The Maidenhair fern has a long history of medicinal use and was the main ingredient in a popular cough syrup called "Capillaire", which remained on the market until the nineteenth century. It is not related to Ginkgo Biloba, it does, however, bear a small resemblance to the leaf of the Maidenhair fern. It has been found to be useful in traditional medicine as an expectorant for respiratory problems, such as asthma, pneumonia, and the cough and congestion associated with colds. The properties of the herb are said to be antibacterial, anti-candidal, anti-viral, and has been used as a contraceptive.Maidenhair fern extract has also been used for arteriosclerosis and other varicose disorders such as varicose veins and hemorrhoids. Also has been used for relieving painful and excessive menstruation.Plant extracts from Maidenhair fern extracts have detoxifying effects on alcoholism. Peruvian shaman have used the herbal extract for alopecia (hair loss), jaundice, gall and kidney stones.
Used as a tonic, it is believed to strengthen, tone and balance the body's systems. Energetically, Maidenhair fern appears to dry and cool and has an affinity for the heart and reproductive system. Cherokee used Maidenhair fern externally, and internally, for rheumatism. Two main actions of the herb are thought to be its ability to fight free radicals and cleanse the blood. Other uses for the herbal tincture have been for poor circulation, such as varicose veins, Raynaud's disease, and macular degeneration.
Western herbalists have used it for treating chronic, lingering cough, and across the world as a soothing expectorant to treat bronchitis, and other respiratory disorders such as asthma and common colds. It has also been found to be effective for sore throats, laryngitis, and nasal congestion. It has also been employed as refrigerant, mild diuretic and diaphoretic, which causes perspiration and may be helpful for bringing down a fever.
The diuretic attribute is also considered to be helpful for treating gravel, kidney stones, and other contaminations of the kidneys. It stimulates bile in the liver and has been used for jaundice and considered to be hepatoprotective (liver protector) and so has been found to be useful in cases of hepatitis in herbal medicine. Maidenhair fern extracts have also been used to aid in detoxification for alcoholics.
Externally, Maidenhair fern preparations are used to relieve dry, itchy scalp, dandruff, and to give the hair a healthy glow. It is also believed to be helpful for hair loss, caked breasts, wasp stings, bee stings, centipede stings, snakebites, boils, eczema, and wounds.
External uses: Sometimes used in hair rinses as a tonic.
Ingredients: Maidenhair Fern, Distilled Water, 20% Alcohol.
Instructions: Use 6-12 drops in juice, water, under the tongue, or as desired. May be taken 3 times daily. Shake well. Store in cool, dark place. Keep out of reach of children.
Contraindications: Speak with your doctor before taking Maiden Hair if you are taking prescription MAO inhibitors (antidepressants) or blood thinners. Discuss its use before having surgery, if you are pregnant or if you take painkillers on a regular basis. It is not recommended for epileptics. Topical or internal use may cause skin irritations, mild headaches or mild upset stomach. CAUTION: Do not use if pregnant.
Disclaimer: The information presented herein by New Way Herbs is intended for educational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent disease. Individual results may vary, and before using any supplements, it is always advisable to consult with your own healthcare provider.
