Common Male Fern
Dryopteris filix-mas
Dryopteris filix-mas, commonly known as male fern, is a traditional medicinal plant found in Europe, Asia, and North America. While its use in traditional medicine has not been extensively documented, it has shown potential in various studies. Scientific evidence indicates that the nutritional quality of D. filix-mas can vary based on environmental factors such as soil type, elevation, and neighboring plants. In one study, adding Majoone Sarkhas to levothyroxine treatment showed a greater reduction in serum TSH levels and an increase in FT3 and FT4 levels compared to levothyroxine alone, suggesting potential synergistic effects with thyroid hormone treatments. Additionally, both natural extracts and phytosynthesized silver nanoparticles derived from D. filix-mas exhibited some protective effects against grapevine pathogens and showed biostimulant properties. However, the spore morphology of this plant is very similar to that of D. patula and D. wallichiana with only minor differences noted in perispore fold length and thickness. No major safety concerns or known drug interactions have been recorded for Dryopteris filix-mas.
- Best evidence
- B
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- The nutritional quality of Dryopteris filix-mas varies depending on soil characteristics, elevation, and coexisting plant species.
- The study found that adding Majoone Sarkhas to levothyroxine treatment led to a greater reduction in TSH levels and an increase in FT3 and FT4 levels compared to levothyroxine alone.
- The study found that the spore morphology and ultrastructure of Dryopteris filix-mas, D. patula, and D. wallichiana are similar, with minor differences related to perispore fold length and thickness.
- Dryopteris filix-mas was identified as having the highest ethnopediatric relative therapeutic versatility among 153 medicinal plants reviewed.
- The study found that both natural extracts and phytosynthesized silver nanoparticles showed some protective effects against grapevine pathogens and exhibited potential biostimulant activity.
Frequently asked questions
What is Common Male Fern?
Common Male Fern (Dryopteris filix-mas) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about Common Male Fern?
5 sourced findings are recorded for Common Male Fern; the strongest carries evidence grade B. For example: The nutritional quality of Dryopteris filix-mas varies depending on soil characteristics, elevation, and coexisting plant species.
How strong is the evidence for Common Male Fern?
The strongest finding for Common Male Fern carries evidence grade B — moderate evidence. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Common Male Fern safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Common Male Fern in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Common Male Fern interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Common Male Fern in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Common Male Fern?
Common Male Fern is also known as: Щитовник мужской, Dryopteris male.
Is Common Male Fern a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 Historical ethnobotanical review of medicinal plants used to treat children diseases in Romania (1860s-1970s). literature abstract metadata
- T2 Palynological analysis of the genus Dryopteris Adans. (Dryopteridaceae) in Argentina. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Grapevine Plants Management Using Natural Extracts and Phytosynthesized Silver Nanoparticles. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Ecological factors affecting minerals and nutritional quality of "Dryopteris filix-mas (L.) Schott": an underutilized wild leafy vegetable in rural communities. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Evaluation of the add on effect of Majoone Sarkhas with levothyroxine in primary hypothyroidism: a randomized standard control adjuvant clinical study. literature abstract metadata