Black Maidenhair

Adiantum capillus-veneris

Adiantum capillus-veneris, commonly known as maidenhair fern, originates from traditional medicine practices but has not been traditionally used for specific ailments. Scientific studies have shown potential for its use in wound healing and anti-inflammatory activity, particularly when combined with visible light phototherapy; however, the evidence is preliminary and more research is needed to confirm these findings. In a study involving an herbal formulation containing Adiantum capillus-veneris, it was found to be as effective as nitrofurantoin in treating uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs) without any reported adverse effects. Additionally, the fern demonstrated high removal rates for various pollution factors in vegetation filter strips. Safety concerns are minimal based on current data; no major issues or drug interactions have been recorded.

At a glance
Best evidence
B
Cautions

Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.

What the science says

  • The study found that Adiantum capillus-veneris showed high removal rates for various pollutants in vegetation filter strips. D PMID
  • ACVM showed potential for wound healing and anti-inflammatory activity, especially when combined with visible light phototherapy, though phototoxicity was observed at higher concentrations. D PMID
  • The study used chemometrics and HPLC profiling to optimize polyphenol recovery from Adiantum capillus-veneris, but no specific health effect was found. D PMID
  • The herbal formulation containing Adiantum capillus-veneris was as effective as nitrofurantoin in treating UTIs, with no adverse effects and improved HRQoL. B PMID

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 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

  1. T2 A Randomized Comparative Study of Luteolin-Based Herbal Unani Formulations versus Nitrofurantoin in Women with Uncomplicated Urinary Tract Infections. literature abstract metadata
  2. 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
  3. T2 Wound healing and photodynamic potential of Adiantum capillus-veneris L. (Pteridaceae): an evaluation of the cellular effects and molecular insights. literature abstract metadata
  4. T2 Application of vegetation restoration technology in ecological restoration of urban water pollution. literature abstract metadata