Health Benefits of Usnea
Health Benefits of Usnea (usnea barbata)
Usnea (usnea barbata), also known as old man’s beard, is a lichen that grows on trees in temperate and humid climates worldwide. Usnea has been used as traditional medicine for thousands of years. The Greek physician Hippocrates prescribed usnea as a treatment for uterine and urinary disorders. Today, usnea is commonly used to treat sore throats, reduce pain and fever, and accelerate wound healing.
Usnea has anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, anti-microbial, anti-viral, and cardiovasculoprotective properties.
Usnea is rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants help fight free radicals in the body and may help prevent the risk of chronic diseases.
Usnea may help promote wound healing. Usnea may treat skin inflammation and infections.
Usnea may help treat respiratory infections and inflammation.
Usnea may help treat digestive conditions such as ulcers, gastric inflammation, and digestive weakness.
Usnea may also promote weight loss due to its main active compound, usnic acid.
When taken by mouth, usnea is possibly unsafe. Usnea contains the usnic acid that may cause severe liver damage, upset stomach or even death.
When applied to the skin usnea is possibly safe but may cause allergic reactions, including skin rashes in some people.
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding then please do not consume.
As always, consult with your physician.
Sources:
https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-694/usnea
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/usnea#benefits