10 Possible Side Effects Of Polypodium Vulgare (Maidenhair Fern)

Polypodium vulgare has some side effects when used improperly, such as gastrointestinal issues, allergic reactions, and interactions with medications.

Causes of these side effects include excessive dosage, individual sensitivity, and underlying health conditions.

For instance, if someone with a pre-existing liver condition takes Polypodium vulgare, it can lead to worsened liver damage, impacting their quality of life and ability to perform daily tasks.

This article explains in details the 10 most common side effects of Polypodium vulgare if used imporperly.

1. Worsens kidney function

Polypodium vulgare causes allergic reactions in some individuals.

This is due to the presence of a group of compounds called flavonoids and sesquiterpenes, which are responsible for its therapeutic properties but can also trigger an immune response in susceptible people.

The severity of the reaction varies from mild symptoms such as skin irritation and itching to more severe reactions including hives and difficulty breathing.

2. Worsens kidney function

3. Worsens kidney function

Polypodium vulgare induces drowsiness suddenly due to its sedative properties and ability to interact with the body's nervous system.

The plant contains various compounds that can affect neurotransmitters, leading to feelings of relaxation and sleepiness. Additionally, its calming effects on the muscles may contribute to a sense of heaviness, making it difficult to stay awake.

This drowsy sensation can occur rapidly after ingesting or inhaling Polypodium vulgare, which may be unexpected for some users.

4. Worsens kidney function

Polypodium vulgare increases risk of bleeding when used due to its ability to interact with blood-thinning medications and alter platelet function.

The herb's compounds may inhibit platelet aggregation, leading to prolonged bleeding times and increased risk of hemorrhage.

Additionally, the fern's high content of coumarins, a class of compounds known to affect blood clotting, may further contribute to this increased risk.

5. Worsens kidney function

Polypodium vulgare activates nausea severely due to its high content of alkaloids and glycosides, which can cause stomach upset and vomiting.

The plant's bioactive compounds may also irritate the digestive tract, leading to discomfort and queasiness in some individuals.

This reaction is thought to be caused by the plant's ability to alter gut flora and disrupt normal digestive function.

6. Worsens kidney function

Polypodium vulgare stimulates headache intensely.

This side effect is attributed to the presence of furanocoumarins, a class of compounds found in the plant that can interact with certain medications and alter their metabolism, leading to increased sensitivity to pain stimuli in some individuals.

As a result, users may experience intense headaches, which can be debilitating if left unchecked.

7. Worsens kidney function

Polypodium vulgare causes stomach upset greatly.

This is due to its ability to interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners and diabetes medications, by altering their absorption and effectiveness in the body.

Additionally, Polypodium vulgare contains compounds that can stimulate digestive processes, leading to increased secretion of stomach acid and potentially causing discomfort, bloating, and nausea.

8. Worsens kidney function

Polypodium vulgare weakens immune system further by suppressing the activity of certain white blood cells.

This is due to its saponin content, which has been shown to inhibit the production of cytokines that stimulate the immune response.

Additionally, Polypodium vulgare's anti-inflammatory properties may also contribute to its immunosuppressive effects, potentially allowing underlying infections or conditions to worsen.

9. Worsens kidney function

Polypodium vulgare enhances respiratory problems by releasing airborne allergens and triggering an allergic response in susceptible individuals.

The plant's spores can exacerbate conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), causing coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.

Additionally, the fern's volatile organic compounds can irritate the airways, further compromising respiratory function.

10. Worsens kidney function

Polypodium vulgare aggravates skin irritations.

This is due to its ability to stimulate the skin's natural oil production, leading to an increase in sebum and potentially clogging pores. Additionally, some people may be allergic to certain compounds found in the plant, such as sap or resin, which can cause an adverse reaction on the skin.

These reactions can range from mild redness and itchiness to more severe inflammation and rashes.