Scientific name
Cetraria islandica
Family
Parmeliaceae
Origin
Mountainous terrain
Synonyms
Iceland lichenParts Used
Drug consisting of thalli
Chemical constituents
- Polysaccharides;
- Usnic acid;
- Lichen (bitter) acids;
- Mucilage.
Icelandic Lichen in Herbal Medicine: Properties of Icelandic Lichen
Usnic acid has bactericidal activity and mucilages have gastroprotective properties. Iceland lichen can be used as an anti-inflammatory for gargle against pharyngotonsillitis (mucilaginous extracts).
Contraindications
Avoid taking Icelandic lichen in case of gastritis and peptic ulcer, due to the presence of bitter principles, or in case of ascertained hypersensitivity to one or more components.
Pharmacological interactions
- NSAIDs;
- gastrointestinal drugs.