Botanical Overview
Drynaria fortunei (family Polypodiaceae) is a traditional medicinal fern native to China, Taiwan, Japan, and parts of Southeast Asia. Commonly known as Fortune’s drynaria or Gu-sui-bu in Chinese medicine, the rhizome with rootlets is the part used medicinally. It is primarily employed for its effects on bone health and musculoskeletal system.
Energetics
This herb is considered warming and neutral in moisture energetics, with bitter and sweet tastes. It has a descending directionality and is tonifying in nature, focusing particularly on nourishing bone and blood energy.
Primary Actions
- Bone healing
- Anti-osteoporotic
- Anti-inflammatory
- Immunomodulatory
Indications
Western
- Bone fractures
- Osteoporosis
- Joint pain
- Inflammation
Syndromes
- Bone degeneration
- Immune deficiency related to bone healing
TCM
- Lower back pain
- Weak knees
- Bone fractures
- Poor healing
Syndromes
- Kidney yang deficiency
- Bone frailty
- Blood deficiency
Ayurveda
No well-supported indications documented.
Unani
No well-supported indications documented.
Constituents & Mechanisms
Drynaria fortunei contains flavonoids, phenolic compounds, polysaccharides, and phloroglucinol derivatives, which contribute to its pharmacological effects on bone metabolism and inflammation modulation.
Dosage & Preparations
- Decoction: 9-15 grams daily
- Powder: 3-6 grams daily
- Extract: 2-4 mL 1-3 times daily
Safety & Contraindications
This herb is generally considered safe when used in traditional dosages. It is contraindicated in pregnancy and lactation due to insufficient safety data. There are no widely reported toxicities, but allergic reactions may occur in sensitive individuals.
Astrological Correspondences
No well-established planetary or elemental rulers identified based on current authoritative sources.
Selected References
- Pharmacological effects and phytochemical constituents of Drynaria fortunei
- Pharmacopoeia of the People’s Republic of China, 2020
- Medicinal Plants of China, Chan K., 2005