Herb of the Week: Usnea

Usnea, which also goes by the name "Old Man's Beard" is a lichen. This lichen has been used in medicinal preparations in European, Chinese, and Native American cultures for ages (Native American traditions have even used this to make fiber, diapers, bandages, and clothing). 



We first became interested in this particular medicinal herb in regards to how it helps alleviate bladder infections (UTIs) and their symptoms when used with other medicinal herbs. Why is this particular herb helpful for that? Because of it's antimicrobial effects (usnic acid) against gram-positive bacteria that can cause UTIs. 



But, that's not all it's good for. Usnea also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that helps boost your immune and respiratory health. They've also found that this little powder green lichen may have the potential to seek and destroy cancer cells!

There's not a lot of talk, as far as we can tell, about usnea but we have just added a tincture in our store with usnea that will help alleviate UTI discomfort. Check it out here.

Magically? It's also called "Witch's Hair" and we can understand how it got that name. It can be used for protection and healing but is also known to attract good fortune. Use it in rituals or spells for protection, love, and banishment. A common practice is to use it in mojo bags.