Drynaria Quercifolia

Dr.N.K.MANOHARAN

Drynaria quercifolia, commonly known as oak-leaf fern, is an epiphytic fern found in the tropics. It is widely grown throughout Southeast Asia, including India, Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines. This fern is known for its distinctive stems that resemble oak leaves. Its scientific name is Drynaria quercifolia.  In our country, it is known as Tuthimpalakanal, Marayolapannal, Kottapannal, Okilapannal, Konga, Pannipacha, and Crown pannal. It is known by many names. It is used as medicine in traditional medicine and Ayurveda. It is a plant commonly found in India, Southeast Asia, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines, New Guinea and Australia. It has deeply divided pinnate leaves, but the leaves on the side of the nest resemble acorns. From it comes the name Okilapannal or Oak Leaf Fern. Drynaria quercifolia, commonly known as oak-leaf fern or basket fern, is a species of epiphytic fern in the family Polypodiaceae. Now we will see what are its characteristics, habitat and uses. The stems of this plant i.e. Drynaria quercifolia are dimorphic, meaning they come in two forms. Fertile stems are large, deeply lobed, and oak-leaf shaped, while sterile stems are short, rounded, and form a basket-like structure at the base. A characteristic feature of this plant is its hairy rhizomes. These rhizomes help the plant to stick to the bark of trees or other surfaces. Fertile stems can be up to 90 cm long. Drynaria quercifolia is an epiphyte, meaning it grows on other plants, most commonly trees, but it is not parasitic. It also grows by drawing nutrients from the air and sediments that accumulate around it.  The plant is native to tropical regions of Asia, including India, China, Southeast Asia, and parts of Australia. It thrives well in moist and shady environments such as rainforests and moist and shady woodlands. It seems that this area you are seeing is also like that. Here this plant grows on oil palms. It seems to be a plantation owned by the government. Now let's see how it is cultivated and protected. This plant prefers bright, indirect light or partial shade. Direct sunlight can burn its stems. Moisten the substrate regularly

Watering is necessary, but do not stand water. Prefers warm temperatures typical of tropical climates. This plant should be protected from extreme cold during winter. Drynaria quercifolia is popular as an ornamental plant due to its attractive stems and epiphytic nature. It is often attached to hanging baskets, bark, or tree trunks. In some countries, parts of this plant are used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including bone fractures and arthritis, although scientific evidence to support these uses is limited. Interesting facts about this plant The basket-like structure formed by its sterile stems helps it collect organic debris, which decomposes and provides nutrients to the plant. This creates a microhabitat for small organisms, which helps the plant's nutrient supply. Likewise, Drainaria quercifolia can be easily propagated by seeds or rhizome division. Its rhizomes are thick, covered with brown hairs, prefer moist and shady environments, and usually grow on trees or rocks.

Drynaria quercifolia is used in traditional medicine, especially in Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine. Its rhizomes are the primary part used for medicinal purposes. In traditional Chinese medicine, the rhizome is used to treat bone fractures and promote bone healing. It is believed to stimulate osteoblast activity and aid in bone formation and repair. Also this plant is used to control osteoporosis oil by improving bone density. Moreover, its rhizome extract has anti-inflammatory effects, making it useful in treating conditions like arthritis and other inflammatory diseases. Compounds in Drynaria quercifolia exhibit antioxidant properties that help protect cells from oxidative stress and damage. The plant is traditionally applied to wounds to promote healing and prevent infection. Extracts from the plant show antimicrobial activity against various pathogens including bacteria and fungi. It is also used to treat respiratory ailments like cough, cold and asthma. Its rhizome is used to treat digestive problems like diarrhoea and dysentery. Drynaria quercifolia contains various bioactive compounds, especially flavonoids, tannins, and terpenoids, which are anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial, as well as phenolic compounds.  Its rhizome is often boiled to make a decoction for internal use or external application. The dried rhizome can be ground into a powder and used in capsules or mixed with other ingredients. A paste or powder made from the rhizome is applied to wounds or fractures. The correct dose should be determined by a healthcare provider, especially as higher doses may cause adverse effects.

It is best not to use Drynaria quercifolia during pregnancy and breastfeeding because studies on that route are yet to be done, so it should be used with caution. As with any herbal medicine, there is a possibility of allergic reactions. A patch should be tested for local applications.  Drynaria quercifolia is a fern with considerable medicinal value, especially for bone health and its anti-inflammatory properties. Its traditional uses and modern research support its role in treating various ailments. However, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider before using as a remedy to ensure safety and effectiveness