Club Moss Cut & Sifted, Wild Crafted

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Despite the name, club moss isn't a true moss but is a spore-producing plant in the fern family. Because this erect, low-growing plant resembles a miniature pine bough, it is also known as Running Pine, Princess Pine and many other names.

The spores, which contain high levels of aluminum, were once used to make flash powder for theatrical use and in early photography. Today, the leaves and stems are made into tea. They are also used to manufacture a powder used in the pharmaceutical industry to absorb moisture and prevent pills from adhering to each other.

kosher certificate informationwild crafted information

a.
quick look

information at a glance

approximate cups to one pound5
originchina
active compoundsAlkaloids, Flavonoids, Polyphenols, and triterpenes.
plant part usedspores
processingcut & sifted
sustainabilitywild crafted

b.
buying & keeping

general guidelines and tips

storage tipsStore in a sealed container in a cool, dark place.
appearance & aromaWoody and pine-like in appearance with no remarkable aroma.

c.
uses

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cosmeticThe powdered herb (spores) are used topically to counter eczema and other moist conditions much like powdered oatmeal is. Similarly, it can be added to the bath.
culinaryClub moss is usually encapsulated or tinctured, but it can be taken as tea. (See safety note.)
industrialUse in the pharmaceutical industry to deter moisture in pill bottles.
safetyClub moss spores are safe, but be aware that large doses of the leaves or stems pose a risk of nerve toxicity due to the presence of the alkaloids lycopodine and clavadine. This product is produced from the spores.

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[ press 'n brew tea bags ]

[ tip: Steep a tea bag of club moss in hot water for use as a poultice.   ~ from Monterey Bay Herb Company ]

Steep a tea bag of club moss in hot water for use as a poultice.

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[ arrowroot ]

[ tip: Mix with arrowroot to make a dusting powder.  ~ from Monterey Bay Herb Company ]

Mix with arrowroot to make a dusting powder.

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d.
flavor profile

wildcrafted, cut & sifted
club moss

Club moss spores are not generally used for culinary purposes due to a high aluminum content.

e.
formulas & recipes

wildcrafted, cut & sifted
club moss

coming soon

e.
formulas & recipes

wildcrafted, cut & sifted
club moss

coming soon

f.
what else you should know

wildcrafted, cut & sifted
club moss

Club moss, also known as Wolf's Claw, Ground Pine, Staghorn and Foxtail, is an ancient plant that evolved from giant specimens that inhabited primeval forests millions of years ago. It is not a true moss, however, but is a member of the fern tribe and reproduces by sending out spores.

In the early days of photography, club moss spores, which contain a highly flammable oil, were used to make flash powder. The spores were also used by stage managers to create dramatic lighting effects in live theater. In these professions, the herb was usually referred to as vegetable sulfur.

Today, a powder prepared from club moss spores is used in the pharmaceutical industry to coat tablets to protect them from moisture. The water-resistant properties of this powder are also put to use in the manufacture of highly combustible materials, such as explosives and fireworks.


Background: Club moss grows all over the world, but is most common in the moors of England. The spores are collected in the summer months of July and August. The tops of the plants are cut off and shaken to release yellow spores.

The spores have been used since ancient times. 

Club moss spores are hydrophobic and are very resistant to water. They're also used in fireworks because of their ability to explode when burned.

Description: The club moss is a creeping evergreen moss. It grows to 3 inches in diameter and has numerous branches. It grows with bright green leaves and scaly spikes.  

Safety: Club moss can be toxic if used in too high of a dose. This plant should only be taken under the supervision of a health professional to prevent overdose.

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.