Walking Fern

(Tailed Maidenhair Fern)
Sanskrit: मयूरशिखा • Botanical: Adiantum caudatum Linn.

Adiantum caudatum is found in all warm areas with moist conditions. The fronds are drooping and pinnate. It is used for hair problems and cough. The fern has characteristic black, wiry stipes. Also used as an expectorant. Found at 8-18 inches length. Dose: Kvatha. Verse: 289.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Astringent (Kashaya), Sweet (Madhura)
Quality (Guna)
Light (Laghu), Unctuous (Snigdha)
Potency (Virya)
Cold (Sheeta)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Sweet (Madhura)
Key Constituents
Tannins, Adiantone, Flavonoids
Also Known As
English: Tailed Maidenhair Fern, Walking Fern
Sanskrit: मयूरशिखा, नीलपत्रा
Hindi: हंसपदी, मयूरशिखा

What is Walking Fern (Mayurshikha 2 / मयूरशिखा २)?

Adiantum caudatum is found in all warm areas with moist conditions. The fronds are drooping and pinnate. It is used for hair problems and cough. The fern has characteristic black, wiry stipes. Also used as an expectorant. Found at 8-18 inches length. Dose: Kvatha. Verse: 289.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Keshya (hair tonic)
  • Mutrala (diuretic)
  • Kasahara (alleviates cough)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Ayurvedic treatments should be pursued under the guidance of a qualified practitioner (BAMS/MD Ayurveda). Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Content is sourced from classical Ayurvedic texts and may not reflect the latest medical research.