Male Fern
Dryopteris filix-mas · Dryopteridaceae
Male Fern
Polystic (fougère mâle)
Dryopteris filix-mas
Polystichum filix-mas
Dryopteridaceae
Traditionally used
⚠ Male fern rhizome is a documented tapeworm remedy but a dangerous one, and we hold it as record only. Its phloroglucinol acids paralyze the parasite before the worm can be passed, yet the same compounds irritate the gut and, once absorbed, first excite and then paralyze the nervous system. It was given only by prescription, at a strictly capped dose, and was forbidden in anyone with digestive or liver trouble. There is no safe home preparation.
In three languages
Français — ⚠ Le rhizome de fougère mâle est un remède documenté contre le ténia, mais dangereux, et nous ne le gardons qu'à titre de mémoire. Ses acides phloroglucinés paralysent le parasite avant son expulsion, mais les mêmes composés irritent l'intestin et, une fois absorbés, excitent puis paralysent le système nerveux. Il n'était donné que sur prescription, à dose strictement plafonnée, et interdit en cas de troubles digestifs ou hépatiques. Il n'existe pas de préparation domestique sûre.
Safety
Safety notes for this plant are still being written. Until they are, treat it with a cautious hand.
Plants can look similar and be misidentified — always verify with a local herbalist or guide before use.
Sources & lineage
documented anthelmintic pharmacology; rhizome filicic acid and filmarone (phloroglucinol derivatives)
Kept alongside