily scalps, while its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties help soothe dandruff, eczema and psoriasis. For very dry scalps, frequent use may worsen dryness. That is why YOGHHAIR’s Fortifying Solid Shampoo combines horsetail with moisturising ingredients.

Ready for stronger, healthier hair?

Our YOGHHAIR® Fortifying Solid Shampoo pairs horsetail with rosemary oil — another proven hair growth stimulant — for a synergistic boost to hair strength, shine and vitality.

Shop YOGHHAIR Fortifying Horsetail & Rosemary Solid Shampoo and feel the difference science-backed natural ingredients make.