Herb comparison
Dragon's Blood (Dracaena draco) vs Horsetail (Equisetum arvense)
Both plants are listed as traditional remedies for 1 of the same condition, which is why they are easy to confuse. Their descriptions and full safety notes are below, free.
- About
- Dragon’s blood derives its name from the deep red sap or latex that oozes from the tree when the bark is cut. A prized rainforest medicine, the latex is applied to wounds, fractures, skin infections, and insect bites. Internally, it is taken to treat diarrhea and dysentery, stomach ulcers, viral infections, and as a vaginal bath before and following childbirth.Horsetail (Equisetum arvense) is a primitive perennial plant with hollow, segmented stems - first producing spore-bearing yellowish fruiting stems in spring, then green, needle-like sterile stems reaching about 2 ft (60 cm). Rich in silica, it is valued for aiding connective tissue, bone, hair, and nail health, as well as for its mild diuretic and astringent qualities.
- Safety & precautions
- Can permanently stain clothingLong-Term Use: Can deplete vitamin B1 (thiamine), so combining with a B-vitamin supplement is advised if taken for extended periods. Children: The powdered herb is not recommended, though a weak tea can be safe in mild cases. General: Large amounts or prolonged usage should be monitored by a healthcare professional.
Safety text above is printed in full and is never abbreviated. For each plant’s complete precautions, drug and food interactions and preparation notes, open its own page - both are free.