Iceland Moss
Iceland Moss
Cetraria islandica
AKA: Iceland lichen
Portrait: Lichen. Native to northern and alpine regions of Europe, especially Great Britain and Iceland. Widespread in subarctic and mountainous regions of the northern hemisphere. Favors cool, damp coniferous forests on stony ground. Color ranges from olive-green to grayish-white.
Medicinal Element: Whole plant
Herbal Properties: Antiemetic, demulcent, galactagogue, tonic
Summary: Not a true moss, this plant is actually an alga and a fungus existing in symbiosis – botanically, Iceland moss is a lichen. It appears to hinder the growth of tubercles or lung nodules infected with the tuberculosis bacterium and is still used by herbalists in remote areas of the world to treat this infection. An infusion of Iceland moss is suggested for irritated mucus membranes of the chest, upper respiratory congestion, dry coughs, hoarseness, bronchitis, and acute attacks of asthma. It is occasionally recommended for chronic digestive problems that “flare up” from time to time such as gastritis or heartburn. Iceland moss is known to stimulate the flow of milk in lactating women, however, those with any nursing-related breast irritations including mastitis or chafing should avoid this herb. Only use this herb for specific symptoms. To avoid gastrointestinal and liver disturbances, do not use Iceland moss longer than 2 weeks at a time.
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