Herb Pharm Horsetail
Brand: Herb Pharm · Form: LIQUID, SUPPLEMENT FORM [E0165]
Our assessment
The evidence shows that horsetail supplements, such as Herb Pharm Horsetail, are often promoted for their calcium content, but you should approach them with caution. The primary active ingredient of interest here is calcium, a mineral essential for bone health [NIH ODS]. However, data on the specific efficacy of horsetail itself for any health condition is not available.
How it works
Calcium is a master regulator for your body. It supports bone mineralization and density, and it is critical for neuromuscular relaxation and nerve signaling [NIH ODS]. While horsetail is traditionally used as a source of calcium, the exact amount of calcium you get from a specific product like Herb Pharm Horsetail is not stated in the data provided.
Safety profile
The FDA has received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports related to dietary supplements, though specific side effects for horsetail are not listed in the provided data. Regarding calcium, high intakes can pose risks. High levels of calcium in the blood and urine may cause poor muscle tone, poor kidney function, low phosphate levels, constipation, nausea, weight loss, extreme tiredness, frequent urination, abnormal heart rhythms, and a high risk of death from heart disease [NIH ODS]. Some research also suggests high calcium intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
Given the lack of specific data on the calcium content and efficacy of this specific horsetail product, we cannot recommend it as a reliable source of calcium. If you are considering it for bone health, it would be more evidence-based to use a standard calcium supplement with a known dosage. Be aware that calcium supplements can reduce the absorption of medications like bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS]. Always consult your doctor before starting a new supplement.
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | Herb Pharm |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 1.0 fl. Oz. 30.0 mL |
| Market Status | Off Market |
How to Read This Label
Supplement labels contain several key sections regulated by the FDA:
- Serving Size — The recommended amount per dose. Always check this — some products require multiple capsules per serving.
- Amount Per Serving — Shows the quantity of each nutrient in the product, typically in IU (International Units), mg (milligrams), or mcg (micrograms).
- % Daily Value (%DV) — Indicates how much a nutrient in a serving contributes to a daily diet. 5% DV or less is low; 20% DV or more is high.
- Other Ingredients — Lists inactive ingredients like fillers, binders, and capsule materials (e.g., gelatin, cellulose, magnesium stearate).
- Suggested Use — The manufacturer's recommended directions for taking the supplement, including timing and dosage.
Source: FDA Dietary Supplement Labeling Guide