Iceland Moss (Cetraria islandica) medical properties

 


Iceland moss, scientifically known as Cetraria islandica from the Parmeliaceae family, is valued for its ability to soothe the respiratory and digestive systems due to its high mucilage content. This mucilage helps alleviate inflammation and irritation, making Iceland moss an essential herb for addressing coughs and digestive issues.

Texture and Flavour
Iceland moss possesses a slightly bitter taste and a distinctive texture. When dry, it is crisp and paper-thin, easily breaking apart. Once soaked in water, it becomes soft, pliable, and slightly gelatinous. This slippery, mucus-like texture is particularly soothing for the throat and other mucous membranes.

Medicinal Uses
Primarily utilized as a demulcent, Iceland moss forms a protective layer over mucous membranes, aiding in the treatment of throat and oral irritation, as well as dry coughs. Its expectorant properties make it beneficial for those with chronic coughs, bronchial irritation, or respiratory dryness. In the digestive system, it can ease gastric and duodenal ulcers by coating the stomach and intestines, protecting irritated tissues and promoting healing. It also helps with acid reflux and oesophageal irritation, thanks to its demulcent and anti-inflammatory properties.




Topical and Energetic Qualities
Iceland moss is used in skincare for its soothing and antimicrobial benefits, helping with conditions like eczema and dry skin. Energetically, it is cooling and moistening, suitable for soothing dry, inflamed tissues. Its demulcent and bitter qualities make it both calming and stimulating for digestion. The plant symbolizes protection and resilience, reflecting its ability to thrive in harsh environments, and is associated with clarity and endurance in plant spirit medicine.

Historical and Culinary Uses
Historically, Iceland moss was a crucial food and medicine source during scarcity in Nordic regions. Indigenous Sámi and Nordic peoples used it in porridge or bread, and it was boiled for medicinal broths for respiratory issues. In Iceland, it was included in various traditional dishes and even used to produce schnapps. During the beet sugar shortage in Russia in 1942, it was used industrially to extract glucose.

Herbal Actions and Modern Research
Iceland moss, known for its mucilaginous content, is a remedy for respiratory and digestive mucosa irritation. It helps with dry throats, coughs, digestion, and gastric ulcers. Its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and immune-modulating properties are attributed to lichen acids and polysaccharides. Studies have explored its benefits in cough syrups and lozenges, showing favourable efficacy and tolerance.

Clinical Studies
A German study on Iceland moss-based paediatric cough syrup showed a 60% reduction in cough intensity, with high efficacy and excellent tolerance. Another study on lozenges demonstrated significant improvement in children with upper respiratory conditions, with minimal adverse reactions. Research has highlighted its immunomodulatory effects and strong antioxidant potential, suggesting its traditional use in treating inflammatory conditions.


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