Content
The fern is considered one of the most ancient plants of the osmund family. It got its distribution in the countries of Asia, Mexico and Finland. Due to its rich composition, the fern is useful for the human body. But if used incorrectly, it can cause irreparable harm to health. Therefore, the plant must be used very carefully.
Fern nutritional value and chemical composition
The fern is a plant that grows up to 30 m in height. It reproduces by spores, which are located at the bottom of its base. There are many varieties of the plant. Some of them are used for decorative purposes. Others are used in cooking and alternative medicine.
It is important to study the characteristics of the fern before using. The benefits and harms to humans are determined by the method of application. A freshly plucked plant contains toxic substances. Therefore, before use, it is pretreated thermally.
100 g of fern contains:
- 5.5 g carbohydrates;
- 4.6 g of proteins;
- 0.4 g fat.
Useful substances are concentrated not only in the leaves, but also in the rhizomes of the plant. They include:
- aspidinol;
- tannins;
- phosphorus;
- iron;
- essential oils;
- zinc;
- vitamins A, B, C and PP;
- selenium;
- iron;
- magnesium;
- flavaspidic acid;
- sodium;
- beta carotene.
How many calories are in a fern
The calorie content of a fern per 100 grams is only 34 kcal. This allows it to be used in dietary nutrition. The calorie content of stewed fern is 45.3 kcal. When combined with other components, the calorie content of the dish increases.
Useful properties of fern
Since ancient times, fern has been used for medicinal purposes and cooking. But not all plant varieties differ in useful properties. Some of them are considered poisonous. The main feature of the plant is the elimination of toxic substances. Other beneficial properties of edible fern are as follows:
- stimulation of vitality;
- restoration of blood sugar levels;
- improved blood composition;
- normalization of the immune system;
- stabilization of thyroid function;
- strengthening of bone tissue;
- stimulation of metabolism.
Fern root medicinal properties
Not only shoots, but also plant rhizomes are famous for healing properties. On their basis, tinctures and decoctions are prepared. There is a positive effect of the drug on various tumors. With the help of fern tincture, joint pain is eliminated and varicose veins are treated.The beneficial properties of plant rhizomes also include:
- antihelminthic action;
- anti-inflammatory effect;
- elimination of painful sensations;
- healing of ulcerative formations and weeping wounds;
- antitumor effect.
The benefits of fern for humans in food
Young leaves are used in cooking. They are canned for the winter, added to salads, baked and boiled in soup. The dried leaves are used instead of seasoning. The plant tastes like asparagus or mushrooms. In terms of its nutritional value, it has been compared to the protein of cereals. The product is well absorbed without causing the feeling of overeating. It has a positive effect on the nervous system and promotes the elimination of radionuclides from the body.
What fern can be eaten
Only certain varieties and parts of the fern are eaten. Rhizomes are used exclusively for medicinal purposes. Shoots of young plants are in demand in cooking. They are called rakhis. But even they are forbidden to be eaten raw. Heat treatment of the plant is considered mandatory.
Dried and chopped rachis act as a seasoning for meat. Salted or boiled young leaves are added to salads, soups and main dishes. When fresh, the plant is bitter. To eliminate it, the leaves are soaked in salted water. To preserve useful properties for a long time, the shoots are canned. The product goes well with vegetables, meat, soy sauce and rice.
Fern benefits for humans
The health benefits of ferns for adults are nutrient enrichment. Due to this, the body's immune forces are strengthened and resistance to various diseases increases. The plant is indicated for use by people leading a sedentary lifestyle and working in hazardous industries. In the presence of excess weight, it stimulates the metabolism, which contributes to harmless weight loss.
Fern benefits for men
Medicinal ferns are widely used in the treatment of male diseases. Due to the content of a large number of trace elements, the plant has a positive effect on reproductive function, increasing the chances of a favorable conception. The anti-inflammatory effect allows it to be used in the fight against hemorrhoids, prostatitis and impotence. Baths with the addition of fern broth relieve the painful sensations of rheumatism.
What is the use of fern for women
Women use medicinal ferns to eliminate gynecological pathologies, treat chronic diseases and for cosmetic purposes. Herbal decoctions and tinctures can be ingested and applied locally to problem areas. Fern broth is often used for ovarian inflammation. Treatment is carried out for 2-3 weeks. There is a month break between courses. One of the advantages of the plant is the ability to combine with medications. Thanks to its beneficial properties, it also helps in the following situations:
- phlebeurysm;
- acne;
- migraine;
- premenstrual syndrome;
- slowed down metabolism;
- inflammation of the reproductive organs.
Is it possible for pregnant women to eat fern
Certain plant varieties are strictly prohibited for women in position. They stimulate uterine contractions, thereby increasing the likelihood of miscarriage. Side effects such as dizziness, seizures and respiratory failure are also possible. The edible varieties presented in the Korean food departments are not harmful to pregnant women.
Is it possible for a fern for a nursing mother
In the postpartum period, women carefully monitor their diet.Even a slight deviation from the usual diet can result in an allergic reaction in the baby. Varieties intended for human consumption are not prohibited in this case. But it is important to observe the reaction of the child's body to the introduction of a new product. Fern-based medicines are not recommended.
At what age can a fern for children
The healing properties of the fern make it essential for children. The rich iodine content is of particular value. The product is approved for use from 2 years old. It is introduced into the diet gradually in small portions. The possibility of using medicinal fern on an individual basis is discussed with a doctor.
Fern medicinal uses
Doctors prescribe fern in order to increase the effectiveness of the main treatment. The female fern is especially popular for eliminating worms. It paralyzes the muscular system of parasites and removes from the body toxins that they release during their life. The plant extract is part of the "Filixan" preparation. Its counterpart can be prepared at home using available tools.
The plant is no less effective in the following cases:
- cholecystitis;
- epilepsy;
- malignant formations;
- pleurisy;
- constipation.
The use of fern in traditional medicine
The medicinal properties of the fern are highly valued in folk medicine as well. The funds made on its basis are not inferior in effectiveness to some drugs. Moreover, the likelihood of side effects is much lower.
Fern tincture
Alcohol tincture is used for transdermal application. It is rubbed into problem areas 3-4 times a day. The cooking process is as follows:
- The crushed roots are poured with alcohol in a ratio of 1/4.
- The drug is infused for 2 weeks in a dark place.
- Filter the tincture before use.
With dry pleurisy, the drug is taken 3 times a day. Previously, 20 drops of tincture are diluted with 50 ml of water. Reception must be carried out 30 minutes before meals.
Fern root gruel
Inside, the plant is not consumed fresh. But it can be used as appliqués. The remedy copes well with the severity and pain of varicose veins. The recipe is as follows:
- The root is thoroughly crushed in any way possible.
- Sour milk is added to the resulting powder in a ratio of 1/1.
- The gruel is applied to the venous dilatation sites with a thick layer.
- Gauze is applied on top and fixed with a sterile bandage.
- After 6 hours, the bandage is removed.
Bath decoction
Fern broth is taken orally and added to baths. The second case is relevant in the presence of rheumatism, dermatitis, hemorrhoids and convulsions. The process of preparing the broth is as follows:
- 50 g of dried fern roots are poured into 1 liter of water.
- The composition is boiled for 2 hours over low heat.
- Strain the broth before adding it to the bath.
- The duration of the bath is half an hour.
Fern infusion
The medicinal infusion is prescribed for women in order to treat adnexitis. A single dosage is 20 ml. The full course of treatment is 30 days. It does not exclude the need for drug therapy. The infusion is prepared as follows:
- 1 tbsp. l. crushed leaves are poured with a glass of hot water.
- Within 15 minutes, the remedy is brought to readiness in a water bath.
- The infusion is filtered and left to cool.
Limitations and contraindications
Useful properties are not all that fern is known for. Under certain circumstances, it can have a negative effect on the human body.This is due to the content of toxic substances. Particular vigilance before using the plant should be shown to pregnant and lactating women. It is equally important to observe the dosage of the drug and not exceed the permissible duration of admission. With prolonged use, alkaloids will accumulate in the body, which is fraught with health complications. Absolute contraindications include:
- tuberculosis;
- peptic ulcer;
- liver and kidney diseases.
If used correctly, the plant will only have beneficial effects. Violation of the principle of application leads to the development of side effects. Among them, the following are distinguished:
- nausea;
- headache;
- dizziness;
- convulsions;
- vomiting.
If side effects occur, it is necessary to stop using the drug and empty the stomach from it. For these purposes, you should drink as much water as possible. If you feel worse, you need to see a doctor.
Conclusion
Fern is useful not only in the treatment of serious diseases, but also in prevention. It helps to stop the existing symptoms without exerting a systemic effect on the body. In order for the beneficial properties of the plant to reveal themselves to the proper extent, it is important to follow the recommendations of specialists.
