Equisetum bogotense
| Andean horsetail | |
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| Andean horsetail | |
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| Species: | E. bogotense
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| Binomial name | |
| Equisetum bogotense | |
The Andean horsetail (Equisetum bogotense) is a herbaceous perennial that reproduces through spores. It has thicker less bushy[clarification needed] whorled branches, and a silica rich rhizomatous stem, which roots grow out of, under ground. This stem is a dull dark brown color with glabrous growth aside from the sheathed segments. The plant has a history as a traditional herbal remedy, and a study of its diuretic effects on humans showed significant increases in urinary sodium, potassium, and chloride. Human and animal trials of indicate that E. bogotense has "high" efficacy as a diuretic.[1] It is used in several modern herbal supplements.[2]
A segregate species, Equisetum rinihuense, has been described.
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