Scouring Rush (Mu Zei)

Chinese Bulk Herbs – Scouring Rush (Mu Zei)

Scouring Rush was used traditionally to stop bleeding, heal ulcers and wounds, and treat tuberculosis and kidney problems. It can also stregthen bones, and improve digestion.

Scouring Rush contains silicon, which plays a role in strengthening bone. For that reason, it is being studied for the treatment for osteoporosis. Scouring rush is a diuretic (helps rid the body of excess fluid by increasing urine output).

Clinical Use (Chinese):
Disperses wind-heat and eliminates visual obstruction – red, painful eyes, swelling, blurred vision, and pterygium.
Clears heat, stops bleeding – supporting herb for blood in the stool, and hemorrhoids

Latin Name:
Equiseti hiemalis
Equisetum hyemale

Chinese Name:
Mu Zei

Common Names:
Horsetail, Shave Grass, Scouring Rush, Equisetum

Parts Used:
Aerial portion

Properties:
Clears heat, disperses wind-heat

Cautions:
Avoid in patients with urinary frequency and do not use during pregnancy. Avoid in cases of qi and/or yin deficiency.

Folk Lore:
“Scouring rush has been suggested as a treatment for osteoporosis (thinning bone), because it contains silicon, a mineral needed for bone health. However, only one study has examined horsetail for osteoporosis. In that study, 122 Italian women took horsetail dry extract or Osteosil calcium 270 mg twice daily (a horsetail-calcium combination used in Italy for osteoporosis and fractures). Although both groups who took horsetail did improve bone density, the study was poorly designed. More research is needed to see whether horsetail has any effect on bone density.”

Milton S. Hershey Medical Center

*Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

**This information is provided to assist trained practitioners of traditional Chinese medicine with selection of products. If you are not familiar with these formulas or concepts please consult an acupuncturist or herbal practitioner trained in the use of Chinese herbs or refer to more in-depth reference materials. Chinese herbal remedies are meant to improve health and function, not act as a substitute for medical care.