Black Maidenhair
Adiantum capillus-veneris
Adiantum capillus-veneris is a fern species utilized across various traditional medicine systems. It is historically applied for bladder complaints, respiratory issues like cough and asthma, and as an emollient or diuretic. Scientific evidence regarding human health is limited, though some studies suggest potential for wound healing and anti-inflammatory activity, noting possible phototoxicity at high concentrations. One study indicated an herbal formulation containing this plant may be as effective as nitrofurantoin for urinary tract infections. No major safety issues or notable drug interactions are currently recorded.
- Traditionally for
- catarrh · pectoral
- Traditions
- Unani · Ayurveda · traditional
- Best evidence
- B
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
Traditional use
- catarrh
- pectoral
- diuretic
- expectorant
- astringent
- chest complaints
- cold
- cough
- demulcent
- emollient
- stimulant
- sudorific
- alopecia
- asthma
- bladder complaints
What the science says
- The study found that Adiantum capillus-veneris showed high removal rates for various pollutants in vegetation filter strips.
- ACVM showed potential for wound healing and anti-inflammatory activity, especially when combined with visible light phototherapy, though phototoxicity was observed at higher concentrations.
- The study used chemometrics and HPLC profiling to optimize polyphenol recovery from Adiantum capillus-veneris, but no specific health effect was found.
- The herbal formulation containing Adiantum capillus-veneris was as effective as nitrofurantoin in treating UTIs, with no adverse effects and improved HRQoL.
Frequently asked questions
What is Black Maidenhair?
Black Maidenhair (Adiantum capillus-veneris) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What is Black Maidenhair traditionally used for?
Traditional sources record Black Maidenhair for: catarrh, pectoral, diuretic, expectorant, astringent, chest complaints. This reflects traditional use, not a proven medical treatment.
Which traditions use Black Maidenhair?
Black Maidenhair appears in these traditions in our sources: Unani, Ayurveda, traditional.
What does the scientific evidence say about Black Maidenhair?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Black Maidenhair; the strongest carries evidence grade B. For example: The study found that Adiantum capillus-veneris showed high removal rates for various pollutants in vegetation filter strips.
How strong is the evidence for Black Maidenhair?
The strongest finding for Black Maidenhair carries evidence grade B — moderate evidence. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Black Maidenhair safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Black Maidenhair in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Black Maidenhair interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Black Maidenhair in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Black Maidenhair?
Black Maidenhair is also known as: Адиантум венерин волос, Capillaire de Montpellier.
Is Black Maidenhair a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T3 Dr. Duke's Ethnobotanical Database public domain (USDA ARS — attribute Dr. Duke's)
- T2 A Randomized Comparative Study of Luteolin-Based Herbal Unani Formulations versus Nitrofurantoin in Women with Uncomplicated Urinary Tract Infections. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Data-Driven Optimization of Polyphenol Recovery and Antioxidant Capacity from Medicinal Herbs Using Chemometrics and HPLC Profiling for Functional Food Applications. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Wound healing and photodynamic potential of Adiantum capillus-veneris L. (Pteridaceae): an evaluation of the cellular effects and molecular insights. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Application of vegetation restoration technology in ecological restoration of urban water pollution. literature abstract metadata