ΑΔΙΑΝΤΟΝ
Adiantum capillus-veneris
(Maidenhair fern)
Botanical info:
Maidenhair fern is terrestrial or epilithic plant, 10-40 cm tall, with short-creeping rhizome, 1.5–2.5 mm thick, with slender dark brown scales. Grows on moist calcareous rocks and banks; Native in the Mediterranean region, naturalized in Central Europe. Not flowering.
Hippocratic legacy:
a. In Fistulas maidenhair fern is recommended:
a. For the treatment of abscess orifice translocation.
b. In Diseases 3 is described:
a. As a treatment for jaundice.
c. In Nature of Women is recommended:
a. As menstruation stimulant and placenta abortive.
d. In Diseases of Women 1 is described as:
a. Birth stimulant.
e. In Diseases of Women 2 is recommended:
a. For the treatment of leucorrhea.
b. As uterus purgative.
Other uses:
Its chief use has been as a remedy in pectoral complaints. A pleasant syrup is made in France from its fronds and rhizomes, which is given as a favorite medicine in pulmonary catarrhs. It is flavored with orange flowers and acts as a demulcent with slightly stimulating effects. This plant is used medicinally by native Americans, internally for rheumatism, as a lotion for bumblebee and centipede stings, and smoke it or take it internally to treat mental illness. In Iran, frond infusion is used for jaundice therapy.