Uses of Horsetail
BOILS AND CARBUNCLES
The antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activity of Horsetail may help with the inflammation and infection caused by Boils and Carbuncles. Its salve, compress and poultice is used to draw out the pus from boils, carbuncles and sores. To make a compress simply soak crushed dried Horsetail herb into lukewarm water for 15 minutes. Wrap the soaked Horsetail herb in a small piece of cheese cloth and apply it onto the carbuncle or boil. The use of hot and cold compresses of this Horsetail poultice 2 to 3 times daily may help reduce the inflammation and draw out the pus. To alternate between the hot and cold compress, simply make two poultices and dip one in small amount of warm water and the other in cold water before applying. Apply each compress for about 5 minutes each, at least 3 times in one session. To reduce the inflammation and pain, a paste made by Horsetail leaves or its extract can be applied onto the affected area. To make the horsetail paste, add a small amount of water to half a teaspoon of Horsetail extract powder or soak crushed horsetail leaves into warm water. Apply this paste after hot/cold compresses to speed up the healing process.