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Usnea
Also known as Old Man’s Beard, I’ll let you guess why. There are several species of this unique algae/fungus combination, that can be identified by the elastic white thread that grows in the middle. Stephen Buhner lists it as one of the most powerful herbal antibiotics.
Usnea barbata
Family: Usneacea - lichen
Parts used: whole lichen
Antibiotic
Antibacterial
Antiviral
Antifungal
Antimicrobial
Vulnerary
Energetics/Body Systems Affected
Cooling
Drying
Respiratory
Uses
Lung support; infections, pleurisy, pneumonia, tuberculosis, bronchitis, etc.
Colds, flu, sore throat, strep throat.
Infections of all kinds including strep, staph, impetigo, sinus, urinary tract, etc.
Wounds and sores, especially those that won’t heal such as diabetic sores.
Immune tonic
Lymph balance
Chronic fatigue, herpes, and other chronic conditions.
Extract (best form for internal use)
Powder, capsules
Herbal oil, salve, balm
Foraging/Harvesting
Grows on trees in moist, cool areas with clean, fresh air. Hangs like a green beard in the tops of trees and on branches.
Collect from fallen branches first. Lichens grow very slowly so check the ground first, if you must take from a tree, only take exactly what you need.
Safety
Not for use during pregnancy. It should not be taken for longer than 3-4 weeks at a time without a rest for a couple of weeks, as it can build toxicity in the liver over time.
References
Herbal Antibiotics
