Polypody Root

(Polypodium vulgare L., Polypodiaceae)

Also Called: Brake Root, Common Polypody, Oak Fern, Rock Polypody.

Description: Creeping rhizomes 5-10mm (0.2-0.4in) thick, slightly flattened, bearing remains of leaf bases embling small teeth. Leaves simply pinnate with stout lanceolate segments alternate and opposite; lower surface with prominent median nerves along which are arranged two series of orange to brown sori of spores. Taste of rhizome: sweet.

Part Used: Dried rhizome.

Habitat and Collection: Widespread throughout Europe; common in Britain in sheltered places on old walls, tree trunks, moist rocks, etc. Collected in autumn (always replant the growing apex of the rhizome) and dried either in the shade or in sunlight.

Constituents and Action: Sugar, resin and the substance (polypodine) stimulating bile secretion. Is an expectorant for bronchial catarrh, increases biliary secretion and has mild laxative action.

Usage: As a tisane (boil for 5 minutes a tablespoonful of finely chopped rhizome with 0.5 litre (1 pt) of water and allow to stand) for the treatment of bronchial catarrh and mild constipation. Alternatively the powdered rhizome, in 2g (0.07oz) doses, may be taken 2-4 times daily.