Iceland Moss
Cetraria islandica
Cetraria islandica, commonly known as Iceland moss, is a lichen traditionally found in Arctic and sub-Arctic regions. While it has been used historically for various purposes such as food and traditional remedies in some cultures, there are no specific recorded traditional uses associated with this plant. Scientific evidence suggests that Cetraria islandica may have potential antiviral properties, particularly against SARS-CoV-2 and HSV-2, due to the presence of lichesterinic acid which showed broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity. Additionally, studies indicate that cyclodextrin-based systems prepared from Cetraria islandica extracts can enhance solubility and biological activity compared to pure extracts. However, the evidence is still limited in scope and strength. No major safety issues or drug interactions have been recorded for this plant.
- Best evidence
- D
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- The study evaluated antiviral activity of various plant extracts, including Cetraria islandica, against SARS-CoV-2 and HSV-2.
- Lichesterinic acid from Cetraria islandica showed potential as a broad-spectrum antimicrobial with synergistic effects against antibiotics.
- The study found that cyclodextrin-based systems prepared via solvent evaporation showed enhanced solubility and biological activity compared to pure Cetraria islandica extracts.
- Lichen species richness increased rapidly early in succession but stagnated or declined in older stages.
Frequently asked questions
What is Iceland Moss?
Iceland Moss (Cetraria islandica) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about Iceland Moss?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Iceland Moss; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: The study evaluated antiviral activity of various plant extracts, including Cetraria islandica, against SARS-CoV-2 and HSV-2.
How strong is the evidence for Iceland Moss?
The strongest finding for Iceland Moss carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Iceland Moss safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Iceland Moss in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Iceland Moss interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Iceland Moss in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Iceland Moss?
Iceland Moss is also known as: Цетрария исландская.
Is Iceland Moss a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 Succession of Lichens in Front of Retreating Glaciers in Sweden and Norway. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Cyclodextrin-Based Systems of Cetraria islandica Extracts: A Novel Approach to Improve Solubility and Biological Activity of Lichen-Derived Natural Products. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Unearthing anti-MRSA agents from alpine lichens: discovery and characterization of bioactive compounds in Cetraria islandica from the snowy Cangshan region. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Antiviral Activity of Plant-Based Preparations against SARS-CoV-2 and Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 In Vitro: A Review of Experimental Findings. literature abstract metadata