Usnea

Usnea – Wildcrafted Immune & Respiratory Herbal Support

Botanical Name: Usnea barbata
Category: Medicinal Lichen | Antimicrobial Herb | Immune & Respiratory Support
Form: Tincture, Dried Lichen, or Powdered Extract

Description

Usnea, also known as Old Man’s Beard, is a unique lichen—a symbiotic blend of fungus and algae—renowned for its potent antimicrobial and immune-supportive properties. Wild-harvested from clean, forested environments, Usnea has long been used in traditional Western herbalism to address upper respiratory infections, sore throats, urinary tract infections, and wound care.

Rich in usnic acid, Usnea offers broad-spectrum action against bacteria, viruses, and fungi, while also supporting the lymphatic system and mucous membranes. It is most often used in tincture form for internal or topical applications.

Medicinal Benefits

🛡️ Antibacterial & Antiviral: Effective against upper respiratory pathogens, including those responsible for colds, sinus infections, bronchitis, and strep throat

🌬️ Respiratory Support: Soothes inflamed tissues, reduces phlegm, and supports recovery from bronchial infections

💧 Urinary Tract Health: Antimicrobial action helps combat UTIs and bladder irritation

⚔️ Wound Disinfectant: Can be used topically to prevent infection in cuts, scrapes, or fungal skin conditions

🌿 Lymphatic Support: Helps drain and detoxify swollen glands and lymphatic stagnation

How to Use (Dosing Guidelines)

💧 Tincture:

Adults: Take 30–60 drops (1.5–3 mL) up to 3 times daily for acute infection or immune support

For sore throat: Hold in mouth briefly before swallowing

May be applied topically on wounds or skin infections (use diluted)

🌿 Tea/Infusion (less common due to low water solubility):

Simmer 1–2 tsp dried lichen in water for 15–20 minutes

Strain and drink 1–2 times daily, or use as a gargle

Precautions

⚠️ Not for long-term use in high doses—usnic acid in excess may stress the liver

❌ Avoid during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless directed by a healthcare provider

🧪 Choose ethanol-based tinctures for best extraction (usnic acid is poorly water-soluble)

Always source from clean, wild or verified organic environments—Usnea absorbs toxins from polluted air

Energetic Profile

Taste: Bitter, astringent

Energetics: Cooling, drying

Affinities: Lungs, throat, urinary tract, lymphatic system

Element: Air & Earth

Summary

Usnea is a forest-grown powerhouse for natural immune defense. Whether you're facing respiratory infections, battling chronic bacterial imbalances, or simply fortifying your system, this wildcrafted lichen offers ancient, time-tested support—rooted in the wisdom of nature and the resilience of the forest.