A review of the medicinal ferns of Ukraine

Abstract

The growing demand for natural medicines, food products and cosmetics stimulates the search and studies on the diversity of plant species. Ferns are a promising source of biologically active substances for pharmaceutical and medical purposes. Out of 63 species of wild ferns in Ukraine, 39 species contain biologically active substances, which are used, or can be used for medicinal and food purposes. Most of them have limited distribution and resources. Many of them are endangered and are in need of protection. This article highlights some aspects of the distribution, resource significance, and protection status in Ukraine and\or Europe, as well as the medicinal value of the wild medicinal ferns of Ukraine.