Iceland Moss
Also known as: Cetraria islandica, Iceland moss, Icelandic moss, Cetraria
Overview
Iceland moss, scientifically known as *Cetraria islandica*, is a lichen found in northern and alpine regions, particularly Iceland and Scandinavia. It has a long history of traditional use for various ailments, primarily related to the digestive and respiratory systems. This lichen contains polysaccharides, lichen acids, and other secondary metabolites that contribute to its potential biological activities. Traditionally, it has been used to treat coughs, colds, constipation, and irritation of the mouth and throat. While preclinical studies suggest antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties, clinical evidence supporting these uses in humans remains limited. Iceland moss is typically consumed as a tea, extract, or lozenge. Due to the potential for contamination, especially with heavy metals, caution is advised with long-term or high-dose use. Further research is needed to confirm its efficacy and safety.
Benefits
Clinical evidence for the benefits of Iceland moss in humans is limited. Preclinical studies suggest potential antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. Specifically, in vitro and animal models indicate possible anticancer and antidiabetic effects, but these have not been confirmed in human trials. The primary traditional uses are for digestive and respiratory ailments, such as coughs, colds, and throat irritation, but robust clinical trials are lacking to support these applications. The available evidence does not support specific benefits for particular populations. Effect sizes and clinical significance have not been quantified in human trials, and the time course of any potential benefits is not established.
How it works
The mechanism of action of Iceland moss is not fully elucidated, but it is believed that its polysaccharides and lichen acids play a key role. These compounds may exert antimicrobial effects by inhibiting microbial growth and antioxidant effects by neutralizing free radicals. Additionally, they may modulate the immune response and reduce inflammation by affecting inflammatory cytokines. The primary interaction is with the digestive and respiratory systems, where it may soothe irritation and support immune function. However, the absorption and bioavailability of its active components, particularly the high molecular weight polysaccharides, are poorly studied.
Side effects
Iceland moss is considered possibly safe for short-term use. However, long-term or high-dose use may pose risks, primarily due to the potential for contamination with heavy metals such as lead. Common or uncommon side effects are not reported in the available literature. Rare side effects are also not documented. There are no known significant drug interactions. Contraindications include known hypersensitivity to lichens. Caution is advised with long-term use due to the contamination risk. It is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women due to a lack of safety data. Individuals should be aware of the potential for contamination and adhere to recommended dosage guidelines.
Dosage
Due to the limited clinical evidence, a minimum effective dose and optimal dosage ranges for Iceland moss have not been established. Traditional preparations vary widely. A maximum safe dose is also not established, but long-term or high-dose use should be avoided due to the potential for contamination. There are no specific timing recommendations. Iceland moss is typically used as a tea, extract, or lozenge, but there is no evidence to suggest that any particular form is superior. Absorption factors have not been studied, and no required cofactors have been identified. It is important to adhere to conservative dosage guidelines and be aware of the potential risks associated with contamination.
FAQs
Is Iceland moss safe for long-term use?
Long-term use is not recommended due to the potential for contamination with heavy metals. Short-term use is likely safe, but caution is advised.
What are the primary uses of Iceland moss?
Traditionally, it's used for digestive and respiratory ailments, such as coughs, colds, and throat irritation, but clinical evidence is limited.
How should I take Iceland moss?
It is typically consumed as a tea, extract, or lozenge. Follow product-specific instructions and avoid high doses.
Does Iceland moss have any proven benefits?
Preclinical studies suggest potential antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects, but clinical evidence in humans is limited.
Are there any risks associated with Iceland moss?
The primary risk is potential contamination with heavy metals, especially with long-term use. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid it.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9370490/ – This systematic review examines preclinical and clinical studies of Iceland moss, revealing antimicrobial, antioxidant, anticancer, and antidiabetic activities in vitro and in animal models. The review highlights the limited clinical evidence supporting its traditional uses and emphasizes the need for high-quality randomized controlled trials to validate these findings in humans. The study underscores the potential of Iceland moss while acknowledging the current lack of robust clinical data.
- https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-516/iceland-moss – WebMD's overview of Iceland moss indicates insufficient evidence for its efficacy in treating various conditions like cough, cold, bronchitis, and indigestion. It suggests that Iceland moss is possibly safe for short-term use. This summary highlights the absence of strong clinical evidence supporting the traditional uses of Iceland moss, advising caution and further research.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8232781/ – This review confirms the traditional uses of Iceland moss and its preclinical activities, but it does not present new clinical data. It serves as a background resource, detailing the historical applications and preliminary scientific findings associated with Iceland moss. The review emphasizes the need for further clinical trials to substantiate its efficacy.
- https://greatist.com/health/icelandic-moss – This article discusses the potential health benefits of Icelandic moss, including its use as a traditional remedy for coughs and colds. It also highlights the presence of polysaccharides and lichen acids, which may contribute to its therapeutic properties. However, it is important to note that the article does not provide specific scientific evidence or clinical trial data to support these claims.
- https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/psychological-medicine/article/systematic-review-and-metaanalysis-comparing-the-severity-of-core-symptoms-of-attentiondeficit-hyperactivity-disorder-in-females-and-males/ABEEC441FE17D58F52417EEED5191676 – This systematic review and meta-analysis compares the severity of core symptoms of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in females and males. It is not directly related to Iceland Moss, but it is included in the original research content. The study found that females with ADHD tend to exhibit more inattentive symptoms, while males show more hyperactive-impulsive symptoms.
