What Is Male Fern Root?

root-system-of-fern

Male fern root, also known as Dryopteris filix-mas, Bear's paw, Knotty Brake, and Sweet Brake, has been used for centuries as a defense against harmful organisms. [1] Beyond that, the male fern root also offers other health benefits for humans such as digestive support and detoxification.

Origins of Male Fern

Male fern is native to the temperate climates of Asia, Europe, and much of South and North America. The plant is highly adaptable and can grow well in both arid and fertile soils. The root of the male fern, usually harvested in early autumn, is dried for therapeutic purposes. As far back as 103 A.D., Greek and Roman physicians used the male fern root to help expel harmful organisms from the intestines and digestive tract. In fact, it is rumored that Louis XVI of France paid large sums of money to add this powerful fern to his own medicine chest.

How Does Male Fern Root Work?

The male fern root is loaded with cleansing compounds known as filicin and filmarone. These essential oils are responsible for eradicating harmful organisms by creating a harsh intestinal environment that is toxic to harmful intestinal organisms. [2] Studies also show that male fern root's oleo-resins cause harmful organisms in the intestines to become immobile, preventing them from attaching themselves to the interior lining of human intestinal walls. In both human and animal case studies, male fern root was shown to have a dramatic effect on eliminating harmful organisms both inside and outside of the GI tract.

Health Benefits of Male Fern Root

Male fern root is also rich in antioxidants, folic acid, phloroglucinol derivatives, and several other necessary trace essential oils which promote overall digestive health. Traditionally cited benefits of male fern root include:

  • Powerful astringent
  • Promotes harmful organism cleansing
  • Supports digestive health
  • Natural intestinal cleanser
  • Encourages normal liver function

Supplementing With Male Fern Root

References (2)
  1. Herbs 2000. Male Fern. Herbs 2000.
  2. James Copland, MD. A Dictionary of Practical Medicine. New York. 1869.

†Results may vary. Information and statements made are for education purposes and are not intended to replace the advice of your doctor. If you have a severe medical condition or health concern, see your physician.


Top
Dr. Edward Group, DC
FOUNDER | HEALER | ADVOCATE

Dr. Group, DC is a healer and alternative health advocate, and an industry leader and innovator in the field of natural health who is dedicated to helping others. He is a registered doctor of chiropractic (DC), a naturopathic practitioner (NP), and proud alum of Harvard Business School and MIT Sloan School of Management. Dr. Group, DC is the founder of Global Healing – a mission and vision he has shared through best-selling books and frequent media appearances. He aims to spread his message of positivity, hope, and wellness throughout the world.

Related Posts
The Ultimate Candida Diet Program
Candida Defined Causes Symptoms Diet Plan Supplementation Maintenance Ten years ago, few people knew about the significance of Candida overgrowth, let alone the health benefits of embarking on a Candida...
Heavy Metal and Chemical Cleanse: 30-Day Whole-Body Detox
Exposure to toxins and heavy metals can take a real toll on your health. Toxin overload can inflame the body and cause a range of mild yet seemingly unexplained symptoms,...
Golden Maple Turmeric Tea: Recipe for a Healthy Inflammatory Response
As the days grow colder, we often find ourselves craving warmth and comfort inside and out. Lower temperatures and fewer hours of sunlight also mean your immune system could use...
Your Guide to Insulin Resistance and Why it's Important to Manage
Insulin resistance is a growing health concern that affects millions of people worldwide. The condition occurs when the body's cells become less responsive to insulin. As a result, the pancreas...
Your Body Is the Medicine: An Overview of Self-Healing
This post is an introduction to Your Body Is the Medicine – a Global Healing series that dives into eight self-healing systems, how they work, and what you can do...
Inflammation: Why It Happens and How to Turn It Into Healing Power
Inflammation is your body's natural way of defending and healing itself. When you get a cut, twist an ankle, or fight off an infection, your immune system responds with inflammation...
Back to blog