horsetail extract (Equisetum arvense)(shave grass) is stimulating, astringent, soothing, healing, and softening. Horsetail is also described as able to increase the skin’s defense mechanism, regulate the skin because of the plant’s rich mineral content, and even strengthen connective tissue because of the presence of silicic acid. Some product manufacturers state that when mixed with lady’s mantle and eyebright extracts, horsetail extract works to prevent and counteract wrinkles in the eye area. This is an extract of the sterile caules of Equisetum arvense, a fern plant whose sprouts have high silicic acid content as well as flavone glycosides and saponin. Amino acids such as citruline, valine, asparaginic acid, lucine, and serine have also been detected as constituents of this extract. The recommended usage level is 1 to 10 percent of a formulation’s total composition. It can be benefi cial in making both anti-aging and acne products.
