The healing properties of Icelandic moss. Healing properties of Icelandic moss Icelandic moss in gynecology

What is Icelandic Moss? In fact, Icelandic moss (Cetraria islandica) is a lichen that is often pale chestnut or grayish white in color. This is a small shrub up to 15 cm. The plant has an amazing ability to change color depending on humidity. Icelandic moss - a photo will help you accurately determine its appearance. It grows abundantly in the mountainous regions of the northern countries, and is especially characteristic of the lava slopes and plains in the west and north of Iceland, the mountains of North Wales, northern England, Scotland and southwestern Ireland.

In North America, its range extends through the Arctic regions, from Alaska to Newfoundland and south from the Rocky Mountains to Colorado and the Appalachian Mountains of New England.

The use of Icelandic moss for medicinal purposes

Born in the northern and alpine regions of Europe, this lichen grows in parts of the southern hemisphere on rocks and bark of trees, especially conifers. It is harvested throughout the year from the wild, air dried, moistened, cut and recycled.

In Iceland, it has found wide application in folk medicine and in several traditional dishes. In the Nordic countries, its used as an aromatic additive to bread, meat and fish... Icelandic moss has been added to vegetable drinks and sweet desserts to give them a spicy taste.

Icelandic moss has been used for medicinal purposes since ancient times as cough medicine, in medieval Europe it was believed that its use neutralizes the effect of poisons... In the 19th century, a decoction of this lichen was used to treat tuberculosis patients... It has also been used in European folk medicine as a cancer treatment.

Icelandic moss is characterized by a rich set of minerals such as: iron, calcium, magnesium, iodine and vitamin B12... This vitamin is responsible for the digestion of fats and proteins, activates the immune system and improves hair condition. Traditional medicine considers these lichens to be the best natural immunostimulant..

It is traditionally used today to treat:

Beneficial features

The polysaccharides in lichen form a moist and soothing layer over the mucous membranes of the mouth and throat, making it an effective treatment for oral infections, as well as colds, coughs, bronchitis and acute respiratory distress. Icelandic moss is used for the treatment of inflammation and dryness of the pharyngeal mucosa naturopathy for many years.

The required concentration of Icelandic moss and its therapeutic efficacy were analyzed in a controlled clinical study involving sixty-one patients who had recently undergone nose surgery. The patients suffered especially from dryness and inflammation due to breathing only through the mouth, as the nose was constantly blocked. Dryness and inflammation of the mucous membrane, lymph nodes, tongue and symptoms such as hoarseness and sore throat were noted. Icelandic moss cakes were given from the first to the fifth day after surgery. It turned out that the treatment with Icelandic moss reduced all pathological symptoms at a dose of 0.48 g per day.

Treatment with Icelandic moss preparations can be recommended after nasal surgery, after intubation, and for simple throat infections. It is also used for treating kidney and bladder problems, pulmonary conditions, as a restorative agent, and for malignant neoplasms.

Recent research has uncovered compounds in Icelandic moss that represent potential treatments for ulcers, abnormal neoplasms, and AIDS. Scientists at the University of Illinois have discovered compounds from Icelandic moss that inhibit an enzyme essential for HIV replication. Conventional drugs do the same, however, these drugs are toxic and do not completely inhibit the virus, and vice versa, the active ingredients in Icelandic moss have been shown in laboratory studies to be non-toxic to cells.

In addition, research has confirmed the powerful immunomodulatory and antioxidant properties of Icelandic moss. Alcohol extracts help eliminate the early signs of skin aging, increase the body's defenses, fight psycho-emotional problems and coughs. Western pharmaceutical companies produce medicines based on Icelandic moss (syrups, tablets, candies) and add them to toothpaste.

Active ingredients

Icelandic moss contains: 50% water-soluble polysaccharides, including:

• lichenin,
• linear cellulose-like polymer bD-glucose,
• isolinichin,
• linear starch polymer D-glucose.

Other ingredients include bitter tasting lichen acids, including depsidones, fumarprotocetraric acid and protocretric acid, and aliphatic lactonic protollineric acid.

Side effects

Icelandic moss has a long history of use as a food and medicine in Europe, North America and is considered safe.

Fresh or improperly cooked Icelandic moss contains bitter and potentially toxic lichen acids as well as heavy metals such as lead.

Two studies published in 1986 examined the potential toxicity of Icelandic moss and other natural plants used as food in Finland and Northern Europe. The studies were carried out on rats. At the end of the experiments, the rats showed proteinuria, and necropsy revealed some renal tubular changes, probably due to high lead concentrations.

Untreated and undercooked lichens were lethally toxic to rats. The researchers concluded that oversimplification of traditional precautions when eating moss can be dangerous.

Traditional use

Icelandic moss has a bitter tonic effect that is most unique in medicinal herbs. Therefore, it is relevant for all types of chronic digestive problems, including irritable bowel syndrome, as well as for all types of cough and inflammation of the mouth and throat. It soothes the mucous membranes of the chest, replicates congestion and soothes dry and paroxysmal coughs, which is especially useful for the elderly and with tuberculosis.

After cleaning, the leaves are dried in the sun, after which it can be stored in containers or opaque bags for up to two years.

The medicinal properties of Icelandic moss do not disappear after heat treatment. Dried and fresh lichen can be brewed as tea or infused, after which it is used as a hemostatic and anti-inflammatory agent.

Recycled Icelandic moss can be used as:

• antibiotic;
• insecticide;
• tonic;
• sedative.

How to brew Icelandic moss

Before use, rinse 1.5-2.5 grams of finely chopped Icelandic moss in boiling water. Then the water is poured out and new hot water is added. Boil for 10 minutes, then strain. Take a decoction of 4-6 grams per day.

Icelandic moss: how to take it right?

Before using:

• You must tell your doctor if you are going to give medicine to a child
• Are allergic to any medicine or dietary supplement.
• Are pregnant or planning to become pregnant while using this medication.
• Breastfeed your baby.
• Have any other health problems, such as high blood pressure or heart and blood vessel disease.

Check with your doctor about the dosage, which depends on the drug and the reason for taking it. The use of this medication without consulting a doctor should be done according to the instructions on the package.

Icelandic moss instructions for use state that during storage, the medicine should be protected from heat and direct light, away from the child. Do not store the medicine in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink, or in other humid places. Heat or humidity can destroy the medication.

Side effects:

• Breathing problems
• Chest pain
• Rash, itching, or redness of the skin

You must inform your doctor in case of any side effects that were caused by this medication. Prolonged use may cause stomach upset, nausea, or liver problems. Contraindications: Cannot be used for gastroduodenal ulcers.

Icelandic cetraria, aka Icelandic moss, is a medicinal plant belonging to the lichen species. Despite its name, cetraria is widespread 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 sand content, as well as on grassy slopes, on peaty soils, in illuminated places. The peculiarity of the cetraria is that its appearance serves as a kind of signal about the ecological purity of the area - this plant never occurs in conditions of air pollution.

This lichen is a perennial plant. In appearance, the cetraria is similar to small bushes, usually they do not grow higher than 15 cm. The flat blades look like narrow ribbons, in some places bent, covered with small cilia. The blade sizes and colors are dependent on environmental factors. Under the influence of light, humidity, temperature, the cetrarium can be brown or have a greenish tint, turning to red at the base, and the underside of the blades becomes beige to white, covered with light spots.

Cetraria can multiply 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 use, the thallus is harvested. Traditionally, the period for collecting Icelandic moss is summer, it is possible to harvest it in autumn, in dry weather. The lichen thallus is detached from the soil, cleaned of impurities and dried. The main difficulty in harvesting is the process of cleaning Icelandic moss from soil and impurities, which is usually done by hand. Drying can be carried out both in the shade and in the sun, and, of course, in industrial dryers. The raw materials for drying are laid out on paper or fabric mats in a thin layer.

Ready-made raw materials of Icelandic cetraria can retain their beneficial 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 material is shifted with paper to prevent excess moisture from entering, since the moss absorbs it like a sponge.

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

Usage history

Like other lichens, the history of medicinal use of cetraria goes back more than one hundred years. Written evidence from the Middle Ages that has survived to our time indicates that Icelandic moss was used as a universal medicine for a wide range of diseases. Healers of the Northern European countries advised Tsetraria to patients with colds, inflammation in the respiratory system. Healing moss was a medicine for various types of coughs and sore throats; decoctions were made from it for whooping cough, tuberculosis, bronchitis, asthma.

Among the Scandinavians, cetraria was a favorite remedy for the treatment of gastrointestinal ailments. Infusions of Icelandic moss were used by healers in order to cope with constipation, indigestion, dysentery, and also to increase appetite. Cetraria-based remedies were prescribed for bleeding, and it was also believed that Icelandic moss soothes excessive sexual arousal in women. In addition, the traditional use of cetraria in the treatment of tumors, including malignant ones. In general, Icelandic moss was prized for its high nutritional properties and immunity-boosting properties.

Lotions based on medicinal lichen were used as external therapy for various skin diseases, acne, burns and ulcers, abscesses, and purulent boils. Sometimes the moss itself was applied unprocessed to the 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 antibiotic-like effect - it can kill bacteria. Usnic acid, which is secreted from cetraria, is especially valuable in this respect - it acts on tuberculosis bacteria, staphylococcal and streptococcal microorganisms. In the 50s, the creation of the first pharmaceuticals based on these discoveries began. So, in the Soviet Union, sodium usninat was released - a medicine for treating burns, wounds, to prevent the development of infection in a wound and to accelerate skin regeneration.

There is information that dried and milled cetraria in the northern regions was used as an additive in 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 now there are a number of medicines, which contain cetraria in one form or another, including 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 carbohydrate content of the lichen. The raw materials contain up to 80% of polysaccharides; when preparing water 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 obesity - it normalizes the digestive process and has a mild laxative effect.

Used plant parts

Contraindications

Recipes

For plant part - Moss

General recipe.

Pour 1 tablespoon of chopped cetraria with 2 cups of water, bring to a boil, leave to cool, drain. Take in small sips, throughout the day, 30 minutes before meals.

With pyelonphritis, cystitis, urethritis.

Pour 1 tablespoon of chopped cetraria with 1 glass of milk, bring to a boil, simmer over low heat for 10 minutes, leave for 1 hour, drain. Take half-hot, at night.

Tea.

Pour 500 ml of 2 teaspoons of the crushed plant. water, simmer at low boil for 10 minutes, insist, wrapped, 45 minutes, drain. Drink in small portions throughout the day.

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

Pour 20 grams of chopped moss in 200 ml. water, cook at low boil for 10 minutes, leave for 1 hour, drain. Take 1 tablespoon 3 times a day.

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

Pour 2 teaspoons of crushed raw materials with 2 cups of cold water, heat to a boil, leave for 2 hours, strain. Drink in equal portions throughout the day.

With no appetite.

Pour 20 grams of chopped thallus with 2 cups of boiling water, cook over low heat for 30 minutes, leave for 1 hour, drain. Drink the whole broth in small sips during the day.

Jelly. Jelly is eaten for 1-2 months daily. 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.

Pour 100 grams of crushed moss with 1 liter of water, leave for 3 hours, add 10 grams of soda, stir, drain the water, rinse the cetraria. Pour the moss into 0.5 liters of boiling water, cook at a low boil for 30 minutes, strain, and leave to cool. You can take it without restrictions.

With bronchitis, colds.

Pour 1 tablespoon of chopped cetraria with 2 cups of boiling water, cook over low heat for 5 minutes, cool, drain. Take 1/2 cup 3-4 times a day.

In chronic colitis with constipation, gastric ulcer and duodenal ulcer, gastritis, diarrhea, cough. Topically apply for skin diseases, burns, systemic lupus erythematosus, dermatoses, trophic ulcers in the form of lotions, compresses.

Pour 2 tablespoons of chopped cetraria with 1 glass of boiling water, simmer for 8 minutes over low heat, leave for 1 hour, drain. Take 1 tablespoon 4-5 times a day, before meals.

Extract. For constipation, intestinal inflammation, dysbiosis.

Pour 100 grams of chopped moss with 1 liter of water, leave for 24 hours, strain. Evaporate the infusion in a water bath to half. Take 1 tablespoon 3 times a day, 30 minutes before meals.

Jelly. After serious illness, exhaustion, lack of weight.

Pour 2 tablespoons of chopped moss with 2 cups of water, bring to a boil, cook over low heat for 7 minutes, cool, drain. Take 1/2 cup 3-4 times a day, 15-20 minutes before meals.

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

Pour 2 teaspoons of chopped moss with 1 cup boiling water, leave for 30 minutes, drain. Take 2 tablespoons 4-5 times a day, before meals. Course - 10 days, break 4 days, in total 3 such courses.

As the experience of mankind shows, you can survive for a long time using only available means. Even a modern person, with a certain amount of skills and abilities, of course, is capable of this. You just need to know what and how to use. And gradually this science is being restored. But we will not tell you now how to build a multi-storey log house using only a knife - let those who are firsthand familiar with the process share this information. We'd better tell you about something simpler and easier to apply in practice. For example, about what are useful properties of moss.

Peat moss or sphagnum is a special genus of mosses that lives mainly in swamps and wet areas. Its distinctive feature is that in the process of evolution, it has learned to perfectly store water in itself - for this purpose, it even formed special hollow, half-dead cells. In addition, it is he who serves as the main component of peat - effective kindling, fertilization and, in general, an extremely useful substance. Actually, the biological characteristics of sphagnum determine the spectrum of its useful properties, which is almost the same regardless of the specific type of plant. So.

Medicine

Most demanded useful property of moss... The fact is that it doesn't matter at all what liquid to absorb - ordinary water, blood or ichor, absorbing it 20 times its own weight. At the same time, unlike traditional dressings, the moss retains its oxygen permeability so that the wound can breathe. This prevents the proliferation of anaerobic organisms, facilitates drainage and promotes early healing. And if you consider that moss is also a powerful antiseptic due to the huge content of phenolic and triterpene substances, it becomes clear why many doctors still use sphagnum-gauze dressings as dressings. Yes, they are sometimes treated with boric acid, but this is not necessary.

That is, yes, freshly picked moss can (and even should) be applied to open wounds. And unlike traditional dressings, it needs to be changed much less often, and much easier to find. What's more, moss can be used as an insulating material for fractures. That is, everyone knows that in the event of a bone injury, a splint should be applied. But not many people remember that it should not be applied to a naked body. And moss is great for insulation purposes. It is moist enough to prevent friction, while, if anything, easily absorbs various liquids. So remember this useful property of moss, if in a swamp suddenly some trouble happens to you.

Insulating material

Remember, at the beginning of the article we wrote about a log house built with a knife? So, moss will come in handy here. The fact is that it will need to be insulated somehow. Clay is an option, but it will quickly dry out and stop performing its functions. But moss as insulation will work great. Hollow cells, and even tightly packed, perfectly prevent heat from escaping from the inside. And if due to the rain outside they somehow get wet, then due to their antibacterial properties they will not become a refuge for mold and other fungi. They just dry up and they will work fine again.

At the same time, moisture, due to hygroscopic properties, which are preserved even in dry moss, will be evenly distributed throughout the entire thickness of the material, which contributes to uniform evaporation of the liquid and faster drying. And the majority of modern insulation materials also need additional antiseptic impregnation ... One drawback - moss, unlike them, burns well. So in the event of a fire, he would rather aggravate the situation.

Kindling

As already specified, moss is the main component of peat, a highly efficient kindling. So even just dried it burns pretty well. But to implement this useful properties of moss there is a little problem - it needs to be dried first. And this must be done in advance, which is not very rational given the presence of almost fossil peat reserves at hand. Concentrating on the procurement of truly efficient fuel is another matter entirely. And it will prove to be much more effective than chopping down stunted swamp vegetation. And if you consider that peat is also a fairly effective fertilizer, then it becomes clear that settling near a swamp is not a very bad idea. The main thing is to choose a place higher.

Padding

Dried moss not only burns well, but also retains its shape well due to the elasticity of the cell fibers. So another useful property of moss is the ability to use it as stuffing for ... Yes, for anything. Mattress, pillow, blanket - no difference. Moss will be an excellent filler, in which, moreover, microscopic dust mites will not start - they also do not like the antiseptic properties of this material. And even if it starts, you can always throw it away, dry a new one and fill it up again.

Water filter

Unique useful property of moss, which has not yet begun to be widely used - the ability to effectively filter water from various contaminants and microorganisms. And if the former, including various metals such as zinc, silver, copper and what is worse, simply accumulate in hollow and dying cells, then the antiseptic properties of this material help against microorganisms. That is, large particles are retained mechanically, by antiseptic substances, metal ions are retained in cells, and clean water moves on.

In practice, it looks like this: take a wide plastic bottle with the bottom cut off, and evenly fill it with layers of moss and crushed charcoal, so that it is tight. Actually, that's all. Coal additionally takes on some of the toxins and harmful substances, moss destroys microorganisms. True, there is no one hundred percent guarantee, so it is better to boil the water later. But this design helps with all kinds of chemical contamination quite well. Well, its main advantage is the simplicity and general availability of materials.

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

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

Features of lichen

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

The properties of each of the forms are absolutely opposite. We can say that their community is built on the mutual complementarity 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 supplies the alga with valuable trace elements.

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

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

Official medicine became interested in the therapeutic 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 the growth of a plant is impossible, is clean air, unpolluted by industrial waste.

The healing 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 matter, lipids - proteins, fats, wax, gum;
• vitamins A, C and B12.

Substances in the composition of lichen have a powerful healing effect for burns, ulcers and rashes, chronic rhinitis, overweight, chest lumps, impotence, anorexia and dystrophy, dental problems, insomnia, constipation and diarrhea.

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

Indications for use

The immunomodulatory, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, choleretic and absorbing qualities 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 taking as an antidiabetic and oncoprotective medicine.

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

In addition, Icelandic moss has the ability to accumulate iodine, getting 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 its unique healing properties and antibiotic activity, Icelandic moss for cough is in the greatest demand. The mucus that is formed when the lichen is brewed from polysaccharides provides an enveloping effect on the inflamed areas and effectively protects the airway membrane from irritations.

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

Decoctions from Icelandic moss relieve inflammation, heal damage to the mucous membrane of the respiratory tract and provide a soothing, softening and expectorant effect.

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

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

Icelandic moss is no less effective in the treatment of diseases associated with damage to the ENT organs - viral infections, tonsillitis, tonsillitis, laryngitis and common colds.

The optimal therapeutic result in the fight against cough is achieved by ingestion of lichen syrup. For its preparation, 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 lichen have antibiotic power that exceeds the capabilities of pharmaceuticals.

For allergies

The use of Cetraria Icelandic 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 from the plant, but also using medicinal baths with the addition of cetraria extract.

For constipation

Stool normalization is one of the expected effects provided by Icelandic moss. To eliminate constipation, an infusion from the plant is used. For 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 in a glass of infusion.

Slimming

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 - it is enough to replace one of the meals with lichen jelly.

For 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 the bitterness, the lichen is soaked in water with the addition of soda for 12 hours. 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 drugs made from cetraria are used - decoctions, syrups, jelly, teas, extracts and fees. The most common treatment is with a decoction. If you brew Icelandic moss correctly, its valuable properties will be transferred into a decoction.

How to brew Icelandic moss properly?

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

For oral administration, you can take milk instead of water. 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 is particularly effective.

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. Used as needed - added to drinks or food, or as a bath additive.

You can also make tea from Icelandic moss. The proportions, preparation method and reception do not differ from those used for brewing ordinary tea.

Pharmacy medicines

Icelandic moss is a plant officially recognized by traditional medicine.

On its basis, several types of cough medicines have been created:

• Pectolvan Fito - liquid alcoholic extract of cetraria. It has an expectorant, thinning and antispasmodic effect;
• Isla moos - lozenges. Indicated for admission for diseases of the throat and upper respiratory tract;
• Herbion - Icelandic 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 peppermint 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 used successfully to treat pregnant women, young children and the elderly.

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

One of the herbal remedies for the treatment of various diseases is Icelandic moss. Its medicinal properties make it possible to strengthen the immune system, treat female and male diseases, gastrointestinal diseases, skin damage, and a minimum of contraindications allows it to be used by almost all patients.

Chemical composition

The carbohydrate composition of moss contains 40% lichenin, which, when it gets into hot water, turns into glucose, it is thanks to it that lichen acquires its nutritional value.

Also included in Icelandic moss are:

• 4% cetrarine and acids:
  - Usninova;
  - protolichesterin;
  - lichesteric;
  - fumarprotocenter;

• 3% copper pigments,
• 1% fat
• 1% wax,
• 0.5-3% - protein,
• iodine,
• glucose and galactose,
• vitamin B12.

It is due to its chemical composition that Icelandic moss is highly valued in medicine.

Healing properties

Icelandic moss (medicinal properties and contraindications further) is considered by phytotherapists to be a natural antibiotic that has a therapeutic effect in many diseases.

Lichen is used to create biologically active additives (dietary supplements). Moss has been used by Icelandic and Danish healers since ancient times as an irreplaceable remedy for coughs and diarrhea.

Icelandic cetraria has many medicinal properties:

• antiseptic,
• softening,
• antibacterial,
• antimicrobial,
• toning,
• enveloping,
• mucolytic,
• choleretic,
• wound healing
• immunostimulating.

Icelandic moss has a strong therapeutic effect, therefore it is not recommended to use it simultaneously with other medicinal plants. Exceptions are flax, marshmallow, thyme.

Indications for use

• pyelonephritis,
• tuberculosis,
• whooping cough,
• gastritis,
• bronchitis,
• pneumonia,
• sinusitis,
• cystitis,
• urethritis,
• bronchial asthma,
• intestinal atony,
• constipation,
• diarrhea,
• gastritis,
• stomach ulcer.

Lichen has found its application in the complex therapy of long-lasting wounds on the skin, besides, the reception of moss helps to increase immunity and maintain the body in good shape.

The medicinal properties of Icelandic moss are still being investigated, despite a number of contraindications, for its possible use in the treatment of AIDS and malignant neoplasms.

Against cough

Icelandic moss, which has unique medicinal properties and practically no contraindications, copes with almost any cough.

The therapeutic effect of cetraria is achieved primarily due to the secretolytic and bronchodilator effects - the tone of the bronchodilator muscles decreases, the thick secretion liquefies and lags well behind the walls of the respiratory tract and is excreted from the body.

Besides, moss stimulates expectoration and actively fights against pathogenic microfloraleading to her death. He is able to suppress attacks of cough attacks and stop vomiting, which is very important for whooping cough and pleurisy. Its effectiveness has been proven in chronic, acute and obstructive bronchitis, pneumonia, ARVI.

It is used in various forms - in the form of infusions, decoctions, jelly. Add honey if desired. With pneumonia, the broth is prepared in milk, using it instead of water.

For allergies

Icelandic moss is also effective for seasonal allergic reactions. Patients experience swelling, lacrimation, redness of the eyes and skin surfaces, shortness of breath.

To achieve the desired effect, moss decoction should be used... It is prepared like this: 1 tbsp. moss is poured with 0.5 tbsp. water, after swelling after 1.5-2 hours, pour in 500 ml of boiling water and boil for 25 minutes. The resulting broth must be drunk throughout the day.

With diseases of the gastrointestinal tract

Icelandic moss, its medicinal properties and contraindications, which have not been fully studied at the moment, are indispensable in the treatment of gastrointestinal pathologies. It is an effective remedy for flatulence, frequent diarrhea and constipation.

The mucous substances that make up its composition, due to their enveloping properties, normalize the intestines and have a therapeutic effect in gastritis and ulcers, in addition, it also has a choleretic effect. Moss is indicated for a variety of liver diseasesas it has an anti-inflammatory effect and promotes its natural regeneration.

With skin lesions

Cetraria has found its application in dermatology, as it promotes the natural regeneration of the skin.

She copes with ailments such as:

• purulent wounds
• trophic ulcers,
• pustular rash,
• boils,
• burns,
• acne.

Outwardly, moss is used in the form of a powder, alcohol or oil tincture, infusion lotions, homemade ointments.

For women

Tsetraria can become a helper in "women's" problems. Mammologists recommend using it for mastopathy, since its medicinal properties contribute to the resorption of seals in the mammary glands.

In addition, it is widely used in the treatment of uterine fibroids, providing anesthetic, hemostatic and anti-inflammatory effects. Thanks to usnic acid, the prevention of oncological processes of the genital organs is carried out.

Icelandic moss can also be used during pregnancy, however, this can only be done under the supervision of a gynecologist. Cetraria has a marked anti-toxic effect in the first trimester. You need to use a decoction: 1 tsp. moss is poured with 1 tbsp. boiling water and boil for 5 minutes, you should drink no more than 100 ml of broth during the day.

For men

Icelandic moss can also be an assistant for the treatment of "male" ailments, such as prostatitis. Thanks to its components, bleeding is prevented, blood vessels are strengthened, moss copes well with the formed seals. To do this, you need to take a medicinal decoction of 1 tbsp three times a day. moss and 500 ml of water.

Thanks to its tonic and tonic properties, moss helps to increase erectile function, tidies up potency and normalizes a man's sex life.

For kids

The healing properties and the absence of contraindications for use in pediatrics make it possible to use Icelandic moss for children. You can use moss inside from 12 months.

It can be used to treat coughs of various origins and gastrointestinal disorders. However, such treatment should be carried out under the supervision of a pediatrician. Infusions and decoctions are best made for children with milk, which improves the taste of the drink.

Outwardly, Cetraria is used in pediatrics to treat diaper rash. There are no age restrictions, the only prohibition is a possible allergic reaction, therefore, during the first use, a decoction or oil from moss should be applied to a small area of \u200b\u200bthe skin - no more than 1 cm.

To strengthen the immune system

Due to its chemical composition, Cetraria increases the tone of the body and strengthens the immune system.

This is due to the fact that its chemical composition contains many trace elements:

• iron,
• manganese,
• copper,
• titanium.

Apart from them, moss is rich in many polysaccharides and amino acids. It is necessary to apply moss in a course - at least 14 days every six months. To achieve the best effect, you should prepare a moss jelly after soaking it for at least 10 hours in water with soda. The soaked moss is cooked over low heat until the liquid thickens, then sugar and fruit are added to taste.

Slimming

Healing drink made from Icelandic moss helps in the fight against excess weight. But it is impossible to lose weight only with its help, it only removes toxins and water from the body.

For this, the infusion should be drunk before each meal and before bedtime. Thanks to it, metabolism is accelerated, and the laxative properties of the plant stimulate the elimination of food debris from the body. You can arrange fasting days on moss jelly, drinking at least a liter of jelly and 1.5 liters of any other liquid per day.

How to properly prepare a decoction

To achieve the desired treatment effect, it is important to properly prepare the medicinal decoction.

Recipe number 1

1 tbsp dry moss should be poured with 100 ml of water, wait 5-10 minutes, boil and simmer for at least 60 minutes over low heat. When the broth thickens, it is ready. It needs to be cooled for 10 minutes, drained and used as directed.

Recipe number 2

2 tsp dried moss must be filled with 1 tbsp. milk and boil over low heat for half an hour. This infusion is best given to children, as milk improves its taste.

How to prepare the extract

For the treatment of chronic constipation, the intake of cetraria extract is effective.

For its preparation, the crushed raw materials are poured with cold water and infused for 24 hours, then filtered and evaporated in a water bath to half the volume. The effect of admission is not achieved immediately, long-term treatment is necessary.

Infusion

An infusion of Icelandic moss is prepared as follows: 2 tsp. moss is poured with 250 ml of boiling water and infused for at least 25 minutes.

Tincture

To prepare an alcoholic tincture, pharmacy alcohol is needed - 60%, the growing parts of the lichen are poured with it - 40 g. They should be insisted for 7 days in a dark place. The use of the tincture should be carried out in strictly limited doses.

To prepare a tincture of Icelandic moss, you need ethyl alcohol

The water tincture is prepared as follows: 4 tsp. moss is poured with 400 ml of cold water, brought to a boil in slow water and immediately filtered.

Syrup

At home, you can also make Icelandic moss cough syrup. To do this, you need to take 150 g of powder from the cetraria and pour 200 ml of water, boil for 7 minutes in an enamel bowl, cool and strain, then add a little citric acid and 4 tbsp. sugar, boil again for 35 minutes. After cooling down, pour into a glass container. Can be used to treat children.

Tea

To make tea from moss, 1 tsp. lichen pour 1 tbsp. boiling water and leave for 5-7 minutes. Then honey can be added to the drink to taste.

Ointment

It is an effective treatment for wounds: 1 tbsp. moss powder must be mixed with 0.5 tbsp. vaseline oil, soak for 5 hours in a water bath, then strain.

In the pharmacy, you can find Icelandic moss cream, which helps with dislocations, bruises and joint pains.

Application in cosmetology

Tsetraria is used in the cosmetic industry both as a part of medicinal cosmetics and in hair, skin care products, toothpastes and antiperspirants. The maximum permissible concentration of Icelandic moss in cosmetic products is 5%, the minimum is 1%.

In beauty salons, they make a variety of wraps, masks and moss-based scrubs, however, you can cook them yourself.

The following recipe will work to combat acne and acne.1 tbsp tsetraria pour 100 ml of boiling water and boil for 10 minutes, leave for half an hour and take inside in an amount of 100 ml.

To improve skin condition, you can prepare soap for daily use:

• Rub the baby soap on a grater and melt it in a water bath.
• Take a milk-based decoction of Icelandic moss and add it to the soap mass.
• Remove from heat, pour into a mold, add essential oils and glycerin if desired.
• Spray the top layer with alcohol and leave to solidify for 72 hours.

Hair can be rinsed with cetraria decoction: 1 tbsp. moss needs to be boiled in a glass of water for 5 minutes, cooled, diluted with water to a volume of 1 liter and rinsed hair after shampooing.

Traditional medicine recipes

To achieve the desired effect in the treatment with Icelandic moss, you must strictly adhere to the recipe for the preparation of the medicine, depending on the disease.

For the therapy of the gastrointestinal tract, liver, you can apply the following recipe - to 2 tbsp. cetraria powder add 2 tbsp. honey (if you have an allergy, you can replace it with syrup) and 300 g of kefir, beat with a blender and take instead of dinner or breakfast.

Tsetraria even helps in the treatment of tuberculosis, since its concentrated decoctions are capable of killing tuberculosis bacteria. The infusion is prepared as follows: 1 tbsp. raw materials pour 200 ml of boiling water, insist half an hour and drink a glass 6 times a day. The course is 10 days, in total you need to complete at least 3 courses.

For the treatment of obstructive bronchitis or pneumonia, it is necessary to prepare a decoction in milk: in 1 tsp. cetraria add a glass of milk, cover the container and boil in a water bath for 25 minutes. Drink the broth at night.

For the treatment of ulcers and gastritis, you should use moss jelly. - 2 tbsp. moss is poured with 500 ml of water, boiled for half an hour, 100 ml are consumed before the main meal - 3 times a day.

Icelandic moss (medicinal properties and contraindications for which are wide) are used to treat arthritis and rheumatism, using external and internal homemade products.

Milk infusion is taken orally: 6 tsp dry lichen must be soaked in 1 liter of water and 1 tsp. soda. After an hour, drain the water and rinse the moss. Next, you need to put it in a saucepan, add 1 liter of milk and boil for 2 hours in a water bath. It should be consumed within 14 days up to 6 times a day.

Alcohol solution should be used to wipe sore joints at night and wrap up. Recipe: 150 g of dry moss pour 0.5 liters of vodka and leave for 21 days. The tincture should be shaken daily.

Icelandic moss - medicinal properties and contraindications make it possible to use it to treat colds rhinitis

For the treatment of colds rhinitis, you need 1 tbsp. raw materials pour 1 tbsp. water, boil until boiling, remove and leave under the lid for 10 minutes. Next, open the pan and breathe in the steam. It is necessary to carry out inhalations three times a day for 2-3 days.

To restore the skin after burns, an ointment should be applied:

• 1 tbsp. tsetraria;
• 100 g of interior fat;
• 1 tsp St. John's wort oil;
• a few drops of eucalyptus and lavender oil;
• 100 ml of water.

The lichen must be boiled for 30 minutes, strain, put in a water bath and add lard, remove from heat, mix, add oil. The finished ointment should be stored in the refrigerator, applied to wounds 2-3 times a day, and a gauze bandage should be applied on top.

Icelandic moss-based medications

Icelandic moss, the medicinal properties and contraindications of which allow it to be used widely enough, is used by modern pharmaceutical companies and in the creation of various drugs for colds and coughs of various etiologies.

Name	pharmachologic effect	Release form and price
Isla Moos	Lozenges for the treatment of cough for bronchitis, laryngitis, tracheitis, bronchial asthma, professional loads on the vocal cords	30 pcs. about 360 rubles
Pectolvan phyto	Extract. Expectorant for colds, bronchitis, in which sputum discharge is complicated or painful. It also contains thyme, Oman root, milnyanka, hisopa.	Available in bottles of 25 and 50 ml, about 205 rubles.
Isla mint	Lozenges for the treatment of throat diseases, peppermint is present in the composition. Used to facilitate breathing in laryngitis and tracheitis.	30 pcs. from 320 rubles
Herbion Icelandic Moss Syrup	A syrup that suppresses the cough reflex has immunostimulating, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. It is used for dry cough, hoarseness, severe stress on the vocal cords.	About 320 rubles.
Anginal With Icelandic moss	Spray, the composition also contains chamomile, St. John's wort, eucalyptus. It is used for the treatment of diseases of the upper and lower respiratory tract, inflammation of the gums, tonsillitis, pharyngitis, bronchitis, stomatitis, gingivitis.	About 300 rubles. for 30 gr.
Bronchial plus for children with Icelandic moss and chamomile and vitamin C	Syrup for the treatment of inflammation of the upper respiratory tract, accompanied by cough, chronic bronchitis, flu.	130, 320 g, from 300 rubles.
Bronchial plus with vitamin C for children	In addition to Icelandic moss, the composition includes coltsfoot, plantain, marshmallow root, chamomile. Soothes irritating coughs, accelerates coughing, excretion of phlegm.	130, 320 g, from 300 rubles.
Cetrasept with Icelandic Moss	Lozenges. In addition to antiseptic and anti-inflammatory effects, they have an analgesic effect, are used for ARVI and throat diseases.	16 tab. from 300 rubles.

Contraindications

Cetraria has practically no contraindications for use, it is allowed even for children from 1 year old and for pregnant women.

The only limitations are the following chronic diseases:

• gastroduodenitis;
• cholecystitis and pancreatitis in the acute stage;
• bronchial asthma in the acute stage;
• fungal infections of internal organs, including candidiasis.

How to properly collect and store the product

You can prepare moss yourself.

The basic requirements are as follows:

• Collect raw materials in the summer.
• The moss layer should be carefully removed from the substrate.
• At home, moss should be cleaned of debris.
• You can dry both outdoors and in a dryer at a temperature of 40 o.
• Dried moss should be stored in glass or paper.
• The shelf life is not 3-4 years.

If all the conditions for collecting Icelandic moss are met, then its medicinal properties can provide the necessary therapeutic effect, quickly eliminating the symptoms of the disease. The main thing is to remember about the presence of contraindications and start therapy only after a medical consultation.

Article design: Natalie Podolskaya

Icelandic moss video

Video about Icelandic moss, its medicinal properties and contraindications:

Video on properly cleaning and grinding Icelandic moss:

The healing properties of Icelandic moss, recipes, reviews on the use were first described in the folk herbalists of Sweden, Norway, Iceland. Scandinavian peoples used cetraria for colds, indigestion, to strengthen the body after exhaustion. Also, infusions were used to treat skin for burns, cracks, wounds. In the twentieth century, the antibacterial properties and anti-tuberculosis effect of lichen were discovered. It is included in the pharmacopoeia of many countries, including Russia. It is used to prepare syrup, lozenges, creams and balms for external use.

Features of Icelandic moss

What is Icelandic lichen? How to harvest it correctly and where to collect it? What are the beneficial substances and pharmacological properties of this plant? Does he have any contraindications?

Botanical characteristic

Icelandic cetraria. Botanical illustration from the book "Köhler's Medizinal-Pflanzen", 1887.

From a botanical point of view, the correct name for this plant would be lichen, not moss. In fact, it is a living organism that consists of green algae and mushroom filaments. It is a small bush no more than 15 cm high - fork-branched, with a leaf thallus, curved, grooved blades resembling deer antlers. The color of the thallus can be different: olive green, brown, greenish gray, brown, light brown, with white splashes. It depends on weather conditions and area. Thallus are attached to tree trunks, old stumps or the ground with special hairs (rhizoids). Refers to polymorphic species, that is, its color, the size of the blades depends on light and humidity.

Cetraria moss grows slowly and only in an ecologically clean area. Lichen reacts to contaminated soil, water, air. This is a kind of indicator of environmental cleanliness. If the natural ecosystem is disturbed, Icelandic moss does not grow and gradually dies out.

Area

What is the distribution area of \u200b\u200bdeer moss? He loves high-mountain tundra, forest-tundra, peat bogs, swamps, coniferous forests with open sunny areas. It takes root on rocky soil. In addition to the Eurasian continent, it is found in Africa, Australia and North America. Where does it grow in Russia? Most often it can be seen in the forest-tundra zone of Siberia, in the tundra of the Far North, in the Far East, in the highlands of Altai and Sayan. In the European part, lichen can be found in the Leningrad, Arkhangelsk, Kostroma and Bryansk regions (Russian Polesie), in the forests of Karelia.

Blank

Icelandic cetraria forms thickets, often grows with other lichens. Due to the fact that this valuable species is slowly growing and dying out due to unfavorable ecology, a sparing collection is recommended. How to carry it out?

• Time. Best harvested in summer or autumn. It is important that the weather is dry. Wet lichen is extremely difficult to dry. Some healers believe that the plant can be harvested all year round.
• Method. It is necessary to choose dense thickets (layers) of lichen, but you should not remove everything completely. Moss is picked by hand, it breaks off quite easily from the soil or stump, then it is well cleaned of sand and earth. Do not wash before drying!
• Drying. Dry moss must be dried quickly in order to preserve nutrients in it as much as possible. Healers advise drying the lichen in the wind and open space. However, excess sunlight negatively affects the healing properties of the plant. In humid weather, it can be dried on verandas and attics.

Raw materials are laid out in linen bags, protected from sunlight and dampness, stored for 2 years.

pharmachologic effect

The healing properties of Icelandic moss:

• antibacterial;
• enveloping;
• expectorant;
• calming;
• emollient;
• choleretic;
• fortifying;
• tonic;
• appetizing;
• wound healing;
• immunostimulating;
• cleansing.

Useful material:

• carbohydrates;
• mineral salts and trace elements;
• mucus (lichenin, isolichenin);
• bitterness;
• fats;
• wax;
• volatiles;
• organic acids.

The nutritional properties of lichen are attributed to its high glucose and galactose content. It is not only a medicine, but also an energetically valuable food that can save you from hunger in the tundra. In addition, the plant is famous for its high content of enzymes, vitamins B and A, iodine. Usnic organic acid in its composition is a natural antibiotic.

Indications

When is Icelandic moss treatment most effective? For what diseases is it most often prescribed?

• Icelandic cough moss. This is the main use of lichen, recognized not only in folk but also in scientific medicine. Usnic lichen acid prevents the growth of tubercle bacilli, therefore it is the most effective herbal remedy for tuberculosis. It can also be taken for chronic bronchitis, bronchial asthma, whooping cough. Tsetraria softens the obsessive cough, relieves its attacks. In addition, it can suppress staphylococcal, streptococcal activity, helps with a cold of a viral and bacterial nature.
• For digestive disorders. Icelandic cetraria contains a lot of mucus, which has an enveloping, soothing effect. Therefore, it is useful to drink it with inflammation of the digestive tract, indigestion. An effective remedy for stomach ulcers, infectious diarrhea. Acts as a choleretic agent, improves digestion due to the high content of enzymes and bitterness, increases appetite, stimulates intestinal motility.
• External use of Icelandic lichen. For sore throat (sore throat, pharyngitis, laryngitis) and oral mucosa (stomatitis, gingivitis), rinse procedures are prescribed. Also, broths and infusions are used to treat purulent wounds, burns, cracks, cuts, boils, skin rashes with allergies.
• Benefits for men. In folk medicine, lichen is drunk to increase potency. They are also treated for bacterial prostatitis and other bacterial infections of the genitourinary tract.
• For women. The folk remedy has not found wide application in gynecology, however, with bacterial colpitis, it can be included in complex therapy. Also, the remedy is taken with mastopathy.
• For kids. It is useful to drink for bronchitis, whooping cough, to relieve attacks of severe cough. However, a doctor's consultation is required before use. It can also be used for local treatment - skin treatment for atopic dermatitis, wounds, burns.
• General tonic. Laboratory studies have shown that usnic acid also has immunostimulating properties. The tool strengthens the immune system, it is prescribed after operations and serious illnesses to restore the body and fast tissue regeneration.

What are the contraindications for Icelandic moss? These include autoimmune diseases, individual intolerance. Although children's age, pregnancy and lactation are not included in the list of contraindications, mandatory medical advice is required before use. It is also important to remember that usnic acid is a toxic substance. In case of an overdose, a long course, digestive disorders, pain in the liver are possible.

Preparation of home medicines and pharmaceutical preparations

What is the use of Icelandic cetraria at home? What medicines can be bought at the pharmacy? What dosage forms can you prepare yourself?

Pharmacy preparations

• Icelandic moss syrup. There are various commercial names for this drug, the most famous among them are "Herbion" and "Pectolvan". In addition to Icelandic cetraria, Pectolvan includes hyssop, thyme, elecampane, and soapwort. Icelandic moss syrup is prescribed for dry, obsessive cough. The medicine gives an enveloping, softening, soothing, expectorant effect. Helps with bacterial infections of the lower respiratory tract. "Gerbion" can be given to children after a year, but "Pectolvan" is allowed only from 12 years old. Also, this drug has a number of other contraindications - inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, the postoperative period on the organs of the gastrointestinal tract, urinary system, kidney and heart disease. The course of treatment and dosage for adults and children is prescribed by a doctor.
• Pills. The commercial name of the drug is "Isla-moos". These are lozenges for sucking in case of inflammation of the upper respiratory tract, hoarseness of the voice and stress on the vocal cords, dry cough, sore throat. The drug increases local immunity, relieves inflammation, dry mouth. Approved for use in children from 4 years old.
• Cream. The preparation contains bear fat, honey, beeswax, St. John's wort, calendula, essential oils of lavender, bergamot, eucalyptus, Icelandic moss. The instructions indicate indications for use: skin lesions, bruises, dislocations, wounds, colds, cough, joint pain. Icelandic moss has a tonic, antimicrobial, soothing, wound healing effect. The cream is applied to wounds and cracks, rubbed against the chest when coughing, rubbed into sore joints and spine.
• "Sodium will sleep." It is a crystalline powder obtained from cetraria and other lichen species. In a pharmacy, it can be purchased in different dosage forms - dry powder, oil, alcohol solution, with glycerin, or as part of a fir balm with anesthesin. The drug was discovered in the middle of the 20th century in the USSR. Today it is an effective antimicrobial agent for the treatment of burns, wounds, cracks.

Decoction

Apply internally and externally. Drink for all of the above diseases. For external use, more concentrated decoctions are acceptable.

Preparation

1. Take 1 tbsp. l. dry raw materials.
2. Pour 2 cups boiling water over.
3. Boil for 5 minutes.
4. Strain.

Take warm in the form of 1 tbsp. spoon 3 to 5 times a day. Also, the broth is taken for weight loss.

How to brew Icelandic moss for a cough

1. Take 2 tsp. raw materials.
2. Fill with a glass of cold water.
3. Bring to a boil over low heat.
4. Strain.

You can drink 1 glass 2-3 times a day. It is useful to take this tea with honey, or prepare it in milk instead of water. Also, when coughing, it is recommended to drink a mixture of herbs in equal parts: Icelandic moss and coltsfoot. It is especially useful to drink in the morning: it relieves coughing attacks, promotes the discharge of stagnant sputum. For whooping cough, it is recommended to prepare tea from cetraria and thyme (1: 1); for stomach ulcers - with flax seeds (1: 1); with impotence - with lemon balm, orchis, toadflax; for joint diseases - with melissa, linden, birch, lemon balm in equal proportions.

Infusion

How to prepare Icelandic cough moss without boiling it? For this, the raw materials are poured with cold water and only brought to a boil. Infusions are recommended to be taken in case of diseases of the respiratory and gastrointestinal tract. They are also drunk as a tonic, tonic and sedative.

Infusion recipe

1. Take 4 tbsp. l. raw materials.
2. Pour in ½ liter of water.
3. Bring to a boil.
4. Insist 10 minutes.
5. Strain.

You can take 1 tbsp. l. 3-5 times a day. When cooled, the infusions and broth turn into a jelly-like mass (jelly).

Tincture

It can be used internally for diarrhea, gastrointestinal diseases, severe coughing attacks, to strengthen immunity and normalize appetite. Topically used as an antiseptic for the oral cavity and skin.

Preparation

1. Take 50 g of dry crushed raw materials.
2. Pour a glass of alcohol 60 or 70%.
3. Insist in a dark place for 7 days.
4. Strain.

You can take 15 drops, 3 times a day. Alcohol tincture is contraindicated for children.

Cosmetology

What is the use of Icelandic moss in cosmetology? This remedy is prescribed internally in the form of decoctions or infusions for problem skin of the face: acne, pimples, boils. Cetraria is prized for its antiseptic, tonic, emollient and antibacterial properties. Water infusions for problem skin can be used as a lotion. The lichen contains a huge supply of vitamins and minerals - vitamins of group B, A, iron, nickel, manganese, zinc, boron, molybdenum, copper. Therefore, it is useful to drink tsetraria decoctions to strengthen hair.

Cetraria (Icelandic moss) is a natural antibiotic and antiseptic. It is most often prescribed for respiratory diseases - bronchitis, bronchial asthma, tuberculosis, whooping cough. In addition, the agent helps with inflammation of the digestive tract, quickly recovers strength after a serious illness, and strengthens the immune system.

Icelandic moss - lichen, which has anti-inflammatory, wound-healing and antimicrobial properties.

Latin name: Cetraria islandica.

English name: Iceland moss.

Synonyms: Icelandic tsetraria, lichen, reindeer moss, Parmelia lichen, Icelandic lichen.

Family: Parmeliad - Parmeliaceae.

Pharmacy name: thallus of Icelandic cetraria - Thalli Cetrariae islandicae.

Parts used: all parts of the moss.

Photo of a medicinal plant Icelandic moss (Cetraria Icelandic)

Description: The Icelandic cetraria thallus looks like a loose turf up to 10-15 cm high. It is formed by flat, in places grooved-rolled, lobes. The lower surface is lighter in color, it is light brown, almost to white, with numerous white spots and breaks in the bark, which serve for air penetration.

The lobes are irregularly ribbon-like, leathery-cartilaginous, narrow, flat, with short dark cilia. Depending on the light, the surface of these blades is brown or greenish-brown, shiny. The edges of the blades are slightly curved upward.

Fruit bodies are formed at the ends of the widened lobes. Saucer-shaped, brown in color, flat or slightly concave, 1.5 cm in diameter, with a slightly serrated edge.

Photo of a medicinal plant Icelandic moss (Cetraria Icelandic)

Habitat: a typical representative of ground lichens in pine forests, swamps, tundra and forest tundra. It grows directly on the soil or on the bark of old stumps. Prefers sandy unshaded places, where sometimes it forms almost pure thickets. It grows only in clean air.

Collection and procurement: Icelandic moss is harvested in dry summer weather, detached from the substrate, cleaned of plant debris and dried in the open air or in the sun, however, drying in dryers with good ventilation is more reliable. Raw materials are stored in bags or in wooden containers for 2 years.

Active ingredients: thalli of Icelandic moss contain biologically active substances of various groups: carbohydrates (70-80%) in the form of lichen starch lichenin (up to 64%) and isolichenin (up to 10%); sugar (13%) - of which glucose 97%, galactose (2.5%), mannose (0.5%); tannins (1-2%), iridoids - cetrarin (2-3%), lichen acids (2-3%) - cetraric, protocetrara, fumaroprotocetrara, paralyhesteric, usnic; trace elements - 100 g of the product contains 100 mg of iron, 2 mg of copper, 2.1 mg of manganese, 2.7 mg of titanium, 0.4 mg of nickel, 0.4 mg of chromium, 0.2 mg of boron, traces of molybdenum; vitamins - ascorbic and folic acids, vitamins A, B1, B2, B12, as well as proteins (0.5% -3%), fats (2-3%), wax (1%), gum and pigments (6-8 %).

Healing properties

In folk medicine, Icelandic moss is used as an antimicrobial, choleretic, laxative for diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, in the treatment of the upper respiratory tract, and even tuberculosis. Helps with the restoration of the body's strength after a serious illness, in the form of lotions and washings, it is used for microbial skin lesions, wounds, boils, burns. The bitter substance of moss centria promotes the secretion of gastric juice.

Self-medication is dangerous! Consult with your healthcare professional before home treatment.

Icelandic moss treatment recipes

1. Stomach atony... 3 tablespoons of Icelandic moss, pour 750 ml of water and put on fire for half an hour. As a result, you get a mass that is similar in consistency to jelly. This gruel should be consumed in one day.
2. Gum disease... 1 tablespoon of Icelandic cetraria pour 2 glasses of water, bring to a boil, leave for half an hour, drain. Take during the day 30 minutes before meals. A stronger broth is suitable for rinsing.
3. Bronchitis... Pour 1 teaspoon of Icelandic moss with a glass of boiling water and put in a dry and warm place for 10-15 minutes. Drink the infusion before going to bed, after adding 2 tablespoons of honey to it.
4. Bronchopulmonary diseases... Pour 1 heaping tablespoon of dry Icelandic cetraria into a glass of boiling whole milk. Boil for 5 minutes, drain. Drink at night, lying in bed under the covers.
5. Whooping cough... Brew 2 teaspoons of Icelandic moss with a glass of boiling water, leave for 30 minutes and drink 1-2 tablespoons 5-6 times a day before meals in courses of 10 days with intervals of 3-4 days. In total, you need to undergo 3 courses of treatment.
6. Whooping cough... Recipe for tea mixture (and Icelandic moss in equal parts): 1 tablespoon without top of the mixture is poured with 1/4 liter of boiling water, let it brew for 5 minutes and then filtered. Drink 1 cup 2-3 times a day.
7. Wound healing... Boil 2 tablespoons of Icelandic cetraria for 10 minutes in 1 glass of boiling water, leave for 8-10 hours, drain. Use for compresses and washing infected wounds.
8. Wound healing (recipe 2). Grind dry Icelandic moss on a coffee grinder, take 2 tablespoons of the resulting powder and combine with 1 cup of liquid pork lard, leave in a water bath for 5 hours, drain. Apply topically to heal infected wounds that do not heal for a long time.
9. Stomach upset... Boil 3 teaspoons of Icelandic cetraria for 10 minutes in 1 glass of water in a sealed container, warm and leave for 2 hours, drain. Take a decoction of 2-4 tablespoons 3 times daily before meals.
10. Tuberculosis... Take 4 tablespoons of Icelandic moss and pour 500 ml of cold boiled water over them. Put on fire for 5 minutes. After straining the broth, it can be taken in a couple of sips 3 times a day cold.
11. Improving metabolism... 1 tablespoon of dry Icelandic cetraria pour 0.5 liters of cold water, bring to a boil and simmer over low heat until the water evaporates by half. Take 80 ml three times a day after meals.
12. Stomach ulcer... Take Icelandic moss, and half a tablespoon each and pour 450 ml of boiling water over the whole. Put on fire for 7 minutes and strain after removing from heat. This broth is taken half an hour before meals, 70 ml 5 times a day.

Decoction recipes

• Pour 2 tablespoons of dry crushed moss with 1 cup of boiling water, boil for 7-8 minutes over low heat, let it brew for an hour, drain. Take 1 tablespoon before meals 4-5 times a day for chronic colitis with constipation, gastric ulcer and duodenal ulcer, gastritis, diarrhea, cough. Externally apply the broth for skin diseases, burns, systemic lupus erythematosus, dermatoses, trophic ulcers in the form of lotions, compresses.
• Icelandic moss milk decoction... Boil 1 tablespoon of dry crushed lichen with 2 cups of boiling water or 2 cups of hot milk, simmer over low heat for 5 minutes, cool, drain. Take half a glass 3-4 times a day with bronchitis, colds.

Infusion recipe

• Pour 2 teaspoons of dry Icelandic moss with 1 cup boiling water, leave for half an hour, drain. Take 2 tbsp. spoons 4-5 times a day before meals. The course of treatment is 10 days, it is recommended to repeat it three times with intervals of no more than 4 days.
  It is recommended to use the infusion for respiratory diseases (tuberculosis, bronchial asthma, pneumonia, whooping cough)... You can also replace the water with infusion of kombucha.

Cough tea recipe

1 teaspoon of Icelandic cetraria, pour hot boiling water, insist a little and drink like regular tea once a day, preferably at night.

Side effects... Not detected.

Contraindications... Individual intolerance.