[Tanya Marie Squirrel]

Maiden Hair Fern (extract)

main interest: Galactagogue (milk enhancer)
http://www.herbs2000.com/herbs/herbs_maidenhair_fern.htm
Uses

The remedies made from the maidenhair fern are still used and prescribed by many Western herbalists. Such remedies are used in treating coughs, in the treatment of bronchitis, in reducing excess mucus, and in alleviating sore throat, as well as chronic nasal congestion affecting the person. The remedies made from maidenhair fern also possess enduring value for hair and scalp conditions.

Freshly obtained or dried up leafy fronds of maidenhair fern possess astringent, anti-tussive, anti-dandruff, demulcent, emetic, depurative (purifying), emollient, feebly emmenagogue, febrifuge, feeble expectorant, laxative, galactogogue, stimulant, pectoral tonic, refrigerant and sudorific (diaphoretic or causing perspiration) properties. A tea or syrup prepared with the fronds of this fern is employed for treating coughs, bronchitis and throat problems. In addition, this syrup or tea is also utilized to detoxify the body in the case of alcoholism as well as to force out worms from the body. It is also used topically in the form of a poultice that is put on places affected by bee stings, snake bites and others. People in Nepal prepare a paste from the maidenhair fern fronds and apply it to their forehead to alleviate headaches as well as to the chest to get respite from chest pains. Ideally, the herb should be used when it is fresh, although it may also be harvested during the summer and dried out for use when necessary.
Perhaps, this is the "mediterranian fern extract " that breast enhancement crèam was referring to? they do not (to my knowledge), accurately list the genus/type of fern it is" perhaps due to proprietary info.more research needed

other collaborating info :
http://theherbalfarm.blogspot.com/2008/01/maidenhair-fern.html

other types of fern/uses and info:
http://www.nathanielwhitmore.com/ferns.html