Herb latin name: Polypodium lineare


Synonyms: Lepisorus thunbergianus, Pleopeltis elongata, Pleopeltis thunbergiana


Family: Polypodiaceae (Polypody Fern Family)



Medicinal use of Polypodium lineare:

The whole plant is antiphlogistic and diuretic. It is used in the treatment of urinary calculus, urinary tract infections, bacterial dysentery, chronic bronchitis and rheumatism.

Description of the plant:



Plant:
Evergreen
Fern

Height:
25 cm
(9 3/4 inch)

Habitat of the herb:

Epiphytic on tree trunks and rocks in lowland and low mountains all over Japan. Often found on old brick walls.

Propagation of Polypodium lineare:

Spores - best sown as soon as ripe on the surface of a humus-rich sterilized soil. Keep the compost moist, preferably by putting a plastic bag over the pot. Pot on small clumps of plantlets as soon as they are large enough to handle and keep humid until they are well established. Do not plant outside until the ferns are at least 2 years old and then only in a very well sheltered position. Division in spring.

Cultivation of the herb:

Epiphytic on tree trunks and rocks in lowland and low mountains all over Japan. Often found on old brick walls.

Known hazards of Polypodium lineare:

Although we have found no reports of toxicity for this species, a number of ferns contain carcinogens so some caution is advisable. 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.

Plant information taken from the Plants For A Future.