The Blechnum ferns are found around the world with approximately 200 species. They range from regular herbaceous fern species to larger tree ferns.
Some species in this genus are ornamentals, others are used as food or medicine sources. The Swamp Water Fern (Blechnum indicum) is one example of a species used as a staple bush food.
The Aboriginal people of Australia have used the Swamp Water Fern and other Blechnum species as a bush food by harvesting the roots and eating them raw or roasted in the warm seasons. The flavor of the roots is reportedly like a waxy but more gelatinous potato…if you can imagine that!
The use of these ferns as foods around the world is similar in many cultures, and some would only eat them as a “famine food”—in other words, when there were few other options. In some areas they were staples, such as in Australia.
As many other fern species, the young fronds of some Blechnum were also cooked and eaten, or peeled and the center portion eaten.
Blechnum species are also being studied for their use in phytoremediation by absorbing hazardous pollutants.
Blechnum orientale is a species with historical medicinal use, being used for skin conditions, impotence, antiviral, anthelmintic, stomach & bladder complaints, and sterilization of women.
In pharmacological studies, it has also been found to possess antimicrobial activity with the potential for treatment of MRSA infection, cancer therapy, and also as an antioxidant agent.
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**This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice or to take the place of such advice or treatment from a personal physician.