Adiantum capillus-veneris Linn. (Maidenhair fern) in modern phytotherapy

Background and objectives: Maidenhair fern is an herbal medicine belonging to the family Pteridaceae which is extensively found in Atlantic coast as far as Ireland, America and Iran. The fronds of Adiantum capillus-veneris are prescribed for treatment of different diseases. Different phytochemical compositions such as flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, terpenoids, etc. have been found in this species. Due to the various phyto-compositions, the plant has been investigated for its pharmacological properties. Methods: Databases were searched for “Adiantum capillus-veneris”, “Maidenhair fern” without limitation up to 2016. Data on the herb were collected via electronic databases including Web of science, PubMed, Scopus, SID (for Persian papers), Science direct and Cochrane Library. Results: Maidenhair fern revealed to possess numerous pharmacological effects such as anti-diabetic, analgesic, hypocholesterolemic, goitrogenic, anti-thyroidal, antibacterial effects, etc. in modern medicine. Conclusion: Maidenhair fern grows in many places. Because of different phytoconstituents of the species, many pharmacological effects are ascribed to the plant. So, the herb can be a good choice for clinical studies.