Male Fern, Dryopteris filix-mas

This wood fern grows in shaded, damp soils under the canopy throughout much of Europe, Asia and North and South America. Be careful to correctly identify this fern as it has look-alikes.

Identification: The Male Fern is a large fern with graceful bands of fronds. It grows to 4 feet (1.2m) in height. The plant does not flower but reproduces by spores and rhizomes. The slowly creeping rootstock forms a crown at the soil surface with a ring of fronds. It grows quite wide and becomes crowded over time, a distinguishing characteristic. The dull green leaves are usually upright, 8 to 30 inches (10 cm to 75 cm) long, and 4 to 12 inches (10 cm to 30 cm) wide, with its widest section at its middle. They have 20 to 30 pairs of deeply divided tapering leaflets growing on the main stem. The bark on each frond is usually hidden but is dark brown in color. This plant has no smell. Edible Use: The leaves and roots of the male fern are edible. Cooked young leaves taste like asparagus or artichoke. They should be eaten in moderation, as in large quantities they can be toxic. The rhizomes can be eaten raw or cooked and are sometimes used as a weight-loss strategy. Use with caution. Medicinal Use: The roots are used internally as a tea or through ingestion. Do not use an alcoholic tincture or oil infusion internally, only externally. Treating Tapeworms: Treating tapeworms and other parasites is probably the most common way that people use male fern medicinally. Use the rootstalks to paralyze parasites and thus purge them from the body. To use this remedy, eat the root after fasting for at least a few hours. The roots contain oleo-resins, filicin, and filmarone, all of which work to eradicate parasites. It works for pets as well but be careful with dosage for both humans and pets. Do not ingest oils, fats, or alcohols while using this. A light laxative is often used alongside this treatment. Use with great caution. Colds and Viruses, Fevers, Mumps: The roots of male fern have anti-viral and antibacterial properties. They lower fevers and help heal the body from viral and bacterial diseases. Hemorrhage: Male fern root is useful for the treatment of internal hemorrhage and uterine bleeding.

Boils, Sores, and Other Skin Conditions:

Skin infections and irritations such as boils, carbuncles, sores, and abscesses are treated with a tincture made from the male fern root. Apply the tincture directly onto the affected area. Use this tincture externally only. Harvesting: Harvest roots in the autumn. Dry for later use.

Warning: Caution is advised. Use it in moderation and be very careful with dosage. Best used under medical supervision. Do not use if pregnant or if you have heart issues. Do not take with oil, fats, or alcohol as it increases its toxicity.