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The polypody ferns (Polypodium spp.) used to include maidenhair (next month’s feature plant), lady fern and wood ferns amoung other ferns. But the family has been narrowed down to 31 polypody species presently (2024).
Rock polypody (Polypodium virginianum) is the most prevalent in Ontario, Canada by far. It’s common on rocky banks and rocky outcrops in woods. But wood ferns can grow in those spots too, so ID-ing can be tricky as a beginner. Around Haliburton, you may also find Appalachian rockcap fern (Polypodium appalachianum). There are a few rarer polypodies to be found in Ontario, including some nonnatives.
Unfortunately, I don’t have much information on the edibility or medicinal uses of our native polypodies.
Edible Uses of Common Polypody
Across the pond, Common polypody (P. vulgare) roots are edible in moderation. These bitter sweet roots are used mostly for flavouring in cooking. In foraging circles, I haven’t found anyone eating North American polypody species.
In various areas of the world, different polypodium species have been cooked as a potherb or used in soups. If you find an edible species, as with most ferns moderation is recommended. Most ferns block vitamin B absorption and have some degree of carcinogens.
As ferns go, I personally only eat ostrich fern.
Medicinal Uses of Common Polypody
Common polypody is primarily said to support these body systems:
- Digestive
- Respiratory
Medicinal tags include Alterative, Anthelmintic, Cholagogue, Demulcent, Diuretic, Expectorant, Laxative and Purgative. See Medicinal tag key for more information.
Common usage includes the fronds used to make a mucilaginous decoction for a dry cough – that is, at least with Common polypody (Polypodium vulgare) the European/Asian species is featured in my herbal library. It’s also been used for some digestive system issues including loss of appetite.
Like many ferns, P. vulgare has been used to purge worms with an apparent specialty to taenia (tapeworm) worms. There are gentler modern medicines for worm treatments.
Growing Polypodium SPP.
Polypody like well drained soil and shady spots. Haliburtons tendency toward acidic soil helps it thrive too. It works great in rock gardens and can be used as a ground cover. Getting it to grow on your rocky outcrops and on any shaded boulders makes a gorgeous sight. It may even grow up a tree trunk. In a flower bed it’s nice with favourites like bunchberry and Canada mayflower.
There are some insects who eat and even host on ferns.
WARNINGS
Can cause skin irritation.
And the Usual Cautions:
1) Most medicinal herbs, if edible, are meant to be eaten in moderation, even sparingly. Some require extra preparation. Tannins are toxic if consumed in excess. Before taking any new supplements, you should consult with a healthcare professional.
2) People can be allergic or sensitive to nearly any plant; try new herbs one at a time at your own risk. For instance, saponins commonly cause stomach upset.
3) For serious medicinal use, I must recommend receiving a diagnosis and working with a reputed health care provider. I generally do not post specific treatments and dosages because I think that is best between you and your health care provider, and ideally monitored.
4) Anyone pregnant, nursing, or taking prescription drugs should talk to a health care professional before adding new food items to their diet.
5) Many plants have look-a-likes, and sometimes they are poisonous.
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REFERENCES
https://data.canadensys.net/vascan/taxon/1579
https://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/grasses/plants/cm_polypody.htm
100 Easy-to-Grow Native Plants for Canadian Gardens
Indian Herbalogy of North America: The Definitive Guide to Native Medicinal Plants and Their Uses
The Herb Book: The Most Complete Catalog of Herbs Ever Published (Dover Cookbooks)
Illustrated Encyclopedia of Herbs
Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine: 550 Herbs and Remedies for Common Ailments