You might have heard about the herb Usnea recently. It isn’t something we commonly hear a great deal about, but, recently, it’s been getting a bit more attention. Usnea is a powerful and versatile herb which has both anti-microbial and antibacterial properties, and may be used both topically and orally.
Did you know?
Orally, this herb may be used to cure lung illnesses like Bronchitis, moist or dry coughs, or other upper respiratory issues. Topically, it can be used to cure an array of infections. Also called Old Man’s beard, Beard Lichen, or Treemoss, Usnea develops in small hair-like tufts, with the green algae covering the white series like fungus.
This lichen grows all around the world, but especially thrives in moist climates such as the Pacific Northwest and can be found on the bark of several trees in forests of the Southeastern United States. It’s a gray-green covering on tree bark and is among the mildest yet most powerful immune tonics in the herb world. Usnea is a sort of lichen, which is a mix of an algae and a fungus growing together in a symbiotic union.
Let’s see…
The fungus belongs to the division Ascomycota, while the alga is a member of the division Chlorophyta. It’s classified as an aromatic and antibiotic herb, containing Lichenic acids, such as barbatic and lobaric acids. This combination is why Usnea can inhibit something as powerful as tuberculosis bacillus. Traditionally, Usnea has been used for a range of ailments such as headaches, ocular irritation, malaria, scorfula, leukorrhea, bleeding, carbuncle and poisonous snake bite.
As an immune system herb, it can be used to help cure sinus and respiratory infections, pneumonia, profuse phlegm, strep throat, colds, flues, in addition to, urinary tract, kidney, and bladder ailments. This may be helpful for those who have chronic fatigue syndrome, HIV, herpes, and other chronic ailments related to depressed immune systems. It’s beneficial for women with yeast infections trichonomosas, bacterial vaginosis, and chlamydia, and is used to deal with other fungal infections such as athlete’s foot and infected wounds.
Immune booster
In acute conditions, as well as for long term immune augmentation, Usnea has been used to encourage a more rapid healing procedure. This humble but effective plant might be your very best friend during the cold and flu season, or some other time your immune system needs an extra boost. It has no known oral side effects but can cause an allergic reaction to sensitive skin when applied topically, and it’s safe for kids and animals. The most common and best type of Usnea is in a tincture form.
As stated previously, because this herb may be used both orally and topically, it is implemented differently in every application. To use peacefully, combine 1 part Usnea with five components of thick stock jelly or cream to produce an antibacterial cream. Because some individuals may experience an allergic reaction when applied topically, constantly try using the topical mixture to a small patch of the affected area the first time and ensure that your skin isn’t sensitive to the properties of the herb.
Final note
To use orally, the standard dose at the tincture form is 6-12 drops in juice or water, or dropped directly under the tongue as desirable and it may be obtained up to 3 times per day. You should store tinctures in a dark cool place. Always keep them out of reach of children and always use standard guidelines for the appropriate dosages for children and animals, according to age and size. Now, go. And experience the unbelievable healing powers of the unassuming lichen. The data presented herein is meant for educational purposes only. These statements haven’t been evaluated by the FDA and aren’t meant to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent disease. Individual results may vary, and before using any supplements, it’s always a good idea to seek advice from your own medical care provider.