Adiantum capillus-veneris, Southern maidenhair fern, Venus maidenhair, Venus hair-fern

Adiantum capillus-veneris is found in wet shady areas in Europe, occurring in much of western and southern Europe on damp calcareous rocks. It generally occurs in warmer regions of the Old World, from Europe to China. It is found in the southern half of the United States from the Carolinas to California. The leaves and stems have been used in tea for cough, throat infections, and bronchitis. Dark stems used as hair wash. Venus maidenhair fern is a plant with important traditional and modern uses in India, western and eastern Asia. Pharmacological effects include anticonvulsant, antispasmodic, diuretic, anti-hairloss, anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. The specific name, "capillus-veneris," according to Pliny, refers to the traditional use of strengthening and embellishing hair. The English term, Maidenhair, has a similar meaning. Famous in French pharmacy, Sirop de Capillaire, flavored with orange flowers, was a popular remedy for coughs, throat affections and bronchial disorders. Freely diluted with water, it was given as a beverage to invalids, and taken in small and repeated doses, it frequently relieved the tightness and intensity of chronic coughs.

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