Condition
Treatment Support
antibacterial, antifungal, immune stimulant
Application
tincture, tea
Usnea
(Usnea spp.)
Also know as Old Man's Beard
Botanical Information
A lichen which hangs in gray-green strands from pines, oaks, fir, and assorted fruit trees throughout the northern hemisphere. Lichens are unique organisms formed by an association between a green algae and a fungus.
Working with Usnea
Part(s) Used
Thallus
Herb Forms
Tincture, bulk herb
Christopher Hobbs:
“Usnea is a common lichen known as the “herbal antibiotic.” In laboratory trials it has shown powerful inhibitory activity against strep, staph, and pneumonia infections. It is often useful for any bacterial infection of the urinary or respiratory tracts. In Chinese medicine usnea is used for headache, eye irritation, cough, and leucorrhea.
Usnea has a taste of ACRID, BITTER and a temperature of COOL.”
Historical Uses
- Usnea has been used for centuries in traditional medicine, particularly in Asia and Europe, for its antimicrobial and wound-healing properties.
- It was employed to treat respiratory infections, wounds, urinary tract infections, and digestive issues.
Modern Clinical Uses (by Herbalists & Naturopaths)
- Antimicrobial: Applied topically for wounds, cuts, and skin infections.
- Respiratory Support: Used in tinctures and teas for bronchitis, pneumonia, and sore throats.
- Immune Support: Often combined with other herbs to support immune function.
- Antifungal: Helps manage fungal infections like athlete’s foot or candida.
Chemistry
- Usnea contains usnic acid, a secondary metabolite responsible for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects.
- Other constituents include polysaccharides, lichen acids, and lipids.
Pharmacology
- Antimicrobial: Usnic acid exhibits potent antibacterial activity, particularly against Gram-positive bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus species.
- Antifungal: Active against various fungal species.
- Anti-inflammatory: May inhibit pro-inflammatory cytokines.
- Antioxidant: Shows free radical scavenging potential.
Clinical Trials
- Limited high-quality clinical trials exist. Preliminary studies indicate promising antimicrobial and antifungal properties, but most research is in vitro or animal-based.
- Further studies are needed to confirm efficacy and safety in humans, particularly for internal use.
Summary
Usnea is a versatile lichen with historical and modern uses, particularly for infections and inflammation. While its pharmacological properties are supported by laboratory research, the lack of robust clinical trials and concerns over liver toxicity necessitate cautious use, particularly for internal applications. It remains a staple in herbalism and naturopathy but should be used responsibly.
Generated by ChatGPT; edited by Christopher Hobbs
Cautions
Generally safe when used topically or in small doses orally.
Potential for liver toxicity with prolonged or high-dose internal use due to usnic acid.
Can cause skin irritation in some individuals when applied topically.
Not recommended during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or in individuals with liver conditions.
Large doses can cause gastrointestinal irritation.
Conditions treated with Usnea
Condition
Treatment Support
Application
Condition
Treatment Support
cooling expectorant
Application
tincture
Condition
Treatment Support
antibacterial
Application
tincture
Condition
Treatment Support
antibacterial, immune stimulant
Application
tincture externally
Condition
Treatment Support
urinary antiseptic, immune modulator
Application
tincture
Condition
Treatment Support
heat-clearing, antibiotic
Application
tincture
Condition
Treatment Support
heat-clearing
Application
tincture
Condition
Treatment Support
antibacterial
Application
tincture
Condition
Treatment Support
antibacterial
Application
salve, cream, tincture
Condition
Treatment Support
antibacteral
Application
tincture
Condition
Treatment Support
antibacterial
Application
tincture
The information given here is designed to help you make informed choices about your health. The information is drawn from numerous sources—both traditional medicine practice, from the clinical experience of many herbalists currently practicing, and supported by decades of scientific research from the author. The research most consulted includes human clinical trials that help to determine the most effective and safe herbs for various needs, the best doses, and types of preparations.
The information offered in this database is not intended as a substitute for any that may have been prescribed by your health practitioner or physician.
