Icelandic moss: medicinal properties and contraindications, cough recipes, drugs, folk methods. Iceland moss: medicinal properties and contraindications Application in pharmacology

Iceland moss- not just a well-known plant. Its thallus has many medicinal properties that are actively used for medical purposes.

Iceland moss, or Cetraria islandica(Icelandic cetraria) is a plant of the Lichen family. The area of ​​distribution of this species is very extensive: from the tundra zone to mountainous regions. It grows well on peat bogs, in pine forests, dunes, in high-mountain moss-lichen tundra.

It occurs both on the soil and on the bark of old trees, on stumps. The thallus of moss, up to 15 cm high, looks like loose turf, forming a continuous carpet on the soil. The leaves are dense, twisted, reminiscent of deer antlers. In a humid climate, they acquire an olive color, and in a dry climate, the plant turns brown.

More than two hundred years ago, Icelandic moss was very popular in medicine in many countries. Then, when the first information appeared about such classes of organic substances as alkaloids, to which the therapeutic effect of many medicinal plants was attributed, Cetraria islandica gradually fell out of medical use as a plant that does not contain known medicines. active ingredients, and was used only in folk medicine.

And only in 1947 antibiotic properties were discovered in the plant, i.e. the ability to kill many types of pathogenic microorganisms, including tubercle bacillus. It turned out that lichen acids have antibiotic properties in moss.

Collection and preparation

For therapeutic purposes, the thallus of the plant is widely used, which is harvested throughout the summer period. Raw materials are torn off from the soil, tree bark by hand or with a wooden rake. Then it is cleaned of impurities: other lichens, mosses, sand.

You can dry the plant in the sun or in dryers with good ventilation. You can store the dried thallus in a paper bag in a dry place. Shelf life - from 1 to 2 years.

Medicinal properties

many useful for human body substances are contained in the thallus of Icelandic moss: 3-5% organic acids, 80% carbohydrates. The plant contains up to 2% fat, 3% protein, 1% wax, 3.6% gum. It contains a lot of vitamin B12, which is responsible for immunity, protects against stress,.

In domestic folk medicine, the thallus of Icelandic moss was used for bronchial asthma, colds, whooping cough, laryngitis and pulmonary tuberculosis. The presence of biologically active components determines various applications thallus.

In the form of decoctions or infusions, it is used for diseases of the stomach, intestines, respiratory organs, to increase appetite, as a tonic. Often medicinal raw materials are used for digestive disorders.

Before undertaking the preparation of medicinal decoctions, infusions and alcohol tinctures, it is necessary to consult a doctor. Only a specialist will determine the dosage of the drug that you need. And, of course, you can not engage in herbal medicine, not knowing the exact diagnosis of your disease.

Pharmacy preparations

Some pharmacy medicines from Icelandic moss are allowed to be "prescribed" to oneself on their own, but many of them require medical consultation. We offer you a small cheat sheet.

Decoctions

With diarrhea, chronic constipation, diseases of the stomach. First way. Prepare a decoction of dried raw materials as follows: pour 50 grams of thallus into 750 ml of hot water, boil for half an hour at minimum heat, filter after cooling, drink the decoction all day, divided into several doses.

The second way: pour the crushed raw materials with cold water, then heat to a boil. Drink the prepared broth all day in small sips.

For sore throat, cough. The first option: pour twenty grams of raw materials (dry crushed thallus) with water (1 cup), heat by placing the container in a water bath (30 minutes). Remove from the stove, stand for 10 minutes, filter the broth, then bring to the original amount by adding warm boiled water. Drink two tablespoons 6 times a day before meals. The second cooking option: pour two teaspoons of raw materials with two glasses of chilled boiled water, then bring to a boil. Distribute the intake of the resulting jelly-like liquid throughout the day.

To increase appetite. Decoction to drink ¼ of a glass before meals 3 times a day. Cooking: dry raw materials (20 g) pour water (220 ml), put on fire (10 min.). Cool the infusion, filter, season with honey to taste.

At varicose veins veins. Take the infusion 3 times a day for ½ of a glass. Cooking: in an enamel bowl, combine chopped oak and birch bark, horse chestnut seeds - all 20 grams each. Add thallus of Icelandic moss, field horsetail - 50 grams each, rhubarb root - 30 grams. Pour boiling water (0.5 l) collection medicinal herbs(2 tablespoons), stand for 1 hour, filter.

When quitting smoking. Drink a decoction after eating a third of a glass (3-4 times). Cooking: you will need a thallus of moss, a pikulnik, gills - two parts each, three parts of nettle, 1 part of a highlander bird. Take a handful of herbal collection, pour boiling water (0.5 l), keep on minimum heat for no more than 10 minutes, then leave for 60 minutes.

infusions

Infusion of Icelandic moss is drunk for colds, diseases of the oral cavity, diarrhea.

For . Infusion externally taken for rinsing the mouth. Carry out the procedure half an hour before meals. Cooking: pour 1 handful of raw materials with boiling water (400 ml), soak for 30 minutes, filter.

From chronic constipation. Pour 1 cup of crushed raw materials with 2 liters of water, soak for 24 hours. Take 200 ml 3 times a day.

For the treatment of the common cold. Pour water over one tablespoon of moss, sage, St. John's wort, leave for 3 hours. In the evening (before going to bed) rinse your nose, gargle. You can make an inhalation, breathe over the hot infusion until it cools, no more than 10 minutes.

Tinctures

Along with decoctions, tinctures prepared in 40-degree alcohol are used. They perfectly restore strength, improve the speed of metabolic processes in the body.

For the treatment of diseases of the stomach. Forty grams of moss thallus pour 200 g of alcohol, leave for a week. Take 10-15 drops 2 times a day.

For the treatment of dry cough. Pour crushed raw materials (10 g) with 100 g of alcohol, leave for 10 days in a tightly closed container in a warm but dark place. Drink 10 drops 3-4 times a day. For gargling, the infusion should be diluted with boiled water in a ratio of 1:10.

To deal with insomnia. Pour crushed moss (100 g) with vodka (200 ml), leave for 14 days in a cupboard. Take 10 drops 3 times a day.

The use of Icelandic moss in cosmetology

A sufficient amount of tonic components allows the widespread use of Icelandic moss in cosmetology. Cleansing lotions, natural soap are prepared from it.

From acne, with weakened hair and the first signs of skin aging. Wipe face with lotion 2 times a day, rinse hair after washing.

Cooking: dry crushed lichen (40 g) pour boiling water (200 ml). Keep on fire for 10 minutes, cool and filter. Store the lotion in a glass bottle with a tight stopper on the refrigerator shelf.

Soap for cleansing and restoring the skin. Make shavings from baby soap with a grater, melt it in a water bath. Make a milk-based decoction by adding chopped thallus. Pour the prepared broth into the melted soap. Remove from stove, pour into molds, adding a little essential oil and pharmacy glycerin. Spray the top of the soap with alcohol. Leave to harden.

Contraindications for use

The idea of ​​taking drugs with Icelandic moss will have to be abandoned if you have had, have, or, according to doctors, in the near future, these diseases are possible:

• disruption of the digestive system;
• liver disease;
• bronchial asthma;
• cholecystitis and pancreatitis;
• gastritis and ulcerative colitis;
• too "active" intestines;
• spastic constipation.

It is impossible to consider Icelandic moss and medicines from it as drugs for therapy. They are contraindicated in autoimmune diseases, tuberculosis, malignant tumors and pneumonia. Use with extreme caution during pregnancy, lactation and in childhood.

You can learn about the medicinal properties of Icelandic moss and how to prepare decoctions from the following video:

The article selected the most effective decoctions, infusions and tinctures of Icelandic moss. They improve the condition in asthma, flu, diseases of the throat, respiratory tract, various disorders intestines and digestion. Useful infusion is used for dry cough, sore throat, colds and flu as a diaphoretic and diuretic.

Outwardly, a decoction of the thallus is used for rinsing with inflammation of the gums, stomatitis, periodontal disease, and also with tonsillitis. Are very popular pharmaceutical preparations such as Herbion syrup, lozenges, warming cream.

In contact with

Cetraria Icelandic or Icelandic moss belongs to the perennial lichen of the Parmeliaceae family.

Description

Cetraria Icelandic - a symbiosis of algae and fungi. They represent a holistic single organism due to the close relationship between these microorganisms.

Perennial foliate lichen, external form - upright bushes with characteristic irregularly ribbon-shaped lobes (sparsely spread), narrow and flat, leathery-cartilaginous, reaching a height of 10 cm, a width of 0.3-0.5 cm, with short dark cilia , color - greenish-brown, there are shades of brown, it all depends on the lighting, reddish spots are observed at the base, shiny or matte on the underside, sometimes the same color or lighter on both sides.

The underside of the plant is covered with abundant white spots (pseudocyfelams) - their shape is different. The edges of the blades are wrapped slightly towards the top. Apothecia (fruiting bodies) sometimes sprout at the ends of the lobes - they have a brownish tint, plate-shaped with a slightly pronounced jagged edge. Bags with spores develop directly in apothecia. Spores of an epileptic form, unicellular, colorless, in each bag - 8 pieces.

Icelandic Cetraria, like most representatives of the genus Cetraria, is characterized by too slow growth compared to other lichen species. It is quite difficult to create favorable conditions that equally satisfy both algae and fungi.

Lichens of the genus Cetraria are characterized by intercalary growth, which makes Icelandic Cetraria resistant and capable of survival, because almost all parts of the lichen are quite capable of developing new individuals.

Cetraria moss is found in America, Australia, Asia and Europe, in places in the Middle and Northern Europe, in the Carpathians in Ukraine, the forest zone of Siberia, in the tundra, in principle, throughout the entire northern hemisphere to the very Arctic zone.

Cetraria loves unshaded sandy areas, often forming pure thickets, but also grows in the highlands, on rocky and grassy areas, in mountain forests, and on peat bogs. It comes across in small groups and in heather thickets, in swampy areas.

Icelandic Cetraria develops exclusively in ecologically clean regions. It is a kind of indicator of cleanliness regarding industrial industrial areas, which can be used in solving environmental problems on a global scale.

Chemical composition

To date chemical composition cetraria have been studied quite well, since

research began hundreds of years ago. In Icelandic cetraria, a large number of biologically active substances are synthesized.

The thallus contains mainly carbohydrates: lichenin, mannitol galactomannate, isolichenin, erythritol, chitin, sucrose, umbilicin, hemicellulose and others. Among the possibilities of the Icelandic moss thallus is the accumulation of up to 50 - 80% of polysaccharides, endowed with the ability to dissolve during extraction with hot water, while forming a mass of thick consistency.

Lichenin is a linear polysaccharide, hydrolysis gives glucose, does not turn blue from iodine, dissolves in hot water.

Isolichenin has a similar chemical structure, tends to dissolve in cold water, turns blue from iodine.

Cetraria moss contains organic acids, called lichen acids. It is to them that Icelandic Cetraria owes its bitter aftertaste, and it is they that determine its tonic and antibiotic properties.

In addition to acids, the thallus contains: gum, proteins, vitamin C, fats, wax, pentacyclic triterpene fridelin, vitamin B12, minerals, pigments and naphthoquinone (juglone). Cetraria moss contains antiscorbutic vitamin C, and in an easily digestible form, which remains unchanged in the dried plant for 3 years. The discovery of such a fact was made by the doctor Granatik, a Russian by birth, who worked for several years in the north of the Far East.

Pharmacological properties

Cetraria Icelandic is characterized biologically active substances, which have a softening, anti-inflammatory and expectorant effect.

Icelandic moss polysaccharides are endowed with the ability to protect the mucous membrane of the respiratory tract from the adverse effects of chemical factors.

Most microbiologists at that time focused only on individual isolated lichen acids and only later discovered the manifestation of pronounced antimicrobial activity of individual lichen acids. This is especially true of usnic acid, which has a strong antibiotic activity. Moreover, its sodium salt in the case of a dilution of 1:2,000,000 significantly suppresses the spread of Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Gram-positive microorganisms (streptococci, staphylococci).

Usnic acid is about 3 times inferior to streptomycin in its antibacterial activity. The effect of lichen extracts on gram-positive acid-resistant bacteria has been proven. And only a few - on individual gram-negative species.

When studying medicines, produced from cetraria, pharmacists found that in the case of preparing a decoction, cetraric acid passes into water, while usnic acid does not pass. In small doses, usnic acid is quite capable of killing tuberculosis pathogens and individual gram-positive bacteria.

The active antimicrobial factor of cetraria is fumaro-protocetraric acid. German scientists consider it a strong immunomodulator that activates the immune system.

D-protolychesteric acid in the form of salts and in the free state is active on Helicobacter pylori (at 16 - 64 µg/ml). This factor explains

therapeutic efficacy of Icelandic moss in case of treatment peptic ulcer 12 duodenal ulcer and stomach.

Naphthoquinones, contained in a small amount in Icelandic cetraria, exhibit high antifungal and antibacterial activity.

Mucus and acids, as components of moss, show a sedative effect.

Anti-inflammatory properties are exhibited by protolichesteric acid and pentacyclic triterpene fridelin. In addition, protolichesteric acid is an inhibitor of arachidonic acid 5-lipoxygenase, as a result of which the synthesis of leukotrienes is suppressed, namely, they are important mediators of inflammation.

Clinical Application

The first pharmaceutical product was produced in Germany in the distant 50s. It was made on the basis of lichen acids and was called Evozin. Thanks to usnic and evernic acids, it had a pronounced antimicrobial activity. They were treated clinically for lupus erythematosus and diseases caused by pathogenic microorganisms.

For the treatment of tuberculosis, German scientists created the drug Eosin-2, which included, in addition to usnic and evernic acids, lichen acids: physodic, atronarinic, caperic.

A mixture of streptomycin and usnic acid was used to treat skin diseases and tuberculosis.

For the treatment of actinomycosis in Japan, an antibiotic preparation was created from lichens.

Iceland moss, due to its expectorant and emollient properties, is an excellent remedy with, with diagnoses and with a debilitating cough.

The drug sodium usninate, developed on the basis of usnic acid, is an effective antimicrobial agent in the treatment of burns, wounds, cracks. Presented in the form of oil and alcohol solutions. It should be noted that the bacterial flora present on the wound surface rather slowly decreases and disappears, despite the beneficial effect of usnic acid directly on the process of regeneration of infected wounds and is observed until the end of complete epithelization.

Activity on different strains hemolytic staphylococcus and Staphylococcus aureus showed the drug Binan. It is stable during storage, had a high bacterial activity, but was quite toxic.

It was recommended in the treatment of infected wounds (especially large surfaces) as an external agent. But, despite its effectiveness, the drug Binan has not found its application in medical practice.

When is considered quite promising for local application crushed thallus of cetraria, designed in the form of tablets. After the operation on the nasal cavity on the 1-5th day, applications of tablets made from moss were applied to patients. In patients, when using 10 tablets (0.48 g) per day, drying of the mucous membrane, traces of plaque on it, symptoms of inflammation of the oral mucosa, tongue and lymph nodes, hoarseness of the voice and pain decreased. At this treatment side effects was not observed.

A decoction of lichen is often used as a soothing, enveloping and wound healing agent. In diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, it demonstrates a pronounced therapeutic effect, including indigestion, diarrhea, stomach and duodenal ulcers. Alcoholic extract of cetraria eliminates pain patients diagnosed with gastric ulcer, directly related to food intake, as established in clinical trials. This effect is explained by the enveloping property of the drug. Before preparing the decoction, the thallus of the cetraria should be soaked in cold water to get rid of bitterness. Followed by 2 glasses cold water pour 2 teaspoons of chopped thallus, bring to a boil and boil for 5 minutes, strain and drink the whole broth during the day.

The bitterness present in the decoction of Icelandic moss normalizes digestion and stimulates appetite. Therefore, in rehabilitation period, after serious illnesses, a decoction of cetraria is used as a general tonic. True, in gastroenterology, the bitterness of Icelandic moss wide application did not receive due to problems with the raw material base.

Previously, there was an opinion about the nutritional properties of cetraria decoction, since the carbohydrates contained in it (isolichenan, lichenan) are easily absorbed by the body, but further studies have not confirmed this assumption.

Contraindications for use

Cetraria Icelandic is contraindicated in:

• gastritis with high acidity;
• stomach ulcer;
• pregnancy;
• lactation period.

Collection and preparation of medicinal raw materials

For medicinal purposes, dried thallus of cetraria is necessary, with a slight peculiar smell and a bitter-mucous taste. Produce the procurement of raw materials, as a rule, in the summer or autumn. When harvesting, the thallus of the cetraria is torn off from the substrate, cleaned of impurities, then dried in the sun or in the shade, laying out a thin layer on paper or fabric.

For long-term storage, use paper-lined boxes or tightly closed jars, which are placed in a dark, cool and dry place. The dry thallus of the cetraria, soaked in water, should acquire a slimy consistency, and the decoction itself should turn into a jelly after cooling.

Medicines

As a syrup with Iceland moss, vitamin C and chamomile and vitamin C.

In 5 ml (equivalent to 6.5 g) of syrup: ascorbic acid, liquid extract of chamomile flowers, liquid extract of Icelandic cetraria.

It is indicated for colds and flu, for bronchitis - acute and chronic, for inflammation of the upper respiratory tract with cough, dosage - three times a day, 1 tbsp. spoon before meals.

The syrup is placed in bottles of 100 ml.

Bronchialtee 400 - Tea granulate

100 g contains: 7 g of sage leaves, 10 g of thyme herb, 5 g of marshmallow, linden flowers and Icelandic moss, 5.4 g of thick aqueous extracts with 10 g of fennel fruit.

It is indicated for acute and chronic bronchitis, colds, it is recommended two or three times a day for one cup of tea.

Isla-Mint Pastillen - Cough lozenges

In the composition - 100 mg or 160 mg aqueous extract Icelandic moss.

Indicated for dry mucous membranes, hoarseness, irritating cough, for maintenance therapy of bronchial asthma, bronchial catarrh, are recommended - several times a day, 1-2 lozenges, while slowly dissolving.

Salus Bronchial Tee - Tea

In 100 g of tea: 11 g of Icelandic moss, 15 g of fennel fruit, 12 g of linden flowers and knotweed grass, 4 g of mullein flowers, deaf nettles and marigolds, 6 g of primrose flowers, 13 g of thyme herb, 19 g of raspberry leaves.

Indicated to relieve cough in inflammation of the respiratory system and catarrh, to thin mucus. Recommended per day - 4-5 times one glass of hot tea.

Toxicology

The introduction of daily 0.1-1.0 sodium usninate did not have a harmful effect on the human body. But in the case of a daily dose of 3 g, pain occurred in the liver area,

discontinued with dose reduction.

Iceland moss is unique medicinal plant, which is closely related to lichens. The described species is distributed not only in temperate climates, it can be found in Africa and Australia. Like other lichens, cetraria covers the ground, tree stumps.

In Russia, such a plant can also be found, it is valued folk medicine and grows in ecologically clean areas.

A perennial leaf-shaped lichen, a variety of which is reindeer moss, is distinguished by an upright form of bushes. The lobes are ribbon-shaped, irregular in shape, narrow and flat, their height is up to 10 cm. The leaves are greenish-brown, have reddish marks at the base, and their underside is covered with white spots. The edges of the leaves are wrapped up, which gives the plant an unusual look. Icelandic moss reproduces by transferring any part of it, but this lichen grows slowly. With a lack of moisture, the plant becomes gray and breaks.

Parmelia is a relative of cetraria, a lichen that grows on tree branches. The described species is found in all regions of Russia, with the exception of the steppe zone. You can find lichen thickets in the Caucasus and Crimea, where the plant covers the trees in an even layer. Bushes grow singly or in continuous clusters in pine forests, wastelands, alpine meadows.

Iceland moss is a unique medicinal plant that is closely related to lichens.

You cannot see Icelandic moss in places polluted with harmful emissions or near roads.

Terms and features of the collection of Icelandic cetraria

Plants are harvested in August and September; thallus is suitable for harvesting. It is necessary to stock up on moss in dry weather in order for it to be better preserved. The lichen must be torn off the soil and thoroughly cleaned of the remnants of the earth and needles, which is a difficult task.

The moss collected and cleaned of impurities is laid out in an even layer on a paper or fabric bedding, it is traditionally dried in the sun until the moisture has completely evaporated. For this purpose, it is allowed to use industrial dryers, ovens, provided that the temperature is set to low up to 45 ° C. Finished raw materials save beneficial features within 2 years, store dry moss in a tightly closed container, placed in a cool place.

Gallery: cetraria (25 photos)

How to clean the cetrarium from impurities (video)

The use of Icelandic moss in medicine

Moss treatment has been familiar to people since time immemorial. Science knows the anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties of the plant, in diseases of the respiratory system, preparations from cetraria have a softening effect, dilute sputum and remove it from the bronchi.

With the help of the described lichen, ailments such as tuberculosis, bronchitis, and pneumonia can be treated due to the active components of moss.

Medicines made from Icelandic moss are recommended to treat inflammation of the mouth, and they can also reduce hoarseness in bronchitis. Decoctions are prepared from dry raw materials to help treat diseases of the digestive system. They gently envelop the mucous membrane, heal stomach ulcers. Cetraria is also effective in diarrhea, as the astringent compounds help to establish a natural process.

Medicines made from Icelandic moss are recommended to treat inflammation of the mouth, and they can also reduce hoarseness in bronchitis

It is known that this plant can negatively affect pathogens and inhibit the process of their reproduction, which means that cetraria can be considered natural antibiotic. This herb treats diseases caused by staphylococci, streptococci and other dangerous microbes. Moss compresses are used as an external agent., relieving rashes and acne, and the plant heals burns and abrasions.

Cetraria raises immunity, therefore, after serious illnesses, the use of the plant as a useful supplement is indicated. With oncological ailments, preparations from Icelandic moss inhibit the growth of pathological cells, fight free radicals and improve well-being.

Thus, the use of cetraria in medicine is fully justified and helps to cure many diseases.

Moss compresses are used as an external agent.

Icelandic moss tablets during pregnancy and lactation

Pregnant women are not prohibited from using products with the addition of Icelandic moss, however, specialist advice in this case will not be superfluous. This plant helps to eliminate sore throat, cough and other symptoms of a cold, it can be taken at any stage of pregnancy with the permission of the attending physician. The convenient form of the drug in tablets makes it easy to use, and the components that make up the cetraria help to cope with the signs of toxicosis.

During lactation, medicinal moss successfully replaces prohibited drugs for sore throats and other diseases of the upper respiratory tract, this remedy can be used without fear in the absence of allergies.

How to apply Icelandic moss (video)

Iceland moss: chemical composition and medicinal properties

Cetraria is rich in various biological substances and elements, and the excellent nutritional properties of the plant are due to the high content of carbohydrates in it. Chitin in lichen improves peristalsis gastrointestinal tract, as well as Icelandic moss is saturated with the following substances:

• vitamins of groups B and C;
• usnic acid;
• sugars (glucose and galactose);
• slime;
• wax;
• gum;
• trace elements - iron, magnesium, iodine and others.

The most valuable components of cetraria are usnic and other organic acids, which exhibit powerful antimicrobial properties. For this plant is so valued by folk healers and is even used in the manufacture of pharmaceutical medicines. Vitamins and trace elements increase human immunity, help strengthen the body.

The most valuable components of cetraria are usnic and other organic acids, which exhibit powerful antimicrobial properties.

The mucus in the composition of the grass envelops the mucosa internal organs digestion, thereby relieving pain.

The benefits of cetraria are due to the following healing properties:

• antibacterial;
• immunostimulating;
• anti-inflammatory;
• healing.

The correct use of Icelandic moss helps to improve digestion, cleanse the body of harmful substances and get rid of chronic diseases. The main thing is to use the gift of nature correctly and take medicines from it as directed. Icelandic moss has no contraindications; only expired raw materials can harm health.

Iceland moss recipes

Plants for making home remedies can be purchased at a pharmacy or collected by yourself. Popularity among adherents healthy lifestyle hot lichen tea conquered life. To prepare it, you will need the following ingredients:

• dry Icelandic moss (2 teaspoons);
• boiling water (250 ml), honey to taste.

Popularity among adherents of a healthy lifestyle won hot lichen tea

This tea is drunk at least 3 times a day. A hot drink relieves a person’s condition with pneumonia, bronchitis and colds, you can combine this remedy with complex treatment ailment.

Plant

Doctor's advice

Name in Latin: Cetraria islandica

Synonyms: Icelandic moss, thorn moss, dry forest moss, Icelandic lichen Cetraria Icelandic, lung moss , lopastyanka , komashnik , reindeer moss , grouse moss , deer moss , icelandic lobe, prickly

Description

Cetraria Icelandic, also known as Icelandic moss, is a medicinal plant belonging to the species of lichens. Despite its name, cetraria is common not only in northern countries, but even grows in Africa and Australia, not to mention European and Asian countries.

Cetraria, like other lichens, can be found both on the ground and on tree stumps. Most often, Icelandic moss grows in coniferous, mainly pine forests, in the tundra, in swampy areas, as well as in mountain ranges. Usually found on soils with a high content of sand, as well as on grassy slopes, on peaty soils, in lighted places. The peculiarity of the cetraria is that its appearance serves as a kind of signal about the ecological cleanliness of the area - this plant never occurs in conditions of air pollution.

This lichen is a perennial plant. In appearance, the cetraria looks like small bushes, usually they do not grow above 15 cm. The flat blades look like narrow ribbons, are bent in some places, covered with small cilia. The size of the blades and their color depend on factors environment. Under the influence of light, humidity, temperature, the cetraria can be brown or have a greenish tint, turning red at the base, and the underside of the lobes becomes beige to white, covered with light spots.

Cetraria can reproduce by transferring any part of the plant, but it grows extremely slowly, which is generally uncharacteristic for the lichen species.

Procurement and storage

For medicinal purposes, the thallus is harvested. Traditionally, the collection period for Icelandic moss is summer, it is possible to harvest it in the fall, in dry weather. The lichen thallus is detached from the soil, cleaned of contaminants and dried. The main difficulty in harvesting is the very process of cleaning the Icelandic moss from the ground and impurities, which is usually done manually. Drying can be carried out both in the shade and under sunbeams, and, of course, in industrial dryers. Raw materials for drying are laid out on paper or fabric bedding in a thin layer.

Ready-made raw materials of Icelandic cetraria can retain their beneficial properties for two years, subject to right conditions storage - in tightly closed containers, in a dry room at a cool air temperature. When stored in boxes, the raw materials are shifted with paper to prevent excessive moisture from getting in, as moss absorbs it like a sponge.

Raw materials suitable for consumption are distinguished by a peculiar aroma and a bitter taste. Once in the water, the cetraria becomes slimy. The broth after cooking and cooling resembles jelly in consistency.

Usage history

Like other lichens, the history of the medicinal use of cetraria goes back hundreds of years. The written evidence from the Middle Ages that has come down to our time reflects that Icelandic moss was used as a universal remedy for a wide range of diseases. Doctors from northern European countries advised cetraria to patients with colds, inflammation in respiratory system. Healing moss was a cure for different types cough and sore throat, decoctions were prepared from it for whooping cough, tuberculosis, bronchitis, asthma.

Among the Scandinavians, cetraria was a favorite remedy for the treatment of gastrointestinal ailments. Icelandic moss infusions have been used by healers to treat constipation, indigestion, dysentery, and to increase appetite. Cetraria-based remedies were prescribed for bleeding, and it was also believed that Icelandic moss calms excessive sexual excitability in women. In addition, the use of cetraria in the treatment of tumors, including malignant ones, was traditional. In general, Icelandic moss was valued for its high nutritional value and ability to boost the immune system.

Gadgets based healing lichen used as an external therapy for various skin diseases, acne, burns and ulcers, abscesses, purulent boils. Sometimes the moss itself, in its raw form, was applied to wounds to speed up their healing.

By the 19th century, cetraria was included in the vast majority of European pharmacopoeias. All doctors recognized its valuable antiseptic effects and it became a popular remedy for consumption.

In the 20th century research medicinal properties Icelandic moss were carried out in different countries, including Russia, several scientific works. It has been proven that cetraria has an effect similar to antibiotics - it is able to destroy bacteria. Especially valuable in this regard is usnic acid, which is released from cetraria - it affects tuberculosis bacteria, staphylococcal and streptococcal microorganisms. In the 1950s, the creation of the first pharmaceuticals based on these discoveries began. So, in the Soviet Union, sodium usninate was released - a medicine for the treatment of burns, wounds, to prevent the development of infection in the wound and accelerate skin regeneration.

There is evidence that dried and ground cetraria was used in the northern regions as an additive to flour and was called “bread moss”. It was believed that nutrients cetraria are well absorbed and have a general strengthening effect on the body.

And at present, there are a number of medicines that contain cetraria in one form or another, among them lozenges and cough syrups, medicinal teas and others.

Chemical composition

Cetraria is rich in various elements that exhibit biological activity. Nutritional properties are provided by the high content of carbohydrates in lichen. The raw material contains up to 80% polysaccharides, during the preparation of aqueous preparations, glucose and other nutrients are released from the cetraria.

For women, a decoction of cetraria helps to establish the proper functioning of the endocrine system, as well as get rid of mastopathy and cope with toxicosis. Cetraria is also used to combat excess weight - it normalizes the digestion process and has a slight laxative property.

Be careful, Cetraria is contraindicated in:

General recipe.

With pyelonephritis, cystitis, urethritis.

Tea.

With atony of the stomach and intestines, diarrhea, chronic constipation, gastritis, gastric ulcer, bronchial asthma, cough, bronchitis, lack of appetite.

With a breakdown, general exhaustion, as a general tonic.

With no appetite.

Jelly. The jelly is eaten daily for 1-2 months. It improves digestion, increases the overall tone of the body in chronic diseases of the respiratory and digestive organs, pulmonary tuberculosis, systemic lupus erythematosus, ENT diseases.

With bronchitis, colds.

With chronic colitis with constipation, peptic ulcer of the stomach and duodenum, with gastritis, diarrhea, cough. Externally used for skin diseases, burns, systemic lupus erythematosus, dermatoses, trophic ulcers in the form of lotions, compresses.

Extract. With constipation, intestinal inflammation, dysbacteriosis.

Jelly. After serious illnesses, with exhaustion, with a lack of weight.

With respiratory diseases, tuberculosis, bronchial asthma, pneumonia, whooping cough.

Colds and exhausting coughs are constant companions of autumn slush. However, at other times of the year it is quite possible to catch this unpleasant disease. But even a persistent cough can be treated with herbs. Icelandic moss is a healthy natural alternative to pharmacy "chemistry".

Description

Icelandic moss (Icelandic Cetraria) is a lichen that is considered an indicator of the environmental friendliness of the place in which it grows. It is the result of a symbiosis between a fungus and an alga, and biologically has nothing to do with classic moss. Contrary to the name, it is found throughout Europe, Asia, northern Africa and Australia. Grows in pine forests, sandy open areas of the tundra and forest tundra. Other names - prickly, reindeer moss, herbalist.

Iceland moss does not have distinct stems, leaves or flowers.. Its "body", which grows above the ground, is called the thallus. The thallus reaches a height of 10-15 cm, but sometimes less, so inexperienced collectors often pass by this medicinal lichen without even noticing it. The lobes covering the thallus are covered with dark hairs and have the shape of an irregular ribbon. The lower layers of the lichen are looser, they allow moisture, air and light to pass to the roots. Small fruiting bodies are formed at the tips of the blades. In them, pores ripen for reproduction.

Cetraria can grow in small islands, clinging roots to stumps, stones, fallen or living tree trunks. Often it grows over large areas, forming a continuous cover of a silvery, light brown or greenish-brown hue.

More than 10 unique biologically active components have been identified in the Icelandic moss:

• carbohydrates (up to 80%): lichenin, isolichenin;
• lichen acids: usnic, lichesteric, protolichesteric and others;
• trace elements: titanium, copper, gum, manganese, iodine;
• vitamins: A, C, B1, B12;
• Sahara;
• wax;
• pigments;
• bitter substance cetrarin (up to 3%);
• folic acid.

Useful properties of Icelandic moss

The bitter substance cetrarin is an important component of cetraria.. Sometimes it is advised to soak dry raw materials before use to get rid of bitterness.

Herbalists do not recommend doing this, because cetrarin stimulates the intestines, eliminates stagnant processes. Moreover, the effectiveness of the drug directly depends on the amount of bitterness in the raw material.

The mucous or starchy substance in the composition of the cetraria envelops the walls of the stomach and intestines. The plant has such a powerful anti-inflammatory property that it is considered a strong natural antibiotic. Sometimes it surpasses synthetic preparations in terms of the strength of its impact and fights bacteria, viruses and fungal infections.

Due to the rich composition of Icelandic moss, its preparations have an effect:

• antimicrobial;
• expectorant;

• anti-inflammatory;
• laxative;
• wound healing;
• diuretic;

• enveloping;
• tonic;
• cleansing.

Application in traditional medicine

Cetraria is mainly prescribed as an additive to drug treatment, although in some Western European countries this plant is used to develop drugs for HIV infection. Cetraria is sold in pharmacies in the form of dried raw materials or as part of dietary supplements. It is prescribed orally as a decoction (in water or milk), alcohol tincture or thick rich jelly with:

• respiratory diseases: acute respiratory diseases, laryngitis, whooping cough, bronchial asthma, runny nose;
• bowel dysfunction: prolonged diarrhea or constipation, loss of appetite, poisoning;
• recovery after long illness, with beriberi;
• treatment of streptococcal and staphylococcal infections.

Iceland moss has indications for external use. Outwardly, an oil or alcohol extract is prescribed for the treatment of purulent and lacerated wounds, eczema, and burns. Compresses help to get rid of diaper rash on the skin.

Additionally:

• A large amount of iodine makes this lichen a valuable medicine. for the treatment and prevention of thyroid diseases.
• Decoctions help get rid of chronic bronchitis smoker and even end this bad habit forever.

• Baths with decoction help to get rid of external manifestations allergies.
• Warm compresses with a decoction treat chest diseases even in infants.
• Alcohol tincture with water in the form of a rinse helps to dry the wounds of stomatitis and cure gum disease.

• For severe abdominal pain or poisoning, herbalists recommend using more effective method treatment: grind dry lichen into powder, take and drink a little water. And bitter infusion will also help from painful nausea in case of poisoning.

In pharmacies, you can find cough syrup, the main component of which isicelandic moss(instruction for use is attached). But you should not prescribe this natural drug to yourself. Treatment can be started only after consulting a doctor and making a diagnosis. In addition to syrup, cetraria is sold in tablets, lozenges for resorption, as part of a cream for the treatment of joint pain and ointment for rubbing in chest diseases.

According to the reviews of people who have tried Icelandic moss in different recipes, it medicinal properties are best revealed in decoctions. In case of pulmonary diseases, it is better to brew cetraria not with water, but with milk.

How to brew Icelandic cough moss:

1. Pour 1 tablespoon of dry raw materials into a small enamel mug.
2. Pour a glass of milk, cover with a lid and immediately put on the smallest fire.
3. Simmer under the lid for about half an hour, but check that the milk does not run away and does not burn.
4. Cool and drink warm before bed.

For bronchitis, tracheitis and other bronchial diseases, doctors also recommend taking a decoction.

Helpful information

The pronounced anti-inflammatory and vasoconstrictive properties of lichen are used in cosmetology:

• in the treatment of severe rosacea (blockage of pores);
• in the treatment of certain forms of rosacea;
• for wound healing and resorption of small scars after the treatment of boils;
• to combat swelling and dark circles under the eyes;
• to fight dandruff.

In modern cooking, there is again a fashion for dishes using old and almost forgotten ingredients. Icelandic moss is just one of these. Here are some recipes and ways to use it:

• Kissel is cooked from dried tsetraria. If you are not satisfied with bitterness, raw materials can be soaked in plain water for a while. Berries and spices are added to the broth: vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, mint. If the raw materials are brewed longer and insisted, the jelly hardens to the consistency of jelly.
• Vitamin pastes are prepared from dry raw materials. In such recipes, it is combined with your favorite spices, mustard, horseradish.
• Lichen fried in oil is served as a side dish for meat and fish.
• Northern peoples add cetraria powder to flour for baking bread.

In ancient times, the mountain peoples survived the winter thanks to the rich vitamin and organic composition of Icelandic cetraria. The harvested raw materials were boiled in sheep's milk to the consistency of jelly and eaten in the cold season. The decoction was not only nutritious, but also supported vitality. No less amazing is the history of the use of African tree bark, a decoction and preparations from which are prescribed today to restore and enhance male strength.

Contraindications

Icelandic moss has a large list of medicinal properties and has virtually no contraindications. People familiar with its healing properties have been taking it for years for the treatment of chronic diseases and for prevention. The only thing that was observed in patients was a gag reflex, as a reaction to a too bitter drink. Therefore, lichen is recommended to be brewed with milk or used in sweet syrups.

In some cases, there may be an individual intolerance to the components of the plant. This is especially important to consider during pregnancy. Therefore, before using drugs, it is better to consult with doctors.

How to collect and store a plant

Of course, you can collect Icelandic moss according to its image in the photo, but it’s better to go to harvest with knowledgeable people. Procurers usually gather in brigades and go on an expedition for several days. It is necessary to harvest raw materials competently - you cannot cut off large continuous areas of lichen.

Procurement rules:

• collect cetraria at the end of summer and at the beginning of autumn;
• a layer or a small spherical thallus is removed completely, along with the roots;
• the collected raw materials are not washed, they are thoroughly cleaned of soil, impurities of grass and needles of needles;
• the lichen is slightly crushed and dried in a dark place, constantly turning over;
• it is impossible to dry the collected lichen in the sun, when ultraviolet radiation hits it, useful substances are destroyed;
• harvested raw materials are stored for up to 3 years.

Share in the comments if you have ever collected or used Icelandic moss to treat diseases. Perhaps you know about other recipes for infusions, decoctions or dishes from this amazing lichen.