Many of the other members of the genus Dryopteris
were harvested for their roots, an important source of starch for First Nations
Peoples. The roots of the Male Fern however have a long history of use
to rid the body of parasites, especially tapeworm. They are highly effective.
A single, properly measured and prepared dose is usually sufficient to
kill the worm and free it from the body. It
acts by paralysing the muscles of the worm so that it relaxes its hold on the
intestinal wall. Dosage is from 4
-- 16 grams of the powdered root, depending on body size and constitution, with
the average adult dose being from 10 – 15 grams
Lady
Fern, which is of similar appearance, but more delicate, may also be used to
remove parasites. Though it is less
powerful, it is also less toxic. It
is best to prepare the intestine for dose of Male Fern by thoroughly cleansing
it first through fasting or the administration of a cathartic. You may take food after dosing, but only light food, with no
fats.
You
can also make an excellent, highly effective massage oil for
muscular pains by soaking crushed, dried Male Fern fronds in olive oil.
Leave the mixture in a warm, dark place for several weeks, then pressed
or strained.
CAUTION:
Dosage is critical when using Male Fern to remove a tapeworm.
Too small of a dose will fail to kill the worm, too large of one can be
poisonous, with symptoms of abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting and possibly
coma, liver damage or blindness. Fats in the digestive tract can increase the
absorption the toxic products so avoid it.
Sale of Male Fern and its extracts is restricted.
Do not take during pregnancy.
OTHER
USES:
The
young shoots of the Male Fern can be eaten fresh or cooked.
MEDICINAL
USES: