Reindeer moss

Cladonia rangiferina L.

Gray reindeer moss, renmossa, sphagnum

Lichens

Lichenes

The genus Cladonia is represented in Sweden by several species of lichen which is the most common and by far the most important. As all lichens are able lichen survive under the most difficult conditions - it can handle both extreme cold and dry for a long time. Nevertheless, it is very nutritious, it contains a large amount of starch - and it is the main winter food for Sami reindeer herds.

In the past they used to during the years of crop failure to collect lichen as winter feed for cattle also, and, like Iceland moss, Cetraria islandica, were used in the nödtider even for human consumption - they grind the dried lavender into a flour used for baking. In order to remove the bitter taste must, however, first soak the bench in pottaskelut one day. As late as the end of the 1800s was used reindeer moss on a large scale to the distilleries, including at some distilleries in Småland. Reindeer moss is also used and is still used to dye-it gives a light beige color. Medically, the reindeer moss been used in home remedies for Iuftrörskatarr and similar ailments.

Occurrence: Very general over almost the entire country in light pine forests on the lean surface. Can also occur on bogs and sand dunes.

Characteristics: Reindeer moss forming 5 -12 cm high tussocks. Small branches are often bent in the same direction and have a brown-violet hue. The main trunk is livid and is based on the so-called primary trunk, an insignificant skorpliknande formation, which will disappear soon. Propagation is mostly vegetative way through the pieces break off and grow into new individuals. Several similar species occur.

Using parts: The whole bench.

Content Topics: Lavsyrorna atranorin and Usnic acid. About 60% carbohydrates, with the main volume consists of lichenin. Umbilicin

Medical effects: expectorant. Usnic acid has respiratory stimulant and antibiotic activity.

Usage: Has previously been used in bronchitis. Nowadays the extraction of uric acid, used as sårpulver in infected wounds. Non-Medical to produce ethanol by fermentation. Nutritious food for reindeer.