• Explores more than 500 species of ferns, alongside full-color photos
• Examines the Indigenous and folk uses of ferns for food and medicine throughout history
• Explains in detail the scientific research behind the potency of fern chemicals to heal many human conditions
Used for millennia by Indigenous people for food and medicine, ferns are now being recognized by modern science for their unique medicinal potential against antibiotic-resistant bacteria, cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and liver, kidney, and respiratory conditions.
In this full-color illustrated encyclopedia, Robert Dale Rogers, RH(AHG), explores more than 500 species of ferns, detailing their traditional Indigenous and folk uses in North America, Europe, and Asia; their mythology, chemistry, pharmacology, and healing applications; and observations from naturalists from the 18th century through today. He examines ferns’ unique botany as nonflowering seedless plants, including their relationship with mycorrhizal fungi, their propagation via spores, and their ancient past as colossal trees.
Interpreting modern research on the chemistry of ferns, including in vitro and in vivo studies of their compounds and secondary metabolites, Rogers explores their chemical constituents, detailing each fern chemical’s healing properties, from easing congestion and anxiety to treating infertility to fighting bacterial infections. He reveals how pharmacological researchers are now frequently rediscovering the ancient wisdom of ferns long known by Indigenous peoples, such as how Hammock Fern (Blechnum occidentale) was traditionally used in Brazil for pulmonary ailments, inflammation, and urinary tract and liver infections.
Featuring photographs by Alan Rockefeller and Drew Henderson, this book reveals the healing benefits as well as the beauty of ferns.