Iceland Moss - Uses and Side Effects

The mucilage components found in Iceland moss, lichenin and isolichenin, may have soothing effects on the oral and pharyngeal membranes. The bitter organic components may stimulate the appetite and promote gastric secretion. Iceland moss is available as dried whole plant of Cetraria islandica and as powdered herb extracts.

Reported uses

Iceland moss is used to soothe oral and pharyngeal membranes, relieve dry cough, stimulate appetite, and prevent infection, the common cold, dyspeptic complaints, and fevers. The alcohol containing extract is used as a flavoring agent in alcoholic beverages.

Administration

Tea: Simmer 1.5 to 3 g dried plant in 5 oz of boiling water, and then strain

Extract: 4 to 6 g every day.

Hazards

Iceland moss may cause GI irritation. Using Iceland moss with aspirin or NSAIDS may exacerbate irritation of the gastric mucosa by these medicines. The fiber in Iceland moss can impair the absorption of oral drugs. Instruct patient to separate administration times by at least 2 hours.

Patients with gastroduodenal ulcers or Gl distress or disease should avoid using Iceland moss because of the potential for mucosal irritation. Pregnant and breast-feeding patients should also avoid use because of potential lead contamination. Iceland moss shouldn't be used in treating children.

Safety Risk Because of potential lead contamination, the maximum daily dose of Iceland moss is 4 to 6 g.

Clinical considerations

Warn patient not to treat symptoms of respiratory infection before seeking appropriate medical evaluation because doing so may delay diagnosis of a potentially serious medical condition.

Tell patient to only take recommended doses of Iceland moss and to discontinue if any GI distress occurs.

Advise patient to take Iceland moss at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after any other drugs.

Inform patient that taking Iceland moss with food may help prevent GI upset.

Advise patient not to delay treatment of an illness that doesn't respond after taking Iceland moss.

Advise patient to keep Iceland moss away from children and pets.

Tell patient to notify pharmacist of any herbal or dietary supplement that he is taking when obtaining a new prescription.

Advise patient to consult his health care provider before using an herbal preparation because a conventional treatment with proven efficacy may be available.

Research summary

The concepts behind the use of Iceland moss and the claims made regarding its effects haven't yet been validated scientifically.

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