Polypodium vulgare Polypody (Polypodiaceae) Evergreen fern

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Polypodium vulgare
Polypody
Evergreen fern
(1 Page of 5)

The Polypodium vulgare plant species is found in Britain. It is a member of the Polypodiaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Polypody.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Polypodium vulgare
Common Name:  Polypody
Family:  Polypodiaceae
Author:  L.

Known Hazards:  Although we have found no reports of toxicity for this species, a number of ferns contain carcinogens so some caution is advisable[200]. Many ferns also contain thiaminase, an enzyme that robs the body of its vitamin B complex. In small quantities this enzyme will do no harm to people eating an adequate diet that is rich in vitamin B, though large quantities can cause severe health problems. The enzyme is destroyed by heat or thorough drying, so cooking the plant will remove the thiaminase[172].

Mature Height:  0.3   Mature Width:  0.3

Habitat:  Rocks, walls and trees, as well as on the ground, in a variety of habitats[187] but especially in humid shady conditions[31].

Medicinal Information: Polypody stimulates bile secretion and is a gentle laxative. In European herbal medicine it is traditionally used as a treatment for hepatitis and jaundice and as a remedy for indigestion and loss of appetite[254]. It should not be used externally since it can cause skin rashes[254]. The root is alterative, anthelmintic, cholagogue, demulcent, diuretic, expectorant, pectoral, purgative, tonic[4, 238, 240]. It can be used either fresh or dried and is best harvested in October or November, though it can be collected until February[4]. The leaves can also be used but are less active[4]. A tea made from the roots is used in the treatment of pleurisy, hives, sore throats and stomach aches and as a mild laxative for children[222]. It was also considered of value for lung ailments and liver diseases[222]. The poulticed root is applied to inflammations[222]. A tea or syrup of the whole plant is anthelmintic[222].

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
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