All-Grass of Chinese Brake (Feng Wei Cao)

All-Grass of Chinese Brake (Pteris multifida), commonly known as Feng Wei Cao (凤尾草) in Chinese, is a type of brake fern native to China and other parts of Asia. It has been used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for various health benefits.

Botanical & Traditional Use

• Scientific Name: Pteris multifida
• Family: Pteridaceae
• Common Names: Chinese Brake Fern, Feng Wei Cao (凤尾草)
• Habitat: Found in forests, hillsides, and damp areas across China, Japan, and Southeast Asia.

Medicinal Properties & Uses in TCM

In traditional Chinese medicine, Feng Wei Cao is used for:
✅ Detoxification – Helps remove toxins from the body.
✅ Cooling effect – Used for fevers and heat-related ailments.
✅ Diuretic properties – Supports kidney function and reduces water retention.
✅ Anti-inflammatory – Used to treat wounds, swelling, and infections.
✅ Lung health – Sometimes used for coughs, bronchitis, and respiratory issues.
✅ Hemostasis (Stops bleeding) – Applied for minor cuts and excessive menstrual bleeding.

Preparation & Usage

• Decoction: Boiled in water for internal use.
• Poultice: Crushed leaves applied externally for wounds.
• Tea: Dried herb steeped in hot water.

Precautions

• Should be used under the guidance of a professional, especially for pregnant women or individuals with chronic conditions.
• Some ferns contain thiaminase, which can break down vitamin B1, so long-term excessive use is not recommended.

Chemical Composition of Feng Wei Cao (Pteris multifida)

Chinese Brake Fern contains various bioactive compounds that contribute to its medicinal properties:

🔹 Flavonoids – Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects
🔹 Terpenoids – Anti-microbial and immune-boosting properties
🔹 Phenolic Compounds – Help with detoxification and free radical removal
🔹 Saponins – Support immune function and may help with respiratory issues
🔹 Tannins – Astringent effects, aiding wound healing and stopping bleeding
🔹 Polysaccharides – Enhance immune regulation and energy metabolism

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Traditional Recipes & Preparations

1. Feng Wei Cao Detox Tea (For General Health & Cooling Effect)

✅ Ingredients:

• 10g dried Pteris multifida
• 500ml water
• Optional: Honey or rock sugar for taste

🔹 Preparation:

1. Rinse the dried herb to remove any dust.
2. Boil in water for 10–15 minutes.
3. Strain and drink warm.

🔹 Benefits:

• Helps detoxify the body
• Reduces internal heat (good for fever, sore throat)
• Supports urinary health

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2. Anti-Inflammatory & Wound-Healing Poultice

✅ Ingredients:

• Fresh Pteris multifida leaves
• A few drops of clean water or honey (optional)

🔹 Preparation:

1. Crush the fresh leaves into a paste.
2. Apply directly to wounds, bruises, or inflamed areas.
3. Cover with clean gauze and leave for a few hours.

🔹 Benefits:

• Helps stop minor bleeding
• Reduces inflammation and swelling
• Aids wound healing

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3. Feng Wei Cao Soup for Lung & Kidney Support

✅ Ingredients:

• 15g dried Pteris multifida
• 1 piece lean pork or chicken (about 100g)
• 3–5 red dates
• 1 piece ginger (optional)
• 1L water
• Salt to taste

🔹 Preparation:

1. Rinse the herb and ingredients.
2. Place everything in a pot with water and bring to a boil.
3. Simmer for 1–2 hours.
4. Strain and drink the soup while warm.

🔹 Benefits:

• Strengthens lung function (useful for coughs or respiratory weakness)
• Nourishes the kidneys
• Improves immunity

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Precautions & Side Effects

⚠ Not for long-term excessive use – May affect vitamin B1 levels due to thiaminase content.
⚠ Avoid during pregnancy – Limited research on safety for pregnant women.
⚠ Use with caution if allergic to ferns – May cause mild reactions in sensitive individuals.
⚠ Consult a doctor if on medication – Especially for blood thinners or kidney-related conditions.