Cetraria Islandica

Cetraria islandica, commonly known as Iceland Moss, is a lichen native to northern Europe and Arctic regions, traditionally used in herbal medicine for its demulcent, tonic, anti-inflammatory, and immune-modulating properties. Though called a "moss," it is a lichen formed from a symbiotic relationship between fungus and algae, known for its effectiveness in treating cardio-pulmonary ailments, gastrointestinal issues, and as an appetite stimulant.

Other Common Names:

• Icelandic Moss

• Celand Moss

• Iceland Lichen

• Consumption Moss

• Cetraria

• Eryngo-leaved Liverwort

Family:

• Lichene (Lichen)

• Parmeliaceae

Description:

• Type: Erect or ascending foliaceous lichen resembling moss

• Color: Pale chestnut to greyish-white

• Size: 3 to 4 inches tall

• Structure: Branches are channelled or rolled into tubes, terminating in flattened lobes with fringed edges

Constituents:

• Polysaccharides (e.g., branched galactomannan)

• Protolichesterinic acid (an aliphatic alpha-methylene-gamma-lactone)

• Secondary metabolites with biological activity

Traditional Uses:

• Used for centuries in folk medicine of Northern Europe

• Especially valued for cardio-pulmonary problems

• Traditional remedy for catarrh, tuberculosis, digestive issues, and dysentery

• Combined with Horehound for nausea and vomiting

• Used as an appetite stimulant in anorexia nervosa

• Historically applied for gastric and duodenal ulcers

• Relied upon as a demulcent and tonic herb

Therapeutic Uses:

Primary Actions:

• Demulcent

• Tonic

• Anti-inflammatory

• Appetite stimulant

Applied for:

1. Cardio-pulmonary ailments (catarrh, tuberculosis)

2. Nausea, vomiting, and indigestion

3. Dysentery and digestive problems

4. Appetite loss and anorexia nervosa

5. Gastric and duodenal ulcers

6. Strengthening immune response (in vitro and in vivo immunomodulating effects)

Modern Research Highlights:

• Shows antioxidant, antimicrobial, antiviral, and immune-modulating properties

• Demonstrated anti-HIV-1 activity and potential anticancer properties in preliminary studies
  (further research ongoing)

• Traditionally prepared aqueous extracts display notable anti-inflammatory effects

Key Notes:

• Though promising in laboratory and animal studies, human clinical evidence remains limited for some modern uses

• Primarily recommended for gastric, pulmonary, and immune-related disorders in traditional herbal practice

• Considered safe when used traditionally, but dosage should be monitored in contemporary applications