Overview Although the exact biological role for silicon has not been determined, it appears to be required for proper integrity of the skin, ligaments, tendons, and bone. Silicon appears to be required for the proper functioning of an enzyme (prolyl hydroxylase) which functions in the formation of collagen in bone, cartilage, and other connective tissues. Medicinal Ingredients Each capsule contains: Field Horsetail Extract (Equisetum arvense) (aerial) 500 mg (Providing 10 mg of silica) Non-Medicinal Ingredients Rice powder, vegetarian capsule (carbohydrate gum [cellulose], purified water, silica), vegetable grade magnesium stearate (lubricant). Advanced Info Silica is derived from horsetail (Equisetum arvens). The durable horsetail plant is a superb source of silica and calcium, necessary for bone and connective tissue repair and maintenance. Horsetail has traditionally been used to speed recovery from fractures and torn ligaments. Although abundant in nature, silica is poorly absorbed by the body. Silica is essential for healthy hair, skin, and nails. Silica works on a cellular level and is part of the cartilage-forming cells and the fibre-building cells that form collagen. Horsetail, an excellent blood clotting agent, antibacterial and astringent, staunches wounds and stops nosebleeds. Horsetail is a very popular remedy for bladder problems, especially bed-wetting. Silicon makes aluminum less available to the body.