Dream Interpretation Udilova 

Iceland moss - medicinal properties and contraindications. medicinal plants

Icelandic Cetraria is a lichen belonging to the Parmeliaceae family. It is also known as Iceland moss. This is a medicinal lichen.

The Latin name for the lichen is Cetraria islandica.

The thallus of this lichen resembles loose sod. Its height is 10-15 centimeters. The thallus consists of flat lobes, and in some places they can fold into a gutter.

The lobes are irregularly ribbon-shaped, flat, narrow, leathery-cartilaginous in structure, with dark short cilia. Depending on the illumination, the color of the blades can be brown or green-brown. The edges of the blades are slightly bent upwards.

The lower surface of the lichen has a lighter color - it is light brown, sometimes it can be almost white with a lot of white spots and gaps in the bark through which air penetrates.

Fruiting bodies are formed at the tips of the expanded lobes. Their shape is saucer-shaped, the color is brown. The diameter of the fruiting bodies is 1.5 centimeters, they are flat or slightly concave in shape. The edges are slightly serrated.

Places of growth of Icelandic cetraria.

Cetraria Icelandic is found in Europe, Asia, Australia and Africa. Icelandic cetraria settles in pine forests, tundra, forest tundra, next to swamps. This is a characteristic representative of ground lichens.

This lichen can grow on old stumps or directly on the soil. As a rule, they settle in unshaded sandy places. Sometimes these lichens form thickets. Cetraria Icelandic can only grow in clean ecology, in places with unpolluted air.

The chemical composition of the Icelandic cetraria.

The thallus of the Icelandic cetraria contains about 80% carbohydrates, mainly lichenin and isolichenin. In addition, the composition of this lichen includes lactose, glucose, wax, fats and lichen acids - lichesteric, usnic, fumarprotocentric and protolichesteric. It is the acids that provide antibiotic and tonic properties, and also give the lichen a bitter taste.

In addition, the lichen thallus contains vitamin B12 and ascorbic acid in an easily digestible form. Antiscorbutic vitamin C is stored in a dry plant for 3 years.

Medicinal properties of Icelandic cetraria.

Preparations made from Icelandic lichen have antiseptic properties. In medicine, the sodium salt of usnic acid, called sodium usninate, is actively used. This salt has antibacterial properties. Sodium usninate is used externally for the treatment of trophic ulcers and burns.

It has been proven that lichesteric and protolichesteric acids have high antimicrobial activity. These acids destroy streptococci, staphylococci and other microorganisms.

Decoctions are made from Icelandic cetraria, which are used in the treatment of colds and diarrhea. Also, its decoction helps to increase appetite. Iceland moss used in the treatment of debilitated patients. In addition, decoctions help with diseases of the stomach and intestines.

There is evidence that the Icelandic cetraria was used back in Ancient Egypt. In the Middle Ages, this lichen was actively used in Northern Europe– Iceland, Sweden and Norway. It was used as an enveloping agent during colds and bronchitis.

In the Scandinavian countries, Icelandic cetraria was used as a general tonic and an appetite stimulant. Also, this lichen helps with laryngitis, pulmonary tuberculosis, bronchitis, asthma. Iceland moss is used for cancer and bleeding.

Lotions from Icelandic moss are applied externally for wounds, ulcers, burns, acne, abscesses, eczema, boils.

Cetraria Icelandic is also used in official medicine. As a medicinal raw material, this lichen has been known since the 17th century. Cetraria Icelandic was a traditional remedy for pulmonary tuberculosis.

The first drug from this lichen was created in the 50s of the twentieth century. Made it in Germany. The drug was called Evozin. It had antimicrobial activity. Also, with the help of this lichen, lupus erythematosus was treated.

In Japan, an antibiotic agent has been developed from Icelandic moss that helps against actinomycosis. In Finland, it is used to make remedies for asthma, cough and runny nose. In the USSR in 1956, sodium usninate was obtained, which is used in the treatment of wounds, burns, cracks.

The use of Icelandic cetraria.

In 1918, there were difficulties with food in Moscow. At this time, a large supply of Icelandic cetraria was found in the pharmacies of the city. This lichen was used to meet the needs of bread. The lichen was soaked in soda, dried and ground into powder. This powder was mixed with rye flour in a ratio of one to one, and bread was baked from it.

Preparation of Icelandic cetraria.

The thalli of these lichens are harvested in the summer. Raw materials are cleaned of debris, then dried in the sun or in special dryers with good ventilation. The dried thallus is used in medicine. The taste of the thallus is bitter, and its smell is peculiar.

Raw materials are stored in boxes on the bottom of which paper is placed, or in closed jars in a cool, dry place.

Contraindications for the use of Icelandic Cetraria.

Icelandic moss and preparations based on it should not be used during lactation and during pregnancy. They are also contraindicated in gastritis and stomach ulcers.

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

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

On this unique opportunities Icelandic moss does not end - it healing properties there are still many ways to use 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 matter 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, uncontaminated industrial waste, air.

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, causing a high nutritional value plants 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 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, getting it from environment Therefore, the use of the plant is effective in the treatment of diseases of the endocrine system.

From 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 shell 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.

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 seizures in a few days seasonal allergies. The therapeutic effect is achieved not only by ingesting a decoction from the plant, but also by using 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 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

Used to treat various diseases different forms products prepared from cetraria - 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 is added to 100 g of the plant. cold water and last for days. 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.

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

Cetraria Icelandic (Icelandic moss, lung moss, prickly moss, komashnik, dry moss, Icelandic lopastyanka) is a species of lichens common in all regions of Russia, Australia, Asia, Africa, found on the Crimean Peninsula and the Caucasus. It is a small branched shrub with a leafy thallus, consisting of flat blades, rolled up in the form of a groove. Cetraria is a characteristic representative of tundra lichens, swamps, forest tundra, pine forests and heaths. Prefers unshaded sandy places, grows on the bark of old stumps or directly on the soil, only in clean air conditions.

Chemical composition

  • Carbohydrates (up to 70-80%), mainly lichenin and isolichenin;
  • Sugars (glucose and galactose);
  • Fats (1-2%);
  • Proteins (0.5-3%);
  • Gum (about 3%);
  • Pigments (about 3%);
  • Wax (1%);
  • Lichen acids (3-5%): protolychesteric, usnic, fumarprotocentric, lichesteric, etc.;
  • Trace elements: iron, copper, iodine, titanium, manganese, zinc, chromium, boron, molybdenum;
  • Vitamins A, B 1, B 12, C.

Beneficial features

The most useful properties of Icelandic cetraria are:

  • bactericidal;
  • Antimicrobial;
  • Antiseptic;
  • Tonic;
  • General strengthening;
  • Immunomodulatory;
  • Anti-inflammatory;
  • enveloping;
  • Antioxidant;
  • absorbent;
  • Oncoprotective.

Indications for use

The beneficial properties of the Icelandic cetraria have been known to mankind since ancient times; this plant was recognized by official medicine as early as the 9th century.

The nutritional value of this lichen is high, it is easily absorbed by the body and does not require energy for digestion, and therefore is indicated for the treatment of malnourished patients and people who have suffered from severe infectious diseases.

The astringent components and starch that make up the Icelandic moss make it possible to use it for diarrhea, tannins - for poisoning with heavy metals and poisons of plant origin.

The sodium salt of usnic acid is included in various antibacterial medicines, including those used externally for the treatment of acne, acne, burns, infected wounds and trophic ulcers, topically - with inflammation of the oral cavity, gums and tonsils.

On the basis of Icelandic cetraria, preparations are made for the treatment of respiratory diseases, including dry barking cough, bronchitis, laryngitis, hoarseness and loss of voice, bronchial asthma, whooping cough, pneumonia, and colds of infectious diseases. In addition, sodium salt inhibits the growth of Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

It has been established that lichesteric and protolichesteric acids have high antimicrobial activity against staphylococci, streptococci and some other resistant microorganisms.

Icelandic moss has a beneficial effect on the functioning of the stomach and intestines, activates the secretory function and increases appetite. It is used for intestinal and stomach cramps, constipation, gastritis, peptic ulcer, inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract.

In some European countries lichen is used as a component of drugs against HIV infection.

Japanese researchers have discovered properties in cetraria that cure cancer.

Contraindications

According to the results of numerous studies, Icelandic cetraria has no significant contraindications and no side effects. The main thing is to consult a doctor before starting treatment and take plant-based preparations strictly in accordance with his prescriptions.

Icelandic cetraria home remedies

  • A remedy used for pulmonary tuberculosis: 4 tbsp. lung moss pour 2 tbsp. chilled boiled water, bring to a boil, boil for 5 minutes over low heat and strain. Take 3 times a day for 1/4 st.;
  • Cough medicine: 1 tbsp. Pour the cetraria into an enamel bowl, pour 1 tbsp. milk, cover and simmer for 30 minutes over low heat. Drink before bed in a warm form;
  • Whooping Cough Treatment: Mix Icelandic moss and thyme in equal proportions. Take 1 tbsp. medicinal raw materials and pour 1 tbsp. boiling water, insist for 5 minutes and strain. Take 2-3 times a day for 1 cup;
  • Remedy for chronic bronchitis and emphysema: mix equal proportions of Icelandic cetraria and coltsfoot. Take 2 tbsp. raw materials and pour 1 tbsp. cold water, bring to a boil, remove from heat and strain. Take 2-3 times a day for 1 cup;
  • Cure for stomach ulcers: mix equal proportions of lichen, marshmallow root and flax seeds. Take 1.5 tbsp. raw materials pour 2 tbsp. boiling water, boil for 7 minutes over low heat and strain. Take 30 minutes before meals 5 times a day for 1/3 st.;
  • External remedy for burns, ulcers, boils and purulent wounds: 2 tbsp. pour 1 liter of cold water on top, bring to a boil and boil for 40-60 minutes over low heat, strain. Use for washing and as a lotion.

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 single organism, which is included in scientific classification like Iceland moss or Icelandic cetraria.

What is interesting about this lower plant, what medicinal properties it has, whether it has contraindications. Folk recipes 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 vitality 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. Collect lichen thalli in 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

Iceland moss medicinal properties and medicinal effect of which determines it chemical composition, applies not only to traditional medicine but also traditional. Indigenous people tundra zones, 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 body's immune forces, helps to cope with colds, strengthening the condition internal organs and systems, which contributes to the rejuvenation of 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 number 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 quantity sunny days, solstice, temperature fluctuations, solar radiation, lichen habitats.

Preparations with Icelandic moss kill pathogenic flora in the human body, are especially active against bacteria living in 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.

Medicines prepared on the basis of moss thalli are used to treat children's whooping cough, frontal sinusitis, ulcers and gastritis of the stomach, 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 widely uses unique properties Icelandic moss, in different preparations. 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" release 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 different origin Traditional medicine has long used cetraria as an independent remedy and preparing fees with medicinal herbs. For improvement palatability and therapeutic effect, add honey.

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 children 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.

What I wish you, dear readers!

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Iceland moss (Icelandic cetraria), in Latin Cetraria islandica.

Perennial foliate-bush lichen, attached and growing on trees, stumps, soil with the help of rhizoids. It grows in open sandy places in pine forests, swamps, but always far from industrial pollution. The presence of Icelandic moss on trees or soil is an indicator of the cleanliness of the environment.

Iceland moss grows in pine forests, tundra and forest tundra. It is the food of reindeer.

Three centuries ago, cetraria won a place of honor among the foodstuffs in Iceland. Local population so accustomed to adding cetraria to bread that they preferred only flour products containing Icelandic moss.

In our time, Icelandic cetraria is highly appreciated in folk medicine, using jelly from the plant for the treatment of many diseases and including cetraria in herbal collections. In official medicine, the preparation "Cetris" from the lichen Cetraria Icelandic has been developed. The high ability of this drug to dissolve seals in the mammary glands when used for treatment mastopathy in women.

The chemical composition and medicinal properties of Icelandic moss

Thallus of the Icelandic cetraria contain biologically active substances various groups: carbohydrates, sugars, lichen acids, trace elements - iron, copper, manganese, titanium, nickel, traces of molybdenum, etc.; vitamins - ascorbic and folic acids, vitamins A, B1, B2, B12, as well as proteins, fats, wax, gum and pigments.

Due to the content of biologically active substances of various pharmacological groups in the cetraria, the plant has found quite a wide application in official and traditional medicine in the treatment of diseases: gastrointestinal tract, dystrophy, general exhaustion, respiratory and lung diseases, infectious diseases of the skin, burns and diaper rash, disorders of the thyroid gland, anemia.

Acting on the mucosa of the digestive tract in gastrointestinal diseases, cetraria mucus stabilizes the excretory function of the gastric glands in hyperacid gastritis, gastric and duodenal ulcers, ulcerative colitis and irritable bowel syndrome, pancreatitis, diarrhea, weakens vomiting in early toxicosis of pregnant women.

The antitussive, antiemetic, enveloping effect of cetraria preparations is due to the presence of polysaccharides. The mucous substances of cetraria act envelopingly on the mucous membrane of the upper respiratory tract, therefore they are used for bronchitis with a strong cough, bronchial asthma, whooping cough, pneumonia, tuberculosis, emphysema, and chronic bronchial catarrh. Iceland moss has the strongest cleansing action in smokers and especially helps those who quit smoking! Also, regular intake of moss infusions is recommended for employees. hazardous industries associated with the inhalation of toxic substances.

Lichen acids are of the greatest value in Icelandic cetraria. Among lichen acids practical use found usnic acid, as it has a strong antibacterial effect against staphylococci, streptococci, subtilis bacteria, mycobacteria. Studies have shown that the sodium salt of usnic acid has bacteriostatic properties even at a dilution of 1:2000000, kills tuberculosis bacteria at a higher concentration, and the mechanism of antibiotic influence is associated with the termination of oxidative phosphorylation in bacteria.

The presence of trace elements (Fe, Mn, Cu, Co, Mo, B, Cr, Ni, Ti, I) and vitamin B12 makes it possible to use cetraria thalli in endocrine diseases, especially in case of thyroid insufficiency (hypothyroidism). Trace elements of the Icelandic cetraria take part in redox reactions and are necessary for the processes of growth and hematopoiesis. Vitamin B12 plays important role in the treatment of pernicious anemia.

I would especially like to emphasize high efficiency Icelandic moss in the treatment prostatitis and hemorrhoids. Treatment of hemorrhoids, especially in its severe forms, with the help of Icelandic moss is evidence that the biologically active substances of lichen help strengthen blood vessels, and also have a hemostatic effect. This plant can also be used in other diseases associated with the vascular system, as well as in the treatment of internal bleeding.

Cetraria Icelandic is valuable immunomodulating agent. Icelandic moss polysaccharides have antihypotoxic properties, are interferon stimulants and adaptogens.

The presence of tannins in Icelandic cetraria allows it to be used as an astringent and bactericidal agent in inflammatory processes of the mucous membranes, with burns, and also as an astringent. in case of poisoning heavy metals and plant poisons. The big advantage of cetraria is the factno side effects or toxic effects. Moss infusions and jellies can be used by pregnant women, nursing mothers and children.

Water extracts from cetraria help to improve the absorption of food and restore strength after physical overload, serious illnesses and are used to treat malnourished patients with asthenia, dystrophy, and muscle weakness.

The use of Icelandic cetraria for treatment

Icelandic moss water infusion (basic recipe)

Brew 1 tablespoon of crushed moss thalli with 1 cup (200 ml) of boiling water. Leave for 30 minutes, strain. Take 1-2 cups of infusion throughout the day between meals.

A decoction of moss in milk

1 tablespoon of well-chopped raw materials brew 300 ml of hot milk. Boil over low heat or in a water bath for 5 minutes, leave for 30 minutes, strain. The resulting decoction is taken 100 ml 3 times a day 30 minutes before meals. A decoction of milk is recommended for cleansing the lungs, coughing, and various poisonings.

The course of treatment (infusion or decoction) depends on the complexity of the disease. You can take 3 months without a break, if necessary, after a month break, continue treatment.

External use of decoction of cetraria

For external use, a decoction of Icelandic moss is prepared only on water and filtered before use. With purulent wounds, microbial skin lesions, pustular rash, burns and boils, lotions and washings are made. The bandage is changed 3-4 times a day.

Moss jelly

They are used for general weakness of the body, including in the diet. To prepare jelly, 100 grams of Icelandic cetraria are poured with 1 liter of water, infused for 2-3 hours, 10 g of baking soda are added. The water is drained, the moss is again poured with 0.5 liters of boiling water and boiled for 30 minutes, then filtered through cheesecloth and cooled. Jelly is eaten 1 tablespoon 5-6 times a day long time until you feel better (the course is not limited in time). Such jellies are also recommended for dry cough, gastric ulcer, duodenal ulcer, to improve appetite. In addition, cetraria mucus is used to reduce the local irritant effect of certain drugs.
Aqueous thick laxative extract