Icelandic moss enjoys well-deserved popularity . From a botanical point of view, it is correct to say "Icelandic cetraria", which refers to a large group of lichens. In the northern countries, it was used as a flavoring additive to bakery, meat and fish dishes. The dried plant was added to drinks and sweet desserts to add a piquant flavor.
In addition to cooking, lichen is well known in Ayurvedic medicine and homeopathy. The healing properties of Icelandic moss have been studied for centuries. It has been scientifically proven that the shrub was almost a panacea for serious diseases among medieval peoples. They were treated with pulmonary, skin and intestinal pathologies. According to reliable sources, the plant is at least 400 years old.
The medicinal lichen has many names, they were given by people from different regions: dry moss, scapula, leather shield, etc. We will immediately make a correction: the plant arose as a result of crossing seaweed and fungus. As a result, we have an amazing "organism" created to bring only benefit to humanity and protect it from harmful microorganisms.
Icelandic moss: medicinal properties, photo, description
In fact, this is a small loose shrub up to 15 cm high, covering a significant part of the soil. Its leaves are dense twisted lobes resembling the horns of a large deer. It’s hard not to notice him in the forest. The plant has an amazing property to change color depending on the humidity of the environment. In a humid climate, lichen acquires a beautiful olive color, and in a dry climate it becomes brown.
A fairly unpretentious shrub, therefore, grows throughout the territory of the Russian Federation, as well as countries in Europe, Asia and Africa. Prefers sandy lands, subalpine and alpine places. It can not be found in polluted ecological zones, it is a kind of indicator of environmental cleanliness. The plant is very fond of animals, especially deer.
Raw material collection
Icelandic moss, whose healing properties are explained by the presence of a whole set of valuable components, is collected in the summer months. For medicinal purposes, only the thallus is used. Its preparation is carried out with a wooden rake or with hands, so that the plant does not crumble. After cleaning, the leaves are carefully dried in the sun, transferred to opaque containers or bags and stored for two years.
Biochemical composition
Generous mother nature endowed man with unique plants that can replace even antibacterial agents. These include Icelandic moss. Properties are characterized by a rich mineral and vitamin set. Vitamin B12 is present in the thallus , which is responsible for the absorption of fats and proteins, which also activates the immune system and improves the condition of the hair.
The main energy value is the presence of important trace elements: iron, calcium, magnesium, iodine and flint. In addition, various acids, pigments, a whole list of vitamins and wax have been found in large numbers in the center. It is not for nothing that traditional medicine considers this lichen to be the best natural immunostimulant.
The healing and healing properties of Icelandic moss
Clinical studies have proven the antimicrobial effect of shrubs due to the content of usnic acid. When ingested, it neutralizes pathogenic bacteria, leading to their death. 19th century healers watered decoctions of patients with tuberculosis, and they were able to overcome a serious infection when official medicine passed before the pathology.
Usnic acid, according to experts, fights free radicals, so infusions are prescribed to people with malignant diseases in order to slow down the growth of the tumor. Scientists have found that Icelandic moss, whose medicinal properties are due to the presence of lichenine, exhibits anti-inflammatory and antiviral effects.
Traditional medicine has confirmed the powerful immunomodulating and antioxidant properties of lichen. Water and alcohol infusions are aimed at eliminating the early signs of skin aging, increasing the body's defenses, and combating psychoemotional states. Western pharmaceutical companies produce medicines (syrups, lozenges, lozenges) for colds and coughs, and they also add cetraria to toothpastes.
Pharmacology
The therapeutic effect of the plant in the fight against respiratory diseases is especially great. Gently envelops, softens and soothes the mucous membrane of the pharynx and oral cavity of Icelandic moss. The healing properties (for children, herbal remedies can be used from the age of five) are characterized by incoming elements.
Decoctions relieve bronchitis, tuberculosis, asthma, tonsillitis and cough. You can gargle with a potion for a better result and use it inside. During treatment, not only viruses are destroyed, but the immune system is also activated.
They are recommended for use in the rehabilitation period after abdominal operations and long-term illnesses. Using a natural medicine, it is possible to get rid of whooping cough, stagnation of bile, insomnia, digestive disorders, gastritis, gastrointestinal ulcers. Indispensable for skin lesions and pathologies: burns, cuts, wounds, acne.
The taste is unpleasant, and the effect is obvious
There are many positive reviews from users who have experienced the miraculous Icelandic moss. The healing properties (reviews confirm the high effectiveness) of this plant have a wide therapeutic spectrum of action. Helps to overcome a debilitating cough and significantly improve well-being.
However, not everyone liked the taste of the infusion, it is very bitter, it is unpleasant to drink it. But homeopathic fans found a way out - to brew a lichen in milk and sour-milk drinks. Taste is radically changing for the better - even a small child will like it.
Cetraria-based Medicinal Products
The healing properties of Icelandic moss do not disappear after heat treatment and are better manifested. Usually the plant is dried, then ground and brewed as a tea drink. To improve the taste, add honey, mint and lemon. This is an excellent restorative and prophylactic for ARVI and flu.
From dried and fresh lichen, tinctures and decoctions are prepared, which have a hemostatic, wound healing, anti-inflammatory and strengthening effect. We suggest writing a prescription for cough and inflammation. Pour 4 large tablespoons of moss with two glasses of water, boil for 5-7 minutes. After the solution has cooled, strain and consume 10 ml three times a day.
From bronchitis and a debilitating cough, the following recipe will help: chopped dry raw materials in the amount of a tablespoon, pour a glass of milk and boil for half an hour. Take milk broth at night. It has an expectorant, calming and mucolytic effect. You can give children, after consulting with a competent specialist.
There is an option for tincture with alcohol: take 250 g for 250 ml of pure alcohol (60%). dry moss. Insist a week, drink 10 drops. It stops inflammation and normalizes the metabolic work of the body.
A universal recipe helps to heal skin, eye and digestive diseases. Made from 10 gr. Central and half a liter of cold water. Boil the mixture, cool and filter. With a cold, drink 1/3 cup after a meal and gargle. For gastritis and peptic ulcer, they consume 50 ml each half an hour before meals.
Compresses are made of decoction for purulent wounds, burns, malignant tumors and dermatitis. People suffering from conjunctivitis are advised to rinse their eyes with this solution every three hours during the day. It will draw out pus and eliminate the inflammatory process of Icelandic moss. The healing properties (the recipes are time-tested and exhibit a pronounced therapeutic effect) of the lichen are truly amazing and have no contraindications.
Pharmaceutical Medicines Containing Lichen
In the pharmacy network, drugs consisting of cetraria are presented for sale. Their main task is the destruction of pathogenic viruses and bacteria in the respiratory tract. The Isla Moos and Isla Mint lozenges for cough and sore throat have worked well. In addition to moisturizing the mucosa, they also increase immunity. You can purchase natural lichen in packaging at an affordable price. The healing properties of Icelandic moss are endless, effective and do not cause negative manifestations.