What to know about Scolopendrium vulgare (hart's tongue) before using it medicinally

Scolopendrium vulgare, commonly known as hart's tongue, is a medicinal herb that has been prized for its ability to soothe and heal the body, improving respiratory and digestive health through its expectorant and antispasmodic properties.

This versatile herb is also highly prized by gardeners and horticulturalists for its unique, deeply lobed leaves and ability to thrive in damp, shady conditions, making it a popular choice for woodland gardens and rockeries. From a botanical perspective, Scolopendrium vulgare is a member of the fern family, characterized by its distinctive, tongue-shaped fronds and ability to tolerate a range of acidic soil conditions.

The herb has been used in traditional medicine for centuries, with historical references dating back to the writings of medieval herbalists such as Gerard and Culpeper.

This article explains the medicinal, horticultural, botanical, and historical aspects of Scolopendrium vulgare .

What are the medicinal properties of Scolopendrium vulgare ?

Scolopendrium vulgare helps with wound healing, skin irritations, and respiratory issues due to its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. It has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for centuries.

The active constituents responsible for its medicinal properties include flavonoids, saponins, and phenolic acids. These compounds exhibit analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antispasmodic activities, which contribute to its therapeutic effects.

The leaves, stems, and roots of the plant are used for medicinal purposes. The leaves contain the highest concentration of active compounds and are often used fresh or dried. The stems and roots are also used, although in smaller quantities.

Improper use of Scolopendrium vulgare can lead to side effects such as allergic reactions, digestive issues, and interactions with other medications. Overconsumption of the plant can also cause liver and kidney damage.

When using Scolopendrium vulgare medicinally, it is essential to follow standard precautions. This includes proper identification of the plant, dosing according to recommended guidelines, and avoiding use in pregnancy, breastfeeding, or in combination with other medications.

What are the horticulural aspects of Scolopendrium vulgare ?

Scolopendrium vulgare grow best in moist, shaded environments with high humidity. It thrives in areas with alkaline to neutral soils with a pH range of 6.0-8.0 and temperatures between 40°F to 70°F (4°C to 21°C).

Plant Scolopendrium vulgare in spring or fall, when the soil is cool, to prevent summer stress. Dig a shallow hole, twice the size of the plant's rhizome, and gently spread the roots. Water thoroughly and mulch around the base to retain moisture.

Harvest Scolopendrium vulgare fronds in spring and early summer, when they reach 6-12 inches (15-30 cm) in height. Cut the fronds at the base with a sharp knife or pruning tool, leaving the rhizome intact. New growth will emerge from the center.

Pests and diseases affecting Scolopendrium vulgare include slugs, snails, and scale. Fungal infections such as root rot and leaf spot can occur in moist environments. Regular monitoring and proper care can help prevent these issues.

What are the botanical aspects of Scolopendrium vulgare ?

Scolopendrium vulgare is a perennial fern that belongs to the family Polypodiaceae. It has a thick, leathery rhizome and erect, sterile strobili that are 10-20 cm long, bearing 5-10 pairs of leafy branches. The leaves are 1-2 cm long, ovate, and deeply lobed.

The taxonomical classification of Scolopendrium vulgare is as follows: Kingdom: Plantae, Division: Polypodiophyta, Class: Polypodiopsida, Order: Polypodiales, Family: Polypodiaceae, Genus: Scolopendrium, Species: S. vulgare. The genus Scolopendrium is characterized by its erect strobili and leafy branches.

There are three recognized variants of Scolopendrium vulgare: S. vulgare var. vulgare, S. vulgare var. minor, and S. vulgare var. stenophyllum. These variants differ in leaf size, number of leaf pairs, and strobilus length. S. vulgare var. minor has smaller leaves and shorter strobili, while S. vulgare var. stenophyllum has narrower leaves.

Scolopendrium vulgare is native to Europe, western Asia, and northwestern Africa. It is found in shaded, moist areas, such as forests, woodlands, and rocky outcrops, at elevations up to 1,800 meters. It is also naturalized in other parts of the world, including North America and Australia.

The life cycle of Scolopendrium vulgare is as follows: the plant grows from a rhizome in spring, produces sterile strobili in summer, and reproduces by spores in late summer. The rhizome overwinters and regenerates new growth in the following spring. The plant may live for several years, but typically only produces new fronds and strobili for a few years.

What are the historical aspects of Scolopendrium vulgare ?

Scolopendrium vulgare is a fern species that has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. It was employed to treat a range of ailments, including fever, rheumatism, and respiratory issues. In some regions, it was also used as a food source.

In Celtic and Druidic mythology, hart's tongue was associated with the god Cernunnos, a symbol of fertility and rebirth. The plant was also linked to the goddess Epona, who was revered for her connection to horses and fertility. These associations suggest a deep respect for the plant's powers.

Hart's tongue is often depicted as a symbol of longevity and rejuvenation in art and literature. It is sometimes paired with other plants to represent the cycle of life and death. This symbolic meaning is reflected in its use in medieval bestiaries, where it is described as a "fountain of youth".

The earliest recorded reference to hart's tongue is found in the Greek herbal De Materia Medica, written by Dioscorides in the 1st century AD. The text describes the plant's medicinal properties and provides instructions for its use. A similar text, the Medicinal Herbs of Galen, also mentions the plant.

Hart's tongue has been featured in various works of art throughout history. A 12th-century illuminated manuscript, the Lindisfarne Gospels, depicts the plant alongside other flora and fauna. Similarly, the 15th-century Très Riches Heures du Duc de Berry, a book of hours, includes an illustration of the plant.