Ostrich fern is a plant. The young shoots of ostrich fern, known as fiddleheads, are used to make medicine.
Ostrich fern is used as a gargle for sore throat, as a laxative, and for wounds and boils on the skin, but there is no good evidence to support any use.
In foods, fiddleheads are regarded as a seasonal delicacy. They are available canned, frozen, or fresh. Fresh fiddleheads must be boiled at least 10 minutes before eating. Otherwise they can cause severe food poisoning.
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