Maidenhair fern (Adiantum pedatum) is a plant that is native to Europe. It is used as a favoring in alcoholic drinks and is sometimes used as medicine.
Maidenhair fern contains chemicals that might help reduce swelling (inflammation).
Maidenhair fern is used for cough, menstrual cramps (dysmenorrhea), wound healing, hair loss, and several other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.
Don't confuse maidenhair fern with Ginkgo, which is sometimes called maidenhair tree.
Is It Effective?
There is interest in using maidenhair fern for a number of purposes, but there isn't enough reliable information to say whether it might be helpful.
Is it Safe?
When taken by mouth: Maidenhair fern is likely safe when taken in the small amounts used as a flavoring in alcoholic drinks. There isn't enough reliable information to know if maidenhair fern is safe when taken in larger amounts as a medicine. Very large amounts may cause vomiting in some people.
When applied to the skin: There isn't enough reliable information to know if maidenhair fern is safe or what the side effects might be.
Special Precautions & Warnings:
Pregnancy: Maidenhair fern is unsafe to use when pregnant.
Breast-feeding: There isn't enough reliable information to know if maidenhair fern is safe to use when breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.
It is not known if Maidenhair Fern interacts with any medicines. Before taking Maidenhair Fern, talk with your healthcare professional if you take any medications.
There are no known interactions with herbs and supplements.
There are no known interactions with foods.
There isn't enough reliable information to know what an appropriate dose of maidenhair fern might be. Keep in mind that natural products are not always necessarily safe and dosages can be important. Be sure to follow relevant directions on product labels and consult a healthcare professional before using.
Adiante du Canada, Adiante Pédalé, Adiantum capillus-veneris, Adiantum pedatum, Capillaire du Canada, Capillaire à Cinq Doigts, Capillaire Pédalée, Cheveux de Vénus, Culantrillo, Five-Finger Fern, Fougère Fer-à-Cheval, Fougère à Pétiole, Hair of Venus, Herbe de Freya, Maiden Fern, Pare-siavoshan, Rock Fern, Venus' Hair.
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