Metuapua’a (Microsorum grossum) is a plant with dozens of synonyms. This plant is recognized as one of the most useful plant in traditional medicine in the Society Islands but also throughout Pacific Ocean. It’s employed in “fati” remedies, all about: broken bones, sprains, shocks, bruises… A “hidden illness”. But it is also used in the baths to heal the “ira”: fever, convulsions, and nervousness, especially amongst children. In French Polynesia but also in Cook Islands, Metuapua’a is used for its purgative properties. Fronds without spores are prepared for baths to heal skin problems (heat rashes, eczema). Root has healing properties, and if it’s mixed with coconut milk (Cocos nucifera) it is used for intimate hygiene of women in Marquesas Islands. According to Grepin these roots, in combination with other plants, are used to treat cough and asthma. Large quantities of this fern can be abortive (Petard, 1972). Be careful with the dosages of this fern, several intoxications have been reported.
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