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Common Polypody (Polypodium vulgare)

Botanical Information

  • Family: Polypodiaceae
  • Common Names: Common Polypody, Rock Brake, Sweet Fern, Wall Fern
  • Parts Used: Rhizome

Description

Polypodium vulgare, commonly known as Common Polypody, is a small fern that grows on rocky surfaces, trees, and shaded woodland areas across Europe and North America. The rhizome has been traditionally used for its expectorant, laxative, and anti-inflammatory properties, making it useful in respiratory and digestive conditions.

Historical and Traditional Uses

  • Used in Traditional European Herbal Medicine as an expectorant for coughs and lung congestion.
  • Traditionally employed as a gentle laxative to support digestion.
  • Applied externally for wounds, skin inflammation, and minor infections.
  • Used in folk medicine as a mild adaptogen to help the body cope with stress.

Constituents

  • Saponins
  • Flavonoids
  • Tannins
  • Essential oils
  • Glycosides (polypodoside A)

Actions

  • Expectorant
  • Laxative
  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Adaptogenic
  • Antimicrobial

Medicinal Uses

1. Respiratory Health:
Used as an expectorant to loosen mucus and relieve coughs, bronchitis, and mild respiratory infections.

2. Digestive Support:
Acts as a mild laxative to relieve constipation and promote bile flow.

3. Skin and Wound Healing:
Applied externally as a poultice or infused oil to reduce inflammation and support wound healing.

4. Stress and Fatigue Relief:
Traditionally considered a mild adaptogen to help the body manage stress and fatigue.

5. Liver and Detoxification Support:
Used historically to promote liver function and detoxification processes.

Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea from Rhizome):

  • 1 tsp of dried rhizome per cup of hot water. Steep for 15 minutes. Drink up to twice daily.

Tincture:

  • 2-5 ml taken up to twice daily.

Poultice (Topical Use):

  • Crushed fresh rhizome applied to wounds or inflamed skin.

Precautions and Contraindications

  • Pregnancy and Lactation: Use with caution; consult a healthcare provider.
  • Excessive Use: May cause gastrointestinal discomfort or diarrhea in large doses.
  • Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may experience skin sensitivity or digestive upset.

Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

  • Traditional Western Herbalism: Cooling and moistening; supports lung and digestive health.
  • Traditional European Medicine: Used for lung, digestive, and skin conditions.
  • Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM): Not widely used, but aligns with herbs that clear phlegm and support detoxification.

Combinations

  • For Respiratory Support: Combine with mullein and thyme.
  • For Digestive Health: Combine with dandelion and ginger.
  • For Skin Healing: Combine with calendula and plantain.

Harvesting and Storage

  • Harvesting: Rhizomes are collected in autumn and dried for medicinal use.
  • Drying: Air dry in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
  • Storage: Store dried rhizomes in airtight containers away from moisture and heat.

Modern Research

Studies confirm Polypodium vulgare’s expectorant, anti-inflammatory, and mild adaptogenic properties, reinforcing its traditional applications.

Common Polypody remains a valuable herb in both traditional and modern herbal medicine, particularly for respiratory, digestive, and skin health.