Herbier des Anciens — Detailed MonographFR · EN
Hart's-tongue Fern
Asplenium scolopendrium
Read before use: the information below describes traditional and educational uses — it does not replace the advice of a healthcare professional. In case of doubt, pregnancy, breastfeeding, ongoing treatment, or use in children, seek advice before use.
Enhanced precautions for this plant: Avoid prolonged use without advice from a healthcare professional, as ferns in general may present toxicity if improperly prepared or consumed in excess. Use not recommended in pregnant or breastfeeding women, as well as in young children, due to insufficient safety data. Do not confuse with other spore-bearing ferns, some of which are frankly toxic; ensure exact botanical identification before any foraging. In case of ongoing medication, seek advice from a healthcare professional before any internal use.
Decoction — Frond (leaf)
Dried frond decoction
Gently boil a small quantity of dried fronds in water for about ten minutes, then strain. This traditional preparation was consumed in small amounts, over short periods. Dosage must be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.
Compress — Frond (leaf)
Soothing compress
Soak a clean cloth in cooled decoction and apply to the affected area for a few minutes. Repeat if needed, avoiding broken or very sensitive skin. Dosage must be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.
Where to find it
Obtaining the plant
Hart's-tongue fern is found in the wild in cool, shaded, and limestone locations, particularly in crevices of old walls and wooded ravines; it can also be found dried at certain specialized herbalists.
Harvest season
When to harvest it
Fronds are traditionally harvested in spring and summer, when they are well developed and still tender.
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