Wild Crafted Usnea Lichen (Usnea spp.)

Herbs are Sold By the Ounce, Price is Per Ounce

Usnea Lichen (Usnea spp.)

Family:

Parmeliaceae

Common Names:

Old Man’s Beard, Beard Lichen, Tree Moss

Origin:

Usnea is found worldwide, particularly in temperate and boreal forests across North America, Europe, Asia, and South America.

Parts Used:

Whole lichen (thallus)

Habitat:

Usnea lichen grows on trees, particularly on the bark of hardwoods and conifers in moist, cool environments. It prefers areas with clean air, as it is sensitive to air pollution, making it an indicator of good air quality.

History and Folklore:

Usnea has been used for centuries in traditional medicine, especially in Native American, European, and Chinese herbal practices. It was valued for its antimicrobial properties and was commonly used to treat infections, wounds, and respiratory issues. In folklore, usnea was believed to protect against evil spirits and was sometimes worn as an amulet for protection and healing.

Metaphysical Properties:

Usnea is associated with protection, healing, and purification. It is often used in rituals to cleanse spaces, promote healing, and ward off negative energy.

Botany:

Usnea is a fruticose lichen, meaning it has a bushy or hair-like appearance. It hangs in strands from tree branches and has a greenish-gray outer layer with a white, elastic inner core. The lichen grows slowly and can live for many years, forming dense mats on the trees it inhabits.

Growing and Harvesting:

Usnea cannot be cultivated but is wild-harvested from trees. It is typically collected after storms when it has been knocked off branches or carefully removed from trees without harming the lichen or its host. The lichen can be used fresh or dried and is often made into tinctures, teas, or topical preparations.

Constituents:

• Usnic Acid: A potent antimicrobial and antifungal compound.
• Polysaccharides: Contribute to the lichen’s immune-modulating properties.
• Lichenin: A carbohydrate that supports respiratory health.
• Mucilage: Provides soothing and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Phenolic Compounds: Antioxidants that protect cells from oxidative damage.

Energetics:

• Temperature: Cooling
• Taste: Bitter, Slightly Astringent

Medicinal Actions:

• Antimicrobial: Fights bacteria, fungi, and viruses, making it useful in treating infections.
• Antifungal: Effective against various fungal infections, including Candida.
• Expectorant: Helps clear mucus from the respiratory tract, useful for coughs and bronchitis.
• Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammation, particularly in the respiratory and urinary systems.
• Immune Modulator: Supports and balances immune function.
• Vulnerary: Promotes wound healing and protects against infection when applied topically.

System Affinities:

• Respiratory System: Used to treat bronchitis, pneumonia, tuberculosis, and other respiratory infections.
• Urinary System: Helps treat urinary tract infections (UTIs) and other infections of the urinary tract.
• Immune System: Supports the immune response, particularly in fighting infections.
• Skin: Applied topically to treat wounds, burns, and fungal infections like athlete’s foot.

Uses:

• Tincture: Usnea tincture is commonly used to treat respiratory infections, UTIs, and support immune function.
• Tea: Usnea tea can be used to soothe respiratory and urinary infections, though it is less commonly used in this form due to its bitterness.
• Topical Application: Usnea can be applied as a poultice or in ointments and salves to treat wounds, burns, and skin infections.
• Infusion: Usnea can be infused in oils or alcohol for topical use, particularly for fungal infections.

Cautions:

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: The safety of usnea during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been well studied, so it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider before use.
• Liver Toxicity: High doses or prolonged use of usnea, particularly usnic acid, may cause liver toxicity. It should be used with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
• Allergies: Some individuals may be allergic to usnea. Discontinue use if any signs of an allergic reaction occur, such as skin irritation or difficulty breathing.

Scientific Studies:

1. A study in Phytomedicine confirmed the antimicrobial properties of usnic acid, supporting its traditional use in treating infections.
2. Research in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology highlighted the antifungal effects of usnea, particularly against Candida species.
3. A study published in Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy explored usnea's potential as an immune-modulating agent, showing its ability to enhance the immune response.