ICELAND MOSS

Cetraria islandica is a species of fruticose soil lichen typical of mountainous areas. It has a leafy thallus with lobes, is up to 10-15 cm high, and has a cartilaginous consistency, light olive green in the upper part, and greyish-white in the lower part. Iceland moss contains polysaccharides and bitter lichenic acids (usnic acid, cetraric acid), folic acid, and several B vitamins. Iceland moss contains lichenin, which has respiratory decongestant properties and plays a protective role against coughs and sore throats. Usnic acid gives the plant antimicrobial and antiseptic properties which aid in kidney, respiratory and gastrointestinal disorders.