Usnea is a lichen with a long history of medical usage, and if you don’t know what it is or what it looks like, it’s probably been hiding in plain sight. Because of its bushy, hair-like appearance, it is also popularly referred to as “old man’s beard.” It grows best in damp, shady places like coastal forests or forests near a freshwater source.
UsneaPhoto byRichelleg
The secret to usnea’s healing is usnic acid. It is used to inhibit the growth of several viruses, fungi, and bacteria, both internally and externally. Usnea is the one thing I will never be without in my medicinal cabinet. It clears the chest like mullein, provides wound care like plantain, and heals like self-heal. A true MVP in herbal remedies!…