Ostrich fern

Ostrichfern is a plant whose shoots, also known as fern tips, are used to make medicine.

Ostrichfern is used as a gargle solution for sore throats. Sometimes ostrich fern is applied directly to the skin to treat wounds and boils. In food, fern tips are considered a seasonal delicacy. They are available in canned, frozen and fresh form. Fresh fern tips must be boiled for at least 10 minutes before consumption, otherwise they can cause food poisoning.

How does ostrich fern work?

Ostrichfern could act as a laxative. Apart from this, there is not enough information about how ostrich fern might work.

How effective is ostrich fern?

There is not enough scientific data to make a statement about the effectiveness of ostrich fern for sore throats in the form of a gargle solution and for sores and boils applied to the skin. Further scientific research is needed to evaluate the effectiveness of ostrich fern in these applications.

Safety and side effects

Ostrichfern appears to be safe and harmless for most people when used as a food and boiled for at least 10 minutes before consumption. Eating ostrich fern that has not been cooked properly can cause nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, diarrhea, headaches and serious food poisoning. There is not enough information on whether it is safe to use cooked ostrich fern as medicine.

Precautions and warnings

Pregnancy and lactation: Not enough is known about the use of ostrich fern during pregnancy and lactation. For this reason, pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid ostrich fern.

Interactions

There is currently no information on interactions between ostrich fern and medications or supplements.

Dosage

An appropriate dosage of ostrich fern depends on various factors such as age, state of health and others. At this time, there is insufficient scientific data to make a statement about appropriate dosage ranges for ostrich fern. For this reason, you should follow the dosage instructions on the label and/or consult a doctor or pharmacist before use.