Common Oak Fern
Gymnocarpium dryopteris
Gymnocarpium dryopteris, commonly known as the wood fern or hedge fern, is a traditional plant found in temperate regions. Its use in any specific traditional medicine practices has not been documented. Scientific studies have shown that its spores exhibit reduced germination and gametophyte viability in saline environments, with no viable spores detected in marine sediments. Cuticular waxes on the fronds of this fern species were analyzed, revealing species-specific compositions and amounts, though specific findings related to Gymnocarpium dryopteris are limited. Seventy-seven volatile organic compounds were identified in various French ferns, including coumarin and aldehydes, which are also found in "fougère" scents used in perfumery, suggesting potential aromatic or chemical properties. Fungal biomass associated with bryophytes was generally higher than that of co-occurring vascular plants, indicating a possible ecological interaction but not specific to Gymnocarpium dryopteris. Safety concerns for this plant are minimal; no major issues have been recorded. There is also no reported evidence of drug interactions.
- Best evidence
- D
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- Gymnocarpium dryopteris spores showed reduced germination and gametophyte viability in saline water, with no viable spores detected in marine sediments.
- Fungal biomass associated with bryophytes was generally higher than that of co-occurring vascular plants.
- The study analyzed cuticular waxes on fronds of five temperate fern species, including Gymnocarpium dryopteris, revealing species-specific compositions and amounts.
- Seventy-seven volatile organic compounds were identified in six French ferns, including coumarin and aldehydes, which are related to notes found in "fougère" scents used in perfumery.
Frequently asked questions
What is Common Oak Fern?
Common Oak Fern (Gymnocarpium dryopteris) 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 Oak Fern?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Common Oak Fern; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Gymnocarpium dryopteris spores showed reduced germination and gametophyte viability in saline water, with no viable spores detected in marine sediments.
How strong is the evidence for Common Oak Fern?
The strongest finding for Common Oak Fern carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Common Oak Fern safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Common Oak Fern in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Common Oak Fern interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Common Oak Fern in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Common Oak Fern?
Common Oak Fern is also known as: Голокучник обыкновенный, Gymnocarpe dryoptéris.
Is Common Oak 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 Fungal biomass associated with the phyllosphere of bryophytes and vascular plants. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Volatiles of French ferns and "fougère" scent in perfumery. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Fern spore longevity in saline water: can sea bottom sediments maintain a viable spore bank? literature abstract metadata
- T2 Coverage and composition of cuticular waxes on the fronds of the temperate ferns Pteridium aquilinum, Cryptogramma crispa, Polypodium glycyrrhiza, Polystichum munitum and Gymnocarpium dryopteris. literature abstract metadata