Usnea is one of my all time favorite lichens and has been calling to me from the tree tops for the past couple months. I recently had a dream about this fabulous lichen while preparing for the latest episode of the Astro-herbalism series on VibeRant w/Chance Garton, Kyle Denton, Mario Garza and Gabriel. In my dream I found a patch of usnea on a tree. As I walked toward the tree, gaze fixed upon the usnea, I heard a voice say “I am the guardian of the forest Aether”, then I woke up. I was quite excited by this and wrote the message down because I knew it was an insight straight from “Old Man” Usnea himself.
This forest lichen is one of the most potent, yet gentle remedies for lung health, first-aid and supporting the immune system and the body's natural detox process. It slowly grows upon the bark of trees and rocks throughout forests of North America and is sometimes referred to as “Old Man's Beard” or “Lungs of the Forest”. Because it depends upon moisture in the atmosphere to thrive, it's presence and growth is an indication of very good air quality and because this lichen is intolerant to air pollution.
It's a helpful ally for conditions of the lungs like: asthma, bronchitis, strep throat, pneumonia and ailments involving thick, heavy mucous that lingers. Usnea cools inflammation and can offer relief to urinary tract, kidney, bladder and yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis and even staph infections. Its ability to stimulate the lymphatic system and support the body's natural ability to heal is something to behold. It's also very safe for children, animals and adults alike.
This slow growing lichen can be harvested in abundance from fallen branches after windstorms and utilized fresh to make tinctures, decoctions, double extracts, and in acute situations as an herbal band-aid to protect wounds. It can also be dried and stored for later use to make oil infusions, creams, styptic powders, fires starters, terrarium and home décor.
As for energetic medicine, usnea can offer support for folks who may have a hard time “seeing the forest through the trees”. In other words, it can help one see the “bigger picture” of a situation instead of getting lost and hyper focused upon one specific detail. The words rest, evaluate and review come to mind when trying to describe how usnea may help someone cultivate their inner wisdom.
In my opinion, usnea has the essence of a wise grandfather with abundant life experience and stories to tell. He provides protection when we need it most, lessons in patience and an opportunity to breathe deeply and relax.