Usnea Lichen Whole, Wild Crafted

[ 1390 ]
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per 1/4 Pound
Quantity:  
$14.11 
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per Pound
Quantity:  
$30.67 

Usnea, also known as Old Man’s Beard and Woman's Long Hair, is a type of lichen that grows on trees. Specifically, it’s an example of a symbiotic relationship between a fungus and an algae.

Usnea is considered an herb because it has several practical uses, evidenced by its use for more than 1,500 years. The whole specimen, which is high in vitamin C and other antioxidants, is typically used to make tinctures and extracts for cosmetic use. Usnea lichen is also a common ingredient is natural deodorants.

kosher certificate informationwild crafted information

a.
quick look

information at a glance

approximate cups to one pound22
originunited states
active compoundsUsnic acid, Mucilage
plant part usedwhole herb
processingwhole

b.
buying & keeping

general guidelines and tips

storage tipsStore in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
appearance & aromaFibrous and string-like, without detectable fragrance.

c.
uses

try something new

cosmeticPowder and incorporate into salves and ointments.
culinaryTincture or powder the herb and encapsulate as a dietary supplement.

some recommendations

other products to love

[ oregon grape root ]

[ tip: Combine usnea lichen with Oregon grape in tinctures. ~ from Monterey Bay Herb Company ]

Combine usnea lichen with Oregon grape in tinctures.

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[ sweet almond oil ]

[ tip: Infuse usnea lichen in sweet almond oil to make salves and ointments.  ~ from Monterey Bay Herb Company ]

Infuse usnea lichen in sweet almond oil to make salves and ointments.

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d.
flavor profile

whole
usnea lichen

Usnea is not a culinary herb.

e.
formulas & recipes

whole
usnea lichen

Coming soon.

f.
what else you should know

whole
usnea lichen

Usnea is one of 600 species of lichen that exists as thread-like hanging clumps from the branches of certain trees, including conifers and hardwoods. It’s actually a fungus and an algae combined. The latter is represented by the fibrous outer strands, and the elastic white strand at the center of the clump is the fungus.

This herb has a long history of use in Chinese pharmacology, as well as in North American herbalism. It is used both internally and externally and is considered a potent antimicrobial and antifungal. Its compounds are particularly effective against gram positive bacteria, such as Streptococci and Staphylococci.


for educational purposes only

This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

please be advised: 
Before making any changes to your diet you should always consult with your doctor,
especially if you are pregnant, nursing or have existing conditions.