(Maidenhair fern)
Botanical info:
The maidenhair fern is a perennial fern, 10–40 cm tall, with a short rhizome measuring 1.5–2.5 mm in diameter and covered with fine dark-brown scales. It grows in moist, shaded habitats such as waterfalls, springs, fountains, wells, and other permanently damp places. The species has a cosmopolitan distribution throughout temperate regions.
Hippocratic legacy:
a. In On 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:
Infusions prepared from the fresh or dried fronds of Adiantum capillus-veneris (and, more rarely, its rhizomes) have traditionally been used as an anticoagulant, diaphoretic, antipyretic, antitussive, and mild expectorant. In the past, a popular remedy for cough consisted of an infusion of the fronds and rhizomes, flavoured with orange blossoms.
The plant has also been used traditionally as an astringent, emetic, mild emmenagogue, galactagogue, laxative, tonic, and remedy for depression.
Infusions of species of the genus Adiantum have long been used in traditional medicine for the treatment of dry scalp and as a hair tonic.
Its fronds are occasionally used as a garnish for desserts.
Its Latin name, meaning "the hair of Venus," refers to the plant's delicate beauty and its association with the goddess Aphrodite. It is widely cultivated as an ornamental fern and is well suited to both indoor and outdoor settings, provided the soil remains constantly moist. It also grows well when planted beside a garden fountain or other permanent water source.