Herbs That Heal

 

FERN MALE

 


FERN (MALE)

(Dryopteris filix-mas)

Other Names

Aspidium, Bear’s Paw Root, Knotty Brake, Sweet Brake.

Description

Fern is a perennial plant native to Canada and the USA.   It grows in shady areas among rocks and on decaying foliage and tree stumps.   The creeping, rootstock produces lush foliage.   The dark green leaves are covered with spores on the underside.   Along the veins these spores appear in rows of golden brown spots.

Classification

 

Taste

 

Balance Yin/Yang

 

Humor

 

Uses/Applications

Used in the treatment of worms.

Combinations

 

Constituents

Filicin, Filixid Acid, Tannin, Essential Oil.

Action

Vermifuge.

Food Values

None.

Part Used

Rootstock.

Collection

Gather the rootstock in the fall.

Preparation

Proper preparation and dosage are essential.   If left in the body too long Fern can be poisonous.   One to two hours after taking it use a purgative to remove the worms and the remaining active ingredients.   Place Male fern leaves in your pets bedding to protect from fleas.

Growing Directions

Starter plants are commercially available.   They prefer humus rich soil and shady places.   Fern leaves contain potash making them excellent as mulch for potatoes.

History

 

Additional Information

 

Cautions

1.   Use only under medical supervision

2.   Do not take alcohol while using the male Fern.

3.   Highly toxic in large doses.

Magick Information

 

Gender:

 Masculine

Planet:

 Mercury

Element:

 Air

Deity:

 Laka, Puck

Powers:

 Guidance, Protection.

Magickal Uses:

 For protection, place in Fern in your flower bouquets or plant along the doorstep.   When worn it will guide you.