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Writer's pictureTracey Lenac

Harvesting Usnea Lichen for Medicine


Usnea Lichen is a natural antibiotic, antiviral, antibacterial, antiparasitic, antiseptic and immune tonic.


Also called Old Man's Beard. It is most commonly used as an antibacterial against urinary tract infections, upper respiratory infections, strep throat, tuberculosis and pneumonia.


The antiviral properties of Usnea inhibit Epstein Barr and Herpes Simplex virus.


It can also be used topically. I plan to make a salve to use instead of Neosporin for minor cuts, scrapes etc. Particularly due to the fact that overuse of Neosporin has led to antibiotic resistance/MRSA.


It has also been shown to prevent tick born viral infections like Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever when immediately placed on the site of the tick bite.


If antibiotics are needed, Usnea has been shown to increase their effectiveness.


When foraging for Usnea, never take it from live trees. Look for fallen branches and only take what you need.


If you're unable to harvest your own Usnea, we carry an amazing anti-bacterial formulation. Check it out here: https://www.asunderwellness.com/product-page/herb-iotic

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