- Region
- Europe
- Origin
- Europe, Asia, North America, Africa (temperate regions worldwide)
- Traditions
- Western herbal medicine
Europe · Other · № 597
Usnea barbata
Other · Europe
Usnea
Usnea barbata
Traditionally attributed effects: antimicrobial, antifungal, immunomodulating, soothing, laxative, nourishing; against streptococci (sore throat), staphylococci, cellulitis and infected wounds, antiviral (HPV), yeast infections.
Safety notes
Not in pregnancy. Traditional use is no proof of effectiveness; if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Cautions by tradition (1)
- Western herbalism: Not in pregnancy.
Preparation
Decoction/tea: 1 tbsp per cup, simmer gently 5 min + steep 10 min, 1–3 cups a day; tincture 1 dropperful 3 times a day; externally on wounds.
Use in traditions
Usnea is a lichen that hangs from trees like grey beards where the air is clean. It contains usnic acid, which inhibits bacteria. In Chinese and Scandinavian folk medicine it was laid on wounds, and in Finland it was fed to livestock in times of need. In modern Western herbalism it is used for throat and respiratory infections.
Applications
Use by tradition
How different herbal traditions describe this herb. Amounts are traditional guidelines checked for obvious errors; they are not medical advice. For poisonous plants no dosage is given on purpose.
Western herbalism
Attributed effects
Antimicrobial, antifungal, immunomodulating, soothing, laxative, nourishing; against streptococci (sore throat), staphylococci, cellulitis and infected wounds, antiviral (HPV), yeast infections.
Preparation and amount
Decoction/tea: 1 tbsp per cup, simmer gently 5 min + steep 10 min, 1–3 cups a day; tincture 1 dropperful 3 times a day; externally on wounds.
Caution: Not in pregnancy.
- Ways to prepare herbs
- Tea (infusion)DecoctionTincture