Usnea, also known as beard lichen or "old man's beard", is a slow-growing symbiotic organism found hanging from trees in cool, moist forests. Its delicate threads contain powerful antimicrobial compounds and have been used for centuries in traditional medicine.
Name
German: Bartflechte
English: Usnea, Beard Lichen
Latin: Usnea spp.
Plant Group / Family
Family: Parmeliaceae (Lichen family)
Subgroup: Lichenized fungi (symbiosis of fungus and algae)
Distribution
Native origin: Circumboreal – widespread in the Northern Hemisphere
Current distribution: Common in temperate and boreal forests worldwide, especially in areas with clean air
Identification
Height: No fixed height – forms hanging threads several centimeters long
Leaves: None – finely branched thallus structures
Flowers: None – Usnea is not a flowering plant
Fruit: None – reproduction via spore-producing structures (apothecia)
Bark/Stem: Thin, wiry, branched filaments with a characteristic elastic inner core
Uses
Medicinal:
- Antibacterial: Contains usnic acid, a potent natural antibiotic effective against gram-positive bacteria.
- Respiratory Support: Used in teas or tinctures to relieve coughs, bronchitis, and sore throats.
- Wound Care: Traditionally applied externally to disinfect wounds and promote healing.
Anti-inflammatory: Sometimes used to reduce localized inflammation.
Culinary:
Not edible – too bitter and indigestible. Used only in extracted forms (e.g., tinctures or salves).
Decorative:
Usnea adds a mystical, natural aesthetic to tree branches and is used in terrariums and rustic decorations.
Other:
Air Quality Indicator: Usnea thrives only in areas with clean, unpolluted air.
Ecosystem Role: Provides habitat for microfauna and helps retain moisture in forest canopies.
Toxicity
Toxic Parts: None under appropriate external use, but internal use must be cautious due to usnic acid
Symptoms: Potential liver toxicity with overuse or incorrect internal application
First Aid: Do not ingest in large amounts; consult a healthcare professional if concerned
Look-alike Species
Similar Lichens: Alectoria, Evernia, and some mosses
Differences: Usnea has a central elastic cord (test by gently pulling it apart), and typically has a gray-green color and frayed, beard-like form
Additional Information
Care: Not cultivated – grows slowly in natural environments
Growing Conditions: Moist, cool climates with clean air; commonly found on conifers and hardwoods
Special Notes: Often protected – only harvest from fallen branches and never over-harvest
Usnea Tincture
Ingredients:
1 part dried Usnea
5 parts high-proof alcohol (Vodka or Everclear, 60–70%)
Optional: 1 part water (for dual extraction)
Preparation:
Clean and fully dry the Usnea.
Tear into small pieces and place in a sterile glass jar.
Cover completely with alcohol (or alcohol/water mixture).
Let steep in a cool, dark place for 4–6 weeks, shaking occasionally.
Strain through a fine cloth and store in a dark dropper bottle.
Use:
Internal: 5–15 drops in water or tea (for respiratory support – only under guidance!)
External: Apply directly to wounds or irritated skin
Usnea Salve
Ingredients:
1/4 cup Usnea-infused oil (olive or sunflower oil)
2 tablespoons beeswax (or plant-based wax for vegan version)
Optional: Essential oils like lavender or tea tree
Preparation:
Gently melt oil and wax in a double boiler.
Stir until fully combined.
Add essential oils (optional).
Pour into small jars or tins and let cool.
Use:
Apply to minor cuts, scrapes, or dry, inflamed skin
Medical Disclaimer
The information and recipes shared here are for educational purposes only and do not substitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using herbal remedies, especially if pregnant, breastfeeding, or managing chronic conditions.
For a deeper look at Usnea’s quiet presence and ecological meaning in the forest, read the blog article “Usnea – Forest Wisdom in Threads”