A cold plant with a warm heart

The lichen thallus contains protective mucilages and specific acids that soothe the mucous membranes. It is also known for its gentle yet effective action against persistent coughs and dry mouth.

Description

Cut thallus, gray-brown to olive-green strips, soft to brittle texture, bitter and mucilaginous taste after infusion.

Nomenclature

• Common name: Iceland moss
• Latin name: Cetraria islandica
• Family: Parmeliaceae
• Part used: Thallus
• Shape: Cut
• Origin: Iceland, Scandinavia, Eastern Europe
• English name: Iceland moss
• Name in German: Isländisch Moos
• Name in Spanish: Musgo de Islandia
• Name in Italian: Lichene islandico
• Name in Arabic: طحلب آيسلندا

Main virtues

Soothes respiratory mucous membranes, calms dry coughs, protects the digestive system, supports chronic irritation of the throat or stomach.

Main constituents

Mucilages, lichen acids (usnic, protolichesterinic), starch, vitamin C, natural bitters.

Traditional use and dosage

• Decoction: 1 tablespoon for 250 ml of cold water, bring to a boil, boil for 5 minutes then infuse for 10 minutes. Filter. 1 to 3 cups per day.
• Long infusion: 1 tablespoon steeped for several hours to release the mucilages, drink warm.
• Tip: Can be boiled twice to remove some of the bitterness before consumption.

Precautions, side effects and contraindications

• Quite a strong bitter taste: sweeten with honey or liquorice if necessary.
• Do not use for prolonged periods without supervision (lichen acids).
• Not recommended for young children without medical advice.

History and use

Used in Iceland and the Nordic countries since the Middle Ages, Iceland moss was consumed as a medicinal plant and as flour during times of scarcity. Its reputation spread throughout Europe, particularly in preparations for winter ailments.

Miscellaneous information

• Packaging: lined kraft bag or airtight opaque box.
• Storage: dry place, away from light and humidity.
• Shelf life: 12 to 18 months.

Sources and references

• Pl@ntUse – https://uses.plantnet-project.org
• Nordic traditions and European herbalism
• Respiratory phytotherapy reference materials

Note to project creators and formulators:

Please note that we do not provide any technical documentation (datasheet, certificate, analysis, etc.) for quantities less than 1 kg. Documentation is reserved exclusively for registered professionals (SIRET number or equivalent required) and for clearly identified projects. Thank you for your understanding.

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The products on aromacentre.fr are not medicines. They are natural, plant-based treatments. All usage advice on our site is for informational purposes only. Any additional requests should be made to a qualified healthcare professional. In accordance with Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 20 December 2006 on nutrition and health claims made on foods, we are unable to publish this information on the site. Taking this product does not exempt you from consulting a doctor or prescribing it. Ask your doctor or healthcare practitioner for advice. Be sure to read the precautions for use before using any medicinal plants. The use of herbal preparations is not recommended without consulting your doctor or pharmacist. The substances they contain may interact with medications prescribed by the patient, reducing their therapeutic effectiveness or causing toxicity. They can also worsen the weakening of the body's vital functions, thus exposing the patient to increased morbidity and life-threatening risks.

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