USNEA EXTRACT

Botanical name: Usnea

Part used: Dry lichen

Ingredients: Dry Usnea, certified organic non-GMO cane alcohol and pure Adirondack water.

Percentage of alcohol used: 45-50%

Ratio plant to menstruum: 1:5

Safety considerations: None noted 

About: We have seen this unusual lichen, also known as “Old Man’s Beard” hanging in long tendrils of grayish-green on the branches of tall evergreens that stand on the rocky shore facing the North Atlantic. This is but one place where Usnea grows. It is said that where Usnea lichen grows, the air is especially clean and clear. We prepare our Usnea extract from various species of Usnea lichens which have been sustainably wild crafted in their native habitat. Cosmetically can be used in deodorant due to its antimicrobial properties.

What is usnea used for? Some of the conditions that it’s typically used to treat include:

• Human papilloma virus (HPV) symptoms, when combined with other substances, including zinc sulfate. This preparation can be applied to the vagina before and after surgical removal of HPV sores to help with healing and reduce recurrence of HPV.
• Pain
• Fever
• Swelling and inflammation
• Kidney problems
• Coughs
• Indigestion
• Certain types of infections, such as those affecting the throat, respiratory tract, mouth, skin and urinary tract
• Skin wounds that won’t easily heal
• Weight gain, due to its potential ability to support metabolic processes
• Possibly certain types of cancer, due to its antioxidant and free radical-scavenging capabilitiesUsnea Benefits, Uses, Dosage, Side Effects and More - Dr. Axe (draxe.com)