Matteuccia struthiopteris, Ostrich Fern (also Matteuccia pensylvanica)
I have been unable to find any medicinal uses for Ostrich Fern either, but it is a choice edible. The Ostrich Fern is believed to be much safer than bracken and this is the fern we gather in early spring to eat as “fiddle heads”. It is a very pretty ornamental plant, as well, and should be grown in any garden where climate allows. I have no concern at all about eating this fern, but Plants for A Future states:
Although we have found no reports of toxicity for this species, a number of ferns contain carcinogens so some caution is advisable. Many ferns also contain thiaminase, an enzyme that robs the body of its vitamin B complex. In small quantities this enzyme will do no harm to people eating an adequate diet that is rich in vitamin B, though large quantities can cause severe health problems. The enzyme is destroyed by heat or thorough drying, so cooking the plant will remove the thiaminase.
Osmunda claytoniana, Interrupted Fern
I like the name of this fern because it begs the question, “What was it doing when it was interrupted?” Well, actually it just has to do with the way it grows, basically the way the fronds form. In its young form, as a “fiddlehead”, it looks just like Ostrich Fern, but this one could be carcinogenic. It is a good idea to identify your ferns when mature so that you know what you will be picking the next spring.
The Interrupted Fern does have some documented medicinal use. Plants for A Future tells us, “The roots are used as an adulterant for Dryopteris felix-mas in the treatment of internal worms.”
This article is an excerpt from
Medicinal Ferns and Fern Allies, an Herbalist's Guide https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/11/medicinal-ferns-and-fern-allies.html
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Disclaimer
The information on this site is not intended to diagnose or treat any disease or condition. Nothing on this site has been evaluated or approved by the FDA. I am not a doctor. The US government does not recognize the practice of herbal medicine and their is no governing body regulating herbalists. Therefore, I'm just a guy who studies herbs. I am not offering any advice. I won't even claim that anything I write is accurate or true! I can tell you what herbs have "traditionally been used for." I can tell you my own experience and if I believe an herb helped me. I cannot, nor would I tell you to do the same. If you use any herb I, or anyone else, mentions you are treating yourself. You take full responsibility for your health. Humans are individuals and no two are identical. What works for me may not work for you. You may have an allergy, sensitivity or underlying condition that no one else shares and you don't even know about. Be careful with your health. By continuing to read my blog you agree to be responsible for yourself, do your own research, make your own choices and not to blame me for anything, ever.
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