Iceland moss: medicinal properties and contraindications. Icelandic moss: benefits and harms, cooking recipes Icelandic moss: chemical composition and medicinal properties

In herbal medicine and pharmacology, many interesting plants are used. One of them is Iceland moss. It contains a lot of useful substances, which allows the plant to be used in the treatment of a wide range of diseases. Icelandic moss, the medicinal properties and contraindications of which have been carefully studied, is officially recognized as a pharmacological raw material. It is also successfully used for the manufacture of some pharmaceutical drugs.

Characteristic features

Icelandic Cetraria is the correct botanical name for Icelandic moss. Contrary to popular belief, cetraria is not a moss, but a lichen, from the Parmeliaceae family. It is a low growing shrub, greenish-brown in color. Depending on the growing conditions, it can have both a straight and creeping, branched stem. The lichen does not have leaves, they are replaced by narrow leathery lobes framed by cilia. On the wrong side, each blade is covered with white spots through which the cetraria absorbs air. At the base of the blade matte, bright red. A fully formed lichen is called a thallus. Its appearance is shown in the photo.

Biologically, Iceland moss is not exactly a plant. It is a symbiont of microscopic fungi and algae. Cetraria is an epiphyte, that is, it does not have a pronounced root system. The plant is able to change the color and shape of the thallus. With a lack of moisture or lighting, the lichen acquires a dark brown hue, the lobes stretch out and become narrower.

IMPORTANT! There is a common mistake in the title. Iceland moss is often referred to as Spanish moss, which is not true.

Range and features of growth

The plant is distributed throughout the world, but is more common in the northern regions. It grows in all climatic zones, except for arid regions. Cetraria also grows in Russia, in fairly large areas. You can meet her both in the central region and in Siberia, the Far East and the Caucasus. In Ukraine, Icelandic moss is found in the left-bank part of the country.

The lichen prefers sandy soils, on which it forms whole thickets. Prefers well drained soil and light, drought tolerant. It is located on the border of forests, in open tundra spaces and on peat bogs. Especially likes to settle in pine forests.

Icelandic moss, like any other lichen, is a kind of indicator of the ecological situation. It grows only in areas where there is no pollution of water and soil, and harmful emissions into the atmosphere are minimal. If pollution increases, the lichen quickly dies out.

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Self-harvesting of Icelandic moss does not require special skills, but must meet some requirements:

• It is recommended to collect the plant at the end of summer and until mid-autumn, during the dry period.
• You need to choose large, fully formed thalli. Plants are plucked by hand, breaking off only part of the thallus, without damaging the main stem and root system. Collect selectively so that there are no bald spots in the array.
• It is necessary to dry the moss in a shaded, well-ventilated place. During the drying process, it must be protected from water. For a quick result, you can use a special thermal dryer. An oven is also suitable for drying, where the raw materials must dry at a low temperature. Moss is not washed, only shaken off dust and large debris. Do it better with a brush.
• It is recommended to store dried moss in linen bags in a dark, cool place. Dry grass is stored for no more than 2 years, after which it loses most of its medicinal qualities.

ATTENTION! Since Iceland moss grows very slowly, harvesting must be neat and gentle.

Chemical composition

Icelandic moss grows for a very long time, so the biological elements in it are gradually concentrated. During growth, the following substances accumulate:

• Carbohydrates (mucus), about 80%. These are polysaccharides (lichenin, isolichenin), as well as sugars (glucose, galactose).
• Vitamins C, B 12.
• Trace elements (lead, zinc, silicon, cadmium, tin).
• Organic lichen acids (bitters). These are lichesteric, usnic, proto- and paralichesteric, cetraric, proto- and fumaroprotocetraric acids. They have antibacterial and antiseptic properties, enhance immunity and stimulate the activity of the digestive tract.
• Chitin. Contributes to the normalization of peristalsis in the gastrointestinal tract, is a biological sorbent.
• Gum.
• Wax.
• Protein.
• Fats.
• Pigments.

INTERESTING! Iceland moss can be eaten as it contains a large amount of easily digestible carbohydrates. In 1918, in Moscow, cetraria was part of rye bread.

Therapeutic action and methods of treatment

What is useful and has Leesland moss medicinal properties? Recipes, reviews of which you have heard, have an effective effect in various diseases and pathologies. In folk medicine, it is used as an antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory agent, recipes are in the form of tea, decoctions and tinctures. Icelandic moss is used, the indications for which are quite extensive, in the following cases:

With broncho-pulmonary diseases

Usnic acid contained in lichen is the strongest natural antibiotic. It is effective even against Koch's bacillus, the causative agent of tuberculosis. In folk medicine, a decoction is used that softens the cough, helping to thin the sputum and facilitates expectoration. It is used, as part of a complex treatment, for bronchitis, pneumonia, asthma, whooping cough and tuberculosis.

Remedies for pathologies of the respiratory system

Recipe 1. To alleviate the patient's condition with bronchitis, pneumonia, or during the treatment of bronchial asthma, a decoction of Icelandic moss will help. How to properly brew a plant? The traditional decoction is prepared as follows:

• 2 tbsp. l. dry moss pour 400 ml. boiling water.
• Slowly boil in a water bath for at least 5 minutes.
• Cool the finished broth for 30 minutes, then strain twice.

It is necessary to use a decoction of moss in a warm form. Drink 3 times a day, before meals, 100 ml. The course of treatment is from 5 days to 1 month.

Recipe 2. Icelandic moss helps with cough, emphysema and pulmonary tuberculosis when the decoction is prepared using the following technology:

• 2 tbsp. l. grind dry raw materials thoroughly, add 400 ml. milk, 1 tbsp. l. honey and 1 tbsp. l. butter.
• Bring the mixture slowly to a boil in a water bath.
• Strain the broth and drink it warm, in the morning and before going to bed, in the amount of 200 ml (1 glass). Continue treatment for no more than 15 days.
• Tea with cetraria and coltsfoot can cure even a strong cough. It is good to drink with whooping cough and obstructive bronchitis. Brew in a glass (boiling water) ½ tsp. moss and ½ tsp. coltsfoot. After 10 minutes, strain and dilute with 200 ml. boiled water. You need to drink in small sips, with each fit of coughing.

With inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract

The mucus in Icelandic moss coats the damaged lining of the stomach or intestines, making it easier to digest and promote healing. The antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties of the plant make it possible to treat gastric and duodenal ulcers. With toxicosis, a decoction of cetraria envelops the stomach, preventing vomiting spasms. Usnic acid allows you to get rid of gastritis by destroying its causative agent - the bacterium Helicobacter (Helicobacter pylori). The bitterness of the cetrar group stimulates appetite and digestive activity.

Treatment and prevention of the gastrointestinal tract

Recipe 1. For the treatment of gastritis, gastric or duodenal ulcers, take a decoction. It is prepared from both dried and fresh moss. 4 tbsp. l. cetraria pour 600 ml. water and boil over low heat for 10 minutes, with the lid closed. The broth is drunk before meals, during the day, dividing it into 3 parts.

Recipe 2. Kissel from Icelandic moss will help stimulate digestion and peristalsis. It is cooked like this:

• 3 art. l. dried moss and 1 tbsp. l. honey pour 700 ml of cold water.
• The mixture is infused for 1.5 hours, then slowly brought to a boil.
• Ready jelly is immediately filtered and drunk warm, with meals.

Recipe 3. For diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and diarrhea, you can resort to using alcohol tincture. To prepare it, 200 ml of medical alcohol is added to 40 g of cetraria. Infuse the product in a tightly sealed container for at least 10 days in a dark, cool place. Take tincture before meals, no more than 15 drops.

For external skin lesions

The use of Icelandic moss in folk medicine can effectively treat skin affected by burns, or in the presence of wounds, ulcers, acne, dermatitis. Icelandic moss polysaccharides have a starch fraction. When applied to the skin, polysaccharides, together with mucus and usnic acid, provide an enveloping effect, antiseptic and healing effect. Damaged skin is washed with a traditional decoction of cetraria. Compresses and lotions regularly applied to the affected areas also help well.

With inflammation of the mucous membranes of the oral cavity and nasopharynx

The antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effect of Icelandic moss is used to treat stomatitis, tonsillitis, laryngitis and the common cold. To do this, prepare a remedy with which the nose is washed 3 times a day. The composition of the liquid, in addition to cetraria, includes St. John's wort, sage and Japanese Sophora. All ingredients are taken in equal proportions (1 tablespoon each), the mixture is poured with boiling water and boiled for 20 minutes, over very low heat. The broth is cooled and carefully filtered.

To strengthen immunity

Icelandic moss promotes recuperation, providing a general strengthening effect, enhances the antiviral response of immune cells when viruses and allergens penetrate. For preventive purposes, it is recommended to take 10 drops of tincture from cetraria once a day.

In violation of the thyroid gland

Normalizes and restores the functions of the thyroid gland, with daily use of the composition, based on honey and kefir. To prepare it, take 1.5 tbsp. l moss and 1.5 tbsp. l honey. Add 250 ml of curdled milk or kefir, mix in a blender. This remedy should be used for thyroid , drinking it completely in the morning, before meals.

With mastopathy

It has a resolving effect on the nodes formed in the mammary glands. To get rid of the problem, it is recommended to use a decoction of Icelandic moss daily, as well as use a decoction for compresses.

With oncological diseases

Iceland moss contains substances that have an antioxidant effect and resist the penetration of free radicals into the body. This helps slow down the growth of cancer cells.

For acute and chronic prostatitis

Usnic acid completely destroys bacterial microorganisms that are the causative agents of infections and inflammatory processes in the genitourinary organs. The enveloping, antiseptic and wound-healing properties of the plant help stop the development of prostatitis and restore the body during the rehabilitation period.

With prostatitis, a decoction of Icelandic moss, pine pollen, nettle, sage and horsetail has proven itself well. All ingredients are mixed in equal proportions (½ tsp each), 500 ml of boiling water is poured, and subjected to a 20-minute heat treatment in a water bath. The broth is cooled and filtered. Drink this remedy for 1 tbsp. l 3-4 times a day for 2-3 months.

ADVICE! Cetraria activates digestion and normalizes the endocrine system. It is very effective for weight loss.

Pharmacy funds

Based on Icelandic moss, several drugs are produced:

• Cough syrup Gerbion, Pectolvan. Contains concentrated Icelandic moss slime extract. They have antitussive, immunomodulating, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects. Alleviate dry cough and hoarseness.
• Cetracept tablets and Isla-moos lozenges. Designed for absorption. They relieve spasms of the bronchi with a dry cough, help in the treatment of laryngitis, pharyngitis and bronchitis.
• Cream Iceland moss. It has a therapeutic warming effect, both for colds and joint diseases.
• Ointment Eosin. Antiseptic, effectively heals burns, wounds, eczema.
• Pharmacy fee. Used to prepare decoctions and tinctures.

A detailed description of the preparations is given in the instruction attached to each medicinal product.

Contraindications

There are very few contraindications for the use of Icelandic moss. With caution, it is recommended to use it in the treatment of pregnant and lactating women. It is not advisable to use alcohol-containing folk remedies for children. In the presence of autoimmune diseases, funds based on cetraria are contraindicated. In case of violation of the dosage or individual intolerance, an allergic reaction may occur. Therapy is allowed only after consulting a specialist.

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 is never found 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 dimensions of the blades and their color depend on environmental factors. 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 the sun, 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 useful properties for two years if the correct storage conditions are observed - 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 the respiratory system. Healing moss was a medicine for various types of coughs and sore throats, 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.

Lotions based on medicinal lichen were used as 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, studies of the medicinal properties of Icelandic moss were carried out in different countries, including Russia, and several scientific papers were published. 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 the nutrients of 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.

This unique organism from the kingdom of Mushrooms represents a symbiosis or cohabitation of two different representatives. In the process of evolution, they merged into a single organism, which is included in the scientific classification as Icelandic moss or Icelandic cetraria.

What is interesting about this lower plant, what medicinal properties it has, whether it has contraindications. Folk recipes for the treatment of diseases, using decoctions and infusions prepared on its basis.

Nature has brought together an organism from the kingdom of fungi and blue-green algae. She gave them amazing healing properties of a natural antibiotic. Moss is able to activate the vital forces of the human body and prolong its longevity.

Iceland moss: medicinal properties and contraindications

Cetraria or Iceland moss ( Cetraria islandica) belongs to the genus Cetraria, but more often it is called not a moss, but a lichen. Here is such a confusion with this plant. This representative of lichens growing on the soil or on the bark of old stumps loves sandy soils warmed by the sun and a clean ecological atmosphere. It grows near swamps, in pine forests, forest-tundra zones, tundra of Eurasia, southern Australia and Africa.

Botanical description of a representative of lower plants

A perennial representative of leaf lichens forms upright bushes, up to 10 cm high, forming compact clumps. Instead of a stem, lichens have thalli or thalli that look flat, having grooved-folded lobes.

The thallus is leathery-cartilaginous to the touch, in a greenish-brownish color, covered with short cilia on top. The lower part of the thallus is lighter in color, strewn with white spots with tiny holes (stomata) used for breathing. See photo:

Lichen reproduces by pieces of thallus. In addition, a group (fruiting bodies) is formed inside the thalli, consisting of algae and fungi cells. The skin of the thallus bursts, the cells are thrown out, carried by the wind.

When raw materials are being prepared. Lichen thalli are collected in the summer season. They are torn off the soil, cleaned, dried well. Drying in special dryers is possible. Since the raw material is hygroscopic and strongly absorbs moisture, it is stored in a glass container, under a tight lid, in a dry place. Cooked decoctions and infusions have a bitter taste, a peculiar smell.

The chemical composition of the Icelandic cetraria

The chemical composition of the representative of lower plants is dominated by:

• carbohydrates, starch, making up 80%;
• up to 13% sugars;
• about 3% proteins;
• 2-3% organic acids, represented by rare lichen acids;
• up to 2% fat;
• 1% - wax;
• up to 4% cadmium;
• up to 8% pigment substances.

There are macroelements in the composition, from which manganese, iron, boron with copper, chromium with nickel are released. In its thalli, the plant is able to accumulate trace elements: tin, silicon, lead, zinc, cadmium. The composition contains vitamins of ascorbic acid, B vitamins, carotenes.

Vitamin C accumulated by lichen is in an easily digestible form for the human body. In dry raw materials, it remains unchanged for up to three years, which was confirmed by the studies of Russian doctors who worked in the north.

Thalluses concentrate polysaccharides inside themselves, when brewed with boiling water, they go into solution, forming jelly-like clots. Lichenin and isolichenin are distinguished from the group of polysaccharides.

Medicinal properties

Icelandic moss, the medicinal properties and medicinal effect of which determines its chemical composition, is used not only in folk medicine, but also in traditional medicine. The indigenous population of the tundra zone, northern forests use it as an antibacterial agent.

Watch a video about the use of Icelandic moss for treatment:

Its saturation with vitamin and mineral composition activates the immune forces of the body, helps to cope with colds, strengthening the state of internal organs and systems, which helps to rejuvenate the body.

Usnic acid is a natural antibiotic

The benefits of the plant largely depend on the presence of specific organic, lichen substances, of which usnic acid is a representative. It is specific because, being a product of secondary metabolites of lichens, it is not found in organisms of other groups.

• No less useful in inflammatory processes pine buds:

It is characterized by activity properties:

• antiviral, insecticidal;
• anti-tuberculosis, analgesic;
• antibiotic.

Lichens produce a large amount of usnic acid (up to 8%), the presence of which is noted in the dry raw materials of thalli or thalli. When collecting raw materials, it is important to take into account that its concentration in thalli varies with the seasons.

The largest number is observed in late spring and summer, lower in winter and autumn. It depends on the number of sunny days, the solstice, temperature fluctuations, solar radiation, and the habitat of the lichen.

Preparations with Icelandic moss kill the pathogenic flora in the human body, are especially active against bacteria that live in the respiratory system. Therefore, they are used as an aid in the treatment of pulmonary diseases, including tuberculosis.

In addition to the listed beneficial properties inherent in usnic acid, the plant has other medicinal effects:

• anti-inflammatory,
• immunomodulatory,
• antioxidant,
• expectorant,
• regenerating,
• enveloping and astringent,
• rejuvenating.

Due to the range of medicinal properties, cetraria moss is used to treat sinusitis, sinusitis, rhinitis, acute respiratory viral infections, tuberculosis, tracheitis, bronchitis, cough, whooping cough, asthma.

Drugs prepared on the basis of moss thalli are used to treat children's whooping cough, frontal sinusitis, stomach ulcers and gastritis, atony of the digestive organs, and manifestations of acne on the skin.

Apply infusions with decoctions as an activation of immunity, with anemia, general exhaustion of the body, diaper rash, burns. Regenerative properties have a positive effect on the healing of wounds, rashes, abscesses, skin ulcers. In Russia, thalli used to be used to treat open wounds, making lotions or wrapping around the wound.

With poisoning and intestinal disorders, the astringent property helps. Causes compaction of intestinal contents, slowing down peristalsis, promotion of feces, easing pain.

Moss is effective in inflammatory diseases in the intestines. In addition, it provides productive treatment of diseases associated with:

• with thyroid dysfunction
• manifestations of toxicosis during pregnancy,
• with the formation of seals in the mammary glands (mastitis),
• with toothache and insomnia,

which pass faster, with the additional appointment of drugs from the cetraria.

Moss cetraria indications for use

Based on an extensive list of useful and medicinal properties, the scope of lichen is not limited to medical indications.

1. Moss is the main food source, along with reindeer moss, for reindeer.
2. The indigenous people of the north used to use the crushed plant as baby diapers. The plant absorbs moisture well, so diapers were sprinkled with frayed thalli.
3. Moss is used for cooking in the Scandinavian countries, lichen thalli powder is added when baking bread, sometimes the ratio of flour to powder is adjusted to (1: 1). Now biologically active additives and medicinal preparations are produced from the plant.

Application in pharmacology

The medical industry makes extensive use of the unique properties of Icelandic moss in various formulations. In pharmacies, you can buy not only dried raw materials, but also cough syrup, lozenges, lozenges, cough drops, capsules, tablets.

In capsules and tablets, moss is offered as dietary supplements, for the treatment or prevention of diseases of the digestive system, respiration, and skin diseases.

The drug Evozin with an extract of lichen acids was patented in the 50s of the last century in Germany. It was the first drug with a pronounced antimicrobial activity, which was used to treat lupus erythematosus.

The Japanese patented a lichen preparation aimed at curing actinomycosis. In Finland, with the help of the active substances of lichen, drugs were obtained that are used for the common cold, cough, asthma (with the addition of cinquefoil, horsetail, bearberry, juniper, willow bark).

In the Soviet Union, using usnic acid, they also began to produce the drug in the form of oil and alcohol solutions - sodium usnitate. It was recommended as an antimicrobial agent for external use (purulent wounds, cracks, burns).

Long researched drug Binan, which showed high activity on different strains of Staphylococcus aureus and hemolytic. But due to its toxicity, it was recommended only for external use.

Balm Binan- this is a symbiosis of fir balsam with sodium ustinat used in surgical practice for tissue transplantation. He effectively coped with the infection, promoted rapid healing.

It was used to cure cervical erosion, numerous reviews of women speak of the productive properties of the balm in healing tissues after cauterization. Purulent mastitis responded well to treatment, cracks in the nipples of women in labor, surgical sutures, and skin diseases quickly healed. The drug is not currently used in medicine.

Medications

But modern medicine massively uses German-made drugs using Icelandic moss:

Bronchial plus for children - cetraria syrup with chamomile, ascorbic acid. Children are given three times a day, a tablespoon of cough, used for chronic and acute bronchi, colds, flu.

Tea granulate (Bronchialtee 400) in the form of an aqueous extract of cetraria, fennel, marshmallow and thyme, linden and sage leaves. The instruction recommends using it for colds and chronic bronchitis. Drink up to three times a day, one cup.

PastillesIsla— mint pastillen for resorption, are recommended for dryness of the mucous membranes of the throat, nose, asthmatic, bronchial cough, hoarseness of the throat. Take several lozenges per day.

TeaSalus Bronchial Tee #8 in its composition, along with lichen, contains fennel fruits, flowers of linden, mullein, primrose, nettle, marigold, raspberry leaves, thyme grass, knotweed. It helps with inflammation of the respiratory system, easing cough, thinning sputum. Take hot up to five times.

Syrup "Icelandic Moss" Produced in different names (depending on the manufacturer). Known "Gebion", "Pectolvan" .. Syrups are recommended for dry coughs, because it envelops the mucous membrane of the throat, relieves irritation, softens and soothes. Gerbion is recommended for children after a year, and pectolvan - from 12 years. Syrups have contraindications, so before use, you must read the instructions. An appointment for treatment must be obtained from a doctor.

In cream with cetraria includes additional ingredients (wax, honey, bear fat, extracts of St. John's wort, calendula, essential oils). Indications for use are indicated in the instructions: cream for skin lesions, bruises, wounds, dislocations, joint pain, coughs and colds, as rubbing.

Application in traditional medicine

Cetraria received wider use in folk medicine. It is convenient that drugs can be prepared at home, using to cure ailments. Below are the recipes for use.

Icelandic cough moss

When coughing of various origins, traditional medicine has long used cetraria as an independent remedy and preparing fees with medicinal herbs. To improve the taste and therapeutic effect, honey is added.

Decoction with milk or water

Decoctions prepared from dried raw materials of lichen thalli are drunk hot.

• Five minute decoction in a water bath, prepared from 500 ml of liquid (milk or water), a spoonful of dry raw materials. After removing the drug from the bath, insist for 30 minutes, then drink with honey.
• Yugoslav tea recipe, how to brew. A spoonful of dried tea moss is taken into a glass of boiling water. Drink hot tea before bed.
• Preparing a 30 minute decoction in a water bath, from a glass of boiling water and a teaspoon of tea thalli. Drink at night with bronchitis, pneumonia.

Infusion recipe

From 2 teaspoons of dry raw materials, 250 ml of cold water, you can prepare an infusion. The poured raw materials are put on a slow fire, heated, but not brought to a boil. Remove from heat, an hour or two still stand for insisting. When cooling, the drug, due to the presence of mucus in the thallus, acquires a jelly-like state.

The infusion is used to treat diseases associated with the respiratory system, cough symptoms, and for the treatment of the gastrointestinal tract. It is used as a tonic and tonic.

How the tincture is prepared

Pour 100 g of dry lichen thalli with vodka so that the raw material is completely covered. After 7 days of infusion in a dark place, the tincture will be ready. It remains only to filter it.

Use as a general tonic

Since lichen improves immunity, adding vitality to the body, it is prescribed as an adjuvant for all diseases. When mixing with appropriate medicinal plants, contraindications should be taken into account.

Elixir of health and longevity with cetraria

• 400 ml of kefir or yogurt,
• 3 art. spoons of cetraria powder,
• 3 tablespoons of honey.

Honey, with its immunity, can be replaced with sea buckthorn syrup or any jam. You can drink for breakfast, for dinner. Helps restore the functions of the stomach, intestines, thyroid gland, activates the immune forces of the body, adds energy.

For stomach ulcer a mixture of lichen, flax seeds, marshmallow root is prepared in half a tablespoon per 400 ml of boiling water. Keep on fire for 7 minutes and take 50 ml several times a day. For the treatment of ulcers, a decoction is prepared and such a decoction, with flax seed (1: 1);

Cetraria tea for whooping cough. It is recommended to add thyme to the lichen (1: 1). Take half a spoonful of the table mixture for 250 ml of boiled water. It is aged on a slow fire for 5-6 minutes, cool down. Drink replacing tea, a cup, three times a day.

Milk decoction for bronchitis prepared from a tablespoon of raw materials in a glass of milk. Aged in a water bath for 30 minutes, taken at night, hot.

Watch the video: Icelandic cetraria moss - a recipe for longevity

With atony of the stomach, a jelly-like mass is prepared from 750 ml of water, three tablespoons of table dry thalli. It is aged on a weak fire for about 30 minutes. After cooling, the mass is eaten in a day, divided into portions.

For sore joints use the collection of cetraria with birch, linden, sweet clover, lemon balm (in equal shares);

With stomatitis powdered raw materials are used. Make powder applications after surgery in the nasal cavity. The powder dries the mucosa well, kills all pathogenic and putrefactive microbes;

Benefits for men. Traditional medicine offers drinking from lichen to treat impotence, prostatitis and other infections of the genitourinary system.

For the treatment of impotence, mix cetraria, lemon balm, orchis, flaxseed (1:1:1:1); Or they prepare a mixture (in equal proportions) of toadflax, lichen, lemon balm, orchid tubers. A tablespoon of the mixture is brewed with 250 ml of boiling water. After a 2-hour infusion, they drink replacing tea, 3 glasses a day.

For women lichen is recommended in the form of a decoction, tea for the treatment of bacterial colpitis, mastopathy, as an auxiliary agent.

For kids drinks based on lichen have a beneficial effect on colds and infectious diseases (bronchitis, whooping cough). An infusion is used to treat skin diseases (burns, dermatitis, wound healing).

Infusions, decoctions, tinctures strengthen health. They have a beneficial effect on the work of organs and systems, improve overall well-being. The use of drugs inside, significantly improves the condition of the skin, eliminating cosmetic problems (acne, acne). In addition to internal use, they are used as a lotion.

Possible harm and contraindications

Scientists note that the use of preparations with Icelandic moss cannot cause harm to the body, if the indicated dosage is not violated during treatment.

• high body temperature
• during acute exacerbations of any disease,
• with autoimmune diseases,
• use with caution in case of hyperacidity,
• during pregnancy and lactation,
• with individual intolerance.

A unique individual from the lower plant kingdom, Iceland moss, due to its medicinal properties, has the rare effect of a natural antibiotic. Given its contraindications, you can provide constant support to your body, keeping youth and health for years to come.

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Cetraria Icelandic or Icelandic moss is a perennial lichen belonging to the Parmeliev family.

Description

The plant is a symbiosis of two microorganisms - algae and fungi. Both microorganisms are so closely related to each other that they represent a single holistic organism.

Cetraria moss outwardly represents upright bushes with irregularly ribbon-shaped lobes, narrow, leathery-cartilaginous, reaching 0.3-0.5 cm in width and 10 cm in height, greenish-brown in color, with short dark cilia. The edges of the blades are slightly wrapped up.

Sometimes at the ends of the lobes develop apothecia, or fruiting bodies, plate-shaped with a slightly serrated edge, brownish in color. Spore bags develop in apothecia. Spores are colorless, unicellular, epileptic in shape, 8 pieces in each bag.

Distribution of Icelandic cetraria

Cetraria moss is widespread in Australia, America, Asia and Europe. It is found in Central and Northern Europe, in the forest zone and tundra of Siberia, in Ukraine - in the Carpathians. In Europe, it grows in the Alps, the Pyrenees and the Balkans. In the northern part of Russia, it is more common in the European part. It grows in the mountains of the Far East, Sayan, Altai and the Caucasus. It is a typical representative of barren open spaces and pine forests. It grows in the tundra, in the highlands (up to an altitude of 1500 m above sea level and above), on grassy and rocky areas, in mountain forests, high-mountain glades.

Cetraria prefers sandy unshaded areas, forming pure thickets. It can be found in heather thickets, where it grows in small groups, and in swampy areas.

Collection and preparation of medicinal raw materials of cetraria

For medicinal purposes, dried thallus of cetraria is used. It has a bitter-mucilaginous taste and a slight peculiar smell. Dry the thallus in the shade or in the sun, laying it out in a thin layer on cloth or paper. Harvesting of raw materials is carried out mainly in the summer.

Raw materials are stored in tightly closed jars or in boxes with paper lining in a dark, dry, cool place.

Chemical composition

The study of the chemical composition of cetraria began several hundred years ago, and today it is quite well studied.

The thallus consists mainly of carbohydrates, among which isolichenin, lichenin, umbilicin, mannitol galactomannate, chitin, sucrose, erythritol, hemicellulose and others are present.

The thallus of the Icelandic moss is capable of accumulating up to 80% of polysaccharides, which, when extracted with hot water, dissolve, forming a thick mass. When hydrolyzed, lichenin yields glucose.

Cetraria moss contains organic acids, which are called lichen acids. It is the acids that give the plant a bitter taste and determine its antibiotic and tonic properties.

In addition to acids, the thallus contains proteins, gum, wax, fats, ascorbic acid, vitamin B12, pentacyclic triterpene fridelin, naphthoquinone (juglone), minerals and pigments.

An interesting fact is that cetraria moss contains antiscorbutic vitamin C in an easily digestible form, and it is stored in a dried plant for three years.

The use of Icelandic cetraria in folk medicine

There is evidence that the plant was used for medical purposes in ancient Egypt, two thousand years BC.

In the Middle Ages, Icelandic cetraria was widely used in folk medicine in the countries of Northern Europe - Sweden, Norway, Iceland. It was used as an enveloping remedy for bronchitis and colds.

In the form of decoctions and infusions in the Scandinavian countries, the plant was used to stimulate appetite, as well as a tonic, nourishing and emollient.

Icelandic cetraria was widely used in the treatment of pulmonary tuberculosis, laryngitis, whooping cough, bronchial asthma, bronchitis and other bronchopulmonary diseases.

Cetraria moss was used for malignant neoplasms, for bleeding, and also as a remedy that can suppress excessive sexual excitability in women.

Externally, in the form of lotions, cetraria was used for ulcers, wounds, burns, abscesses, acne, boils, microbial eczema.

The use of Icelandic cetraria in official medicine

As a medicinal raw material, the use of Icelandic cetraria began in the 17th century. During the second half of the 18th and the first half of the 19th centuries, the use of cetraria moss in official medicine was very common. This plant was a traditional remedy in the treatment of pulmonary tuberculosis, and the thallus was part of many medicines.

The first pharmaceutical product based on lichen acids was created in Germany in the 50s of the 20th century and was called Evozin. It had antimicrobial activity due to the presence of usnic and evernic acids in it. It was prescribed for the treatment of lupus erythematosus and other diseases caused by pathogenic microorganisms.

Against pulmonary tuberculosis, German scientists proposed the drug Eosin-2, which, in addition to usnic and everrnic acids, included such lichen acids as caperic, physodic, atronaric.

A mixture of streptomycin and usnic acid has been successfully used for skin diseases and tuberculosis.

An antibiotic agent from cetrarium has been developed in Japan and is used in the treatment of actinomycosis.

In therapeutic practice, Icelandic cetraria has also found application, due to its expectorant and softening properties, due to the high content of mucous substances in it. It is used for many bronchopulmonary diseases.

In Finland, a method for obtaining a remedy for the common cold, cough and asthma is patented from cetraria, using dandelion, extracts from yarrow grass, cinquefoil rhizomes, coltsfoot grass, willow bark, bearberry leaves, juniper fruits.

In the USSR in 1956, a preparation of sodium usninate based on usnic acid was obtained, which was used as an antimicrobial agent in the treatment of cracks, burns and wounds. On the basis of sodium usninate, the drug Balsam Binan was released.

Many other medicines are also known, which include cetraria:

• Bronchical plus for children (cough syrup);
• Bronchialtee 400 (a tea drink used for colds);
• Isla-Mint Pastillen (cough lozenges);
• Salus Bronchial-Tee (tea for inflammation of the respiratory organs);

Contraindications to the use of Icelandic Cetraria

The use of Icelandic cetraria and preparations containing it is contraindicated during pregnancy and lactation, with stomach ulcers, and also with gastritis with high acidity.

Not every medicinal plant can boast the same power of medicinal potential as Icelandic Cetraria, popularly known as "Icelandic moss".

Knowing and skillfully using the medicinal properties and contraindications of Icelandic moss, you can almost completely restore the functionality of the respiratory system - in any form of damage.

The unique possibilities of Icelandic moss do not end there - there are many more ways to use its healing properties if you need to restore human health.

Icelandic cetraria is not considered moss in the conventional sense of the word, since it is a symbiosis of two plant forms - a fungus and an algae.

The properties of each of the forms are absolutely opposite. It can be said that their community is built on the mutual complementation of each other with the qualities necessary for development. Algae have the ability to synthesize organic substances that the fungus needs for nutrition. In turn, the fungus provides the algae with valuable trace elements.

Each new true lichen is formed only after the cells of a certain type of algae have combined with cetraria spores.

Despite the geographical reference indicated in the name of the plant, Icelandic moss can be found not only in Iceland. Its habitat is tundra, forest-tundra and swamps, pine forests and moorlands.

Therefore, the Icelandic Cetraria is considered “their” plant not only by the inhabitants of Europe, but also by Asia, Australia and even Africa. However, it was the Icelanders who were the first to identify the medicinal properties of lichen, who used the plant as a dietary supplement.

Official medicine became interested in the healing effects of cetraria only in the 18th century.

Using Icelandic moss for medicinal purposes, there is no doubt about its environmental friendliness. The main condition without which plant growth is impossible is clean air, unpolluted by industrial waste.

Medicinal properties of Icelandic moss

The healing power of Icelandic moss is due to its composition, which without exaggeration can be called unique:

• lichenin and isolichenin are polysaccharides, the main carbohydrate component, which determines the high nutritional value of the plant and its gelling properties;
• lichen acids are the main "secret" ingredient of the plant, produced by its mycobiont. Usnic acid is a specific substance, a product of lichen metabolism. Provides antibiotic, analgesic, antiviral, anti-tuberculosis and insecticidal action;
• trace elements - zinc, tin, lead, cadmium and silicon, iodine, iron, copper, manganese and titanium;
• glucose and galactose;
• organic substances, lipids - proteins, fats, wax, gum;
• vitamins A, C and B12.

Substances in lichen have a powerful healing effect on burns, ulcers and rashes, chronic runny nose, overweight, chest tightness, impotence, anorexia and dystrophy, dental problems, insomnia, constipation and diarrhea.

Usnic acid in the composition of Icelandic moss is capable of not only suppressing, but also destroying the main causative agent of tuberculosis - Koch's bacillus.

Indications for use

Immunomodulatory, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, choleretic and absorbent properties of Icelandic moss are used in the treatment of diseases of the respiratory and digestive systems, as well as to eliminate dermatological problems.

Means from cetraria help cleanse the blood and lymph, and are recommended for use as an antidiabetic and oncoprotective drug.

The use of moss allows you to successfully fight against staphylococci and streptococci, eliminate cough and hoarseness of the throat, prevent the development of infections and protect the intestinal mucosa from damage by pathogenic microorganisms.

In addition, Icelandic moss has the ability to accumulate iodine, receiving it from the environment, so the use of the plant is effective in the treatment of diseases of the endocrine system.

Against cough

Due to the unique healing properties and antibiotic activity, Icelandic cough moss is most in demand. Mucus, which is formed when lichen is brewed from polysaccharides, provides an enveloping effect on inflamed areas and effectively protects the lining of the respiratory tract from irritation.

Cetraric acid has a powerful antimicrobial and immunomodulatory effect. And usnic acid kills gram-positive bacteria.

Decoctions of Icelandic moss relieve inflammation, heal damage to the respiratory mucosa and provide a calming, softening and expectorant effect.

The main indications for the use of cetraria in pathologies of the respiratory system:

• bronchitis;
• whooping cough;
• asthma;
• tuberculosis;
• pneumonia.

No less effective is Icelandic moss in the treatment of diseases associated with lesions of the upper respiratory tract - viral infections, tonsillitis, tonsillitis, laryngitis and common colds.

The optimal therapeutic result in the fight against cough is achieved by ingestion of lichen syrup. To prepare it, a tablespoon of finely chopped lichen is steamed with boiling water and insisted. Drink, adding milk, sugar or honey to taste, several large sips three times a day.

The unique substances in the composition of lichen have an antibiotic power that exceeds the capabilities of pharmaceuticals.

From allergies

The use of Icelandic Cetraria allows you to get rid of attacks of seasonal allergies in a few days. The therapeutic effect is achieved not only by ingesting a decoction of the plant, but also with the help of therapeutic baths with the addition of cetraria extract.

For constipation

The normalization of the stool is one of the expected effects provided by the Icelandic moss. To eliminate constipation, an infusion from the plant is used. To do this, a glass of finely chopped lichen is poured with two liters of boiled water and kept for a day. Take three times a day for a glass of infusion.

For weight loss

Due to the ability of Icelandic moss to influence metabolic processes, it can be used to regulate weight even with obesity. The recipe for using the plant is simple - just replace one of the meals with lichen jelly.

To do this, one part of the lichen is mixed with three parts of water and boiled for three hours until the plant is completely boiled. Then the broth is filtered and cooled. The resulting jelly can be mixed with berries or added to dishes - soups, dough, meat or fish.

In its natural form, the plant has a pronounced bitter taste. To get rid of bitterness, the lichen is soaked for 12 hours in water with the addition of soda. For 10 liters of water, take 7 tablespoons of soda.

The use of Icelandic moss for medicinal purposes

For the treatment of various diseases, various forms of remedies prepared from cetraria are used - decoctions, syrups, kissels, teas, extracts and fees. The most common method of treatment is with a decoction. If you properly brew Icelandic moss, its valuable properties will turn into a decoction.

How to brew Icelandic moss?

The standard proportion for making a decoction of cetraria is a spoonful of moss per half liter of boiling water. For five minutes, the product is boiled in a water bath, then left for half an hour alone. After the specified time, the broth is filtered.

For oral administration, instead of water, you can take milk. For the treatment of external surfaces, it is more convenient to use a water decoction.

Traditional medicine recipes

Traditional medicine recipes are distinguished by a large selection of methods for using moss.

Due to the high concentration of medicinal components, the extract from the plant has a special effect.

To obtain an extract from cetraria, a liter of cold water is added to 100 g of the plant and kept for a day. Then boil in a water bath until half of the original volume remains. Apply as needed - adding to drinks or food, or as a bath additive.

You can also make tea from Icelandic moss. The proportions, method of preparation and intake do not differ from those used when brewing regular tea.

Pharmacy medicines

Iceland moss is a plant officially recognized by traditional medicine.

Based on it, several types of cough medicines have been created:

• Pectolvan Phyto- liquid alcohol extract of cetraria. It has an expectorant, liquefying and antispasmodic effect;
• isla moos- lozenges. Indicated for use in diseases of the throat and upper respiratory tract;
• Herbion- Iceland moss syrup. Provides antitussive, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effect in case of lesions of the respiratory system;
• isla mint- gel lozenges with the addition of mint oil. Indicated for throat infections.

Contraindications for use

The healing power of Icelandic moss is enormous. And its use has no contraindications or age restrictions. Lichen has been successfully used to treat pregnant women, young children and the elderly.

Moreover, Icelandic moss is recommended for use in case of exhaustion and to restore tone in case of extreme weakening of the body.

The unique Icelandic moss deserves to be in every home first aid kit - after all, one plant can replace dozens of pharmaceutical medicines.