Hansapadi

(Maiden hair)
Sanskrit: हंसपदी • Botanical: Adiantum lunulatum Burm.

Hansapadi (Adiantum lunulatum) is a delicate fern, commonly called Maidenhair Fern. The fronds are the medicinal part. The plant grows in shady, moist areas on rocks and walls. It is described as bitter, astringent, light, dry, and cold in potency. It is primarily used for cough (Kasa), asthma (Shvasa), fever (Jvara), and respiratory conditions. The delicate fan-shaped fronds have a water-repellent surface. Verse refs: page 444.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Bitter (Tikta), Astringent (Kashaya)
Quality (Guna)
Light (Laghu), Dry (Ruksha)
Potency (Virya)
Cold (Sheeta)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Pungent (Katu)
Key Constituents
Tannins, mucilage, flavonoids
Also Known As
English: Maiden hair, Maidenhair Fern
Sanskrit: हंसपदी, हंसराज
Hindi: हंसराज, संसपदी

What is Hansapadi (Maidenhair Fern / हंसपदी)?

Hansapadi (Adiantum lunulatum) is a delicate fern, commonly called Maidenhair Fern. The fronds are the medicinal part. The plant grows in shady, moist areas on rocks and walls. It is described as bitter, astringent, light, dry, and cold in potency. It is primarily used for cough (Kasa), asthma (Shvasa), fever (Jvara), and respiratory conditions. The delicate fan-shaped fronds have a water-repellent surface. Verse refs: page 444.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Kasahara (relieves cough)
  • Shvasahara (relieves asthma)
  • Jvaraghna (reduces fever)
  • Kaphahara (alleviates Kapha)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Hansapadi by Condition

Explore how Hansapadi is used for specific health concerns — with dosage, preparation methods, and classical references for each.

⟶
Hansapadi for Male Sexual Health

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.