An ancient fern with popular uses

Renowned in ancient and medieval pharmacopoeias, male fern has long been used in medicinal preparations. Although some parts of the plant are toxic when used internally, the dried fronds are used externally in infusions or poultices for traditional and natural treatments.

Description

Dried frond, cut into thin segments, brownish green to dark brown. Fibrous texture, woody and slightly earthy odor. Typical appearance of dried temperate forest ferns.

Nomenclature

• Common names: Male fern, wood fern
• Latin name: Filix mas (syn. Dryopteris filix-mas )
• Family: Dryopteridaceae
• Part used: Sling
• Shape: Cut
• Origin: Temperate forests of Europe and Asia
• English name: Male fern
• German name: Wurmfarn
• Name in Spanish: Helecho macho
• Name in Italian: Felce maschio
• Name in Arabic: السرخس الذكري

Main virtues

The cut frond is traditionally used in decoctions or baths for its toning properties on the skin. It is also used in certain homemade cosmetic preparations or for muscle comfort treatments.

Main constituents

Tannins, resins, phloroglucinolic derivatives (mainly in the underground parts), mucilages, organic acids.

Use and dosage

• Decoction: 30 to 50 g of frond in 1 liter of water, boil for 10 to 15 minutes, filter. External use only.
• Baths: Pour the filtered decoction into a hot bath or foot bath.
• Compresses: soak a clean cloth and apply to the affected areas.

Precautions, side effects and contraindications

• External use only – do not ingest.
• Keep out of reach of children.
• Do not use in pregnant or breastfeeding women without medical advice.

History and origin

Male fern is present in the writings of Dioscorides and medieval herbals, mentioned for its varied uses. Formerly used in deworming treatments (root), its frond has remained a classic ingredient in folk treatments applied to the skin or incorporated into rustic baths.

Miscellaneous information

• Packaging: in kraft bag or opaque box.
• Storage: away from heat and humidity.
• Shelf life: 18 months.

Sources and references

• Pl@ntUse – https://uses.plantnet-project.org
• Classic works of European herbalism
• Flora Europaea and ancient pharmacopoeias

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