Iceland Moss (Cetraria islandica) is a lichen, not a true moss. It contains mucilage, which gives the herb a soothing, demulcent quality when brewed as a tea or made into an extract. This action coats and calms irritated mucous membranes, especially in the throat and digestive tract.
People use Iceland Moss to ease a dry, scratchy throat or to settle mild digestive discomfort. You can take it as a tea, liquid extract, or lozenge. Many turn to it during seasonal shifts or when temporary throat irritation flares up.
Modern research on the lichen is thin, so most of what we know comes from traditional use. Skip it if you are allergic to lichens. Pregnant or nursing women should check with a healthcare professional before taking it.