Lichen is traditionally considered an association of fungus and algae that has a thallus. Its "skeleton" is provided by the mushroom, and it also holds the algae with the help of special suction cups (compare with the "sea lichen"). An important property is the ability of these organisms to produce their own acids. The association may include 1 species of fungus and 2 species of algae or cyanobacteria. The oldest finds include samples found in China in marine fossils 550-640 million years ago. The first mentions are found in an illustrated book by Theophrastus of the 300s BC.
In botany, these organisms are not isolated into a separate taxonomic group... All species are named by the component of the fungus (for example, xanthoria).
By the nature of the thallus, lichens are distinguished:
- homogeneous on a cut (kolemma). This type includes crustose lichens;
- heterogeneous (cladonia, xanthoria). Representatives of this species are bushy forms. Such forms are often colored differently.
The variety of lichens is distinguished mainly by life forms.:
All members of this family have symbiotic associations with green algae(trebuxia), which is why they are considered very representative samples (about 50% of the varieties include this component).
There are representatives of bushy and leafy forms. Parmelia, within the same species, are found in different colors: white, gray, with the presence of green, yellow or brown shades. When cut, they can be homogeneous and heterogeneous. When applied to the thallus, potassium lye begins to turn yellow.
Due to the extremely high morphological diversity and complexity, many specimens are difficult to pinpoint to the species level.
The family is distributed in all climatic regions (from the tropics to the Arctic), species can grow on many types of substrate: on the trunks and branches of various tree species(living and dead), as well as on stones. Prefers places with good lighting. It is relatively easy to adapt to the polluted air of large cities.
The example of Parmelia shows that the classification of lichens by shape does not always correspond to the actual situation.
The genus received the name "cut grass" for its hemostatic properties. Red Army soldiers used parmelia powder to heal wounds during World War II. It was also used as a flour additive.
Problematic and useful reindeer lichen
It is often not clear which groups of lichens belong to the lichen. This name can mean the following types:
- representatives of the clans Cladonia and Tsetraria;
- bushy lichens;
- leafy lichens;
- scale lichens.
Many "popular sources" consider reindeer lichen and " reindeer moss By exact synonyms, but they are not. In these species, a foliose thallus first develops, which later turns into a bushy thallus. These are the exceptions to the rule.
Yagel in the service of history
Lichen crust helped to find out the age of the stone idols of Easter Island. Comparing photographs taken about 100 years ago with modern measurements helped to calculate the average growth of this plant over the year. Now, thanks to extreme species, scientists are refining data on the movements of glaciers, changes in their size.
Found under the layers volcanic ash Vesuvius fabrics in orange shades appear to have been treated with local xanthoria-based dyes.
It is known that the Vikings used reindeer lichen in baking, so the finds of its components may be evidence of their stay in remote places.
Application in medicine
Due to the high content of usnic acid, sometimes up to 10 percent of the mass, many have the properties of antibiotics, analgesics. According to some reports, this substance can slow down the development of tuberculosis. But remember, a large amount of acid is a contraindication, not a desired indicator, as there is a health hazard. For this reason, the bearded lichen and many types of lichen must be soaked in a solution of baking soda or for a longer time in clean running water. Derivatives of this acid are capable of killing many types of bacteria and inhibiting the multiplication of highly resistant bacteria that have developed resistance to commonly used antibiotics. The peoples of the north use the medicinal properties of "deer moss" in folk remedies.
Cetraria have found use in the production of drugs for diarrhea, viral and microbial colds, to stimulate hunger in case of gastrointestinal disorders.
Contraindications: preparations based on reindeer lichen are not recommended for pregnant and lactating women because of the individual sensitivity of young children and the tendency to allergies.
If you start using "natural preparations", do not forget to consult qualified specialists.
Use in the food industry
During civil war, in connection with a shortage of wheat flour, they found use for dried lichens stored in pharmacists' warehouses.
V Nordic countries lichen is used for feeding small and large cattle and pigs due to its high satiety, which is three times higher than that of potatoes. In Sweden, they still brew folk alcoholic drinks based on lichens.
Recently on Yamal was launched innovative project for making bread, spices and even confectionery... Promise that the following menu will appear fast food: croutons that don't require yeast, several types of sauces, buns and other goodies. We must not forget that due to the novelty of the products, contraindications have not yet been fully studied.
Determination of the ecological situation
With an increase in air pollution, bushy lichens first disappear, then foliated, and last - scale lichens (elegant xanthoria). Due to the change in the color of the xanthoria, the butterflies of the industrial territories also change their colors, usually to dark gray shades.
The closer the indicator organism is to the center of pollution, the thicker its body becomes. With increasing concentration, it takes up a smaller area and reduces the number of fruiting bodies. When the atmosphere is heavily polluted, the surface of most lichens becomes white, brown or purple. The worst pollutant for them is sulfur dioxide. If you suffer from diseases respiratory system, and found the above features of these organisms, you can take this as a contraindication to further living in such a place.
There is a lot of talk about the benefits and harms of antibiotics, but it is very interesting and important to know that reindeer lichen has a very strong natural antibiotic. Our ancestors used its properties for various medicinal needs.
YAGEL, ICELANDIC or REINDEER MOSS refers to lichens, which are special, complex organisms that are obtained by the joint union of simple unicellular green algae, nitrogen assimilating bacteria and marsupial fungi. In this cohabitation, mushrooms supply mineral salts and water, algae get starch synthesis, which allows lichens to exist in places where other organisms cannot. Therefore, lichens can grow in places with severe frost and vice versa in sultry deserts, they endure cold and frost. They grow on even metal and glass. However, they cannot tolerate heavy pollution, so it is difficult to find them near large and polluted cities. Lichens grow rather slowly, but they can have a very decent age, up to half a thousand years.
MEDICINAL PROPERTIES OF YAGEL
There are more than twenty thousand species of lichens. Yagel takes a special place among them in terms of practicality. There are cases when in the hungry years in Russia it was used to bake bread. To remove the bitter taste, it had to be soaked in a soda solution for 24 hours, rinsed well with water, dried and ground into flour.
Information about the medicinal and prophylactic properties of reindeer lichen is not widely spread. Certain types of plants and even moss lichen may be inferior, but in some ways it is very good. For example, as for the purification and circulation of blood, its normalization, the lichen is very useful. Thrombophlebitis and varicose veins are also treated with his help. With its help, you can activate the blood flow of the vascular system and lungs, improve breathing and heart function.
With the help of this moss, you can help your liver to establish the metabolic process in the body, improve the functions of the renal and urinary-reproductive systems. It can help with the resorption of thyroid nodules. There is a benefit from it in case of digestive disorders and atherosclerosis.
In the 19th and early 20th centuries, doctors of the old world were of the wide opinion that lichen works well against tuberculosis and whooping cough. Later, the enthusiasm for lichen passed and only a relatively recently forgotten lichen again interested scientists because chemists managed to isolate usnic acid from it - a powerful antibiotic that kills pathogens in negligible concentrations. Usnic acid preparations in alcohol or in an oil solution are used externally to treat purulent wounds and burns.
YAGEL RECIPES
You can prepare a decoction. To do this, pour two tablespoons of dried reindeer lichen with two glasses cold water... Bring to a boil, refrigerate and consume throughout the day. The next day, repeat the broth again. Use until clearly improved.
The second option uses thick jelly. It is necessary to pour 20-50 g of reindeer lichen over 750 g of boiling water, boil for about 30 minutes, drink the broth throughout the day.
The broth, when cooled, turns into a thick slimy jelly.
Strain if necessary. Take half a glass three or four times a day, half an hour before meals, or after meals after 1 hour. The treatment can vary depending on the severity of the disease - from 15 days to 6 months, with a break of about 2 weeks after a month of admission.
In the Far North of our country, mainly mosses or lichens grow. One of the varieties of such lichens is called reindeer moss or reindeer moss. Yagel is the name of a lichen in the language of the aborigines, the peoples of the Far North. Deer moss is Russian name lichen, because this type of lichen is traditionally eaten by deer or other animals living in the tundra.
Local peoples know very well what lichen looks like, because reindeer lichen is most best food for deer in an area where there is no grass or trees, only rare bushes, mosses or lichens. Yagel is a plant that possesses big amount useful properties. It is called "deer moss" because it is the main food source for large animals (whether domestic or wild) living in the tundra region.
In appearance, reindeer lichen is quite inconspicuous light gray lichen... Reindeer moss (or moss) is difficult to notice with the naked eye to an unprepared person. However, the locals know very well what this lichen looks like (or "moss", as this type of plant is often mistakenly called for its external resemblance to moss) and willingly collect it, because given view plants are of great practical value. This lichen is one of the most important plants in the Far North. Yagel is used in the following industries:
- reindeer husbandry;
- Breeding cattle;
- food industry;
- confectionery industry.
In appearance, reindeer lichen looks completely unpresentable. Deer moss is the most common creeper that can be easily found under your feet. However, reindeer lichen is very soft, and when man is walking in a clearing overgrown with this lichen (deer moss), it seems as if your feet are stepping on a large soft, fluffy carpet.
Deer moss is one of the main beauties and attractions of the harsh northern nature... Reindeer moss is a plant that is quite unpretentious and can perfectly exist in the harsh northern nature. Reindeer moss harvesting in the Far North is carried out on a large scale, since it the plant has invaluable benefit in the region, where, due to the harsh weather conditions, there are practically no trees and tall shrubs, no grass, and practically no vegetables and fruits are grown.
Yagel: application
The most active lichen used in food and confectionery industry as well as in reindeer husbandry and animal husbandry... Reindeer brigades and livestock collective farms of the Far North are massively harvesting this unique plant in order to provide food for their animals. Reindeer moss contains all vitamins, minerals and nutrients necessary for the intensive growth and development of animals. It is fed to animals for food as in fresh and dried. It is also part of many combined feeds produced in the Far North. Most often, reindeer moss is used to provide good nutrition such large and small livestock as:
- deer different breeds;
- cows of frost-resistant breeds, adapted to life in the Far North;
- goats of special breeds, specially bred for living in the tundra;
- horses.
Also, locals widely use reindeer lichen v folk medicine ... Reindeer moss is used both externally (as compresses, lotions) and internally (decoctions, infusions). Also, on the basis of reindeer lichen, various vitamin supplements designed to stimulate the growth and development of animals in harsh weather conditions.
In addition, reindeer lichen, like many lichens, mosses and algae, contains special substances that make it irreplaceable in Food Industry... In the Far North, reindeer lichen is widely used in the confectionery industry. So, deer moss is used in the industrial production of sweets such as:
- candies;
- biscuits;
- marmalade;
- marshmallow and marshmallow.
Yagel, the practical benefits of which have long been known to local residents living in the poor vegetation of the tundra, is one of the most valuable plants in this region. Deer have long been considered the main animal of the tundra, which is why reindeer have received the honorary name "deer moss". After all, this humble lichen is rightfully considered the main source of nutrients for such beautiful, strong and graceful animals as reindeer. The deer is, without a doubt, a symbol of the harsh Far North, the main animal that is traditionally used in the economy of local peoples in the most different purposes... The locals give the reindeer nutrition a very great importance and sometimes they prefer to starve themselves, but feed the deer.
Yagel is the best food for deer
In the conditions of the Far North, the deer is, perhaps, the most hardy and strong animal, the most adapted for living in conditions permafrost, the complete absence of green plants, the long polar night, which lasts for six months. Locals use deer for a variety of purposes. Most often, deer bring the following practical benefits:
- they ride reindeer in winter where there are practically no roads and there is no way to get around by car, and public transport does not function at all;
- deer meat has a large nutritional value and calorie content, gives people energy, helps to warm up and survive in the harsh climatic conditions of the tundra. Locals eat the meat of their favorite animals even raw;
- deer fat is a valuable animal fat, widely used in food preparation and food industry;
- there are various breeds of deer, which are specially bred for crossing and breeding new breeds.
Yagel is one of the main sources of vitamins and minerals necessary for the intensive growth and development of deer and small deer in the harsh weather and climatic conditions of the Far North. In a land where the polar night lasts for half a year, where people and animals do not see the sun for half a year, in a land where it is very difficult to find fresh greens, vegetables and fruits, lichen as the main source of vitamins for deer is invaluable. Yagel is actively used in livestock feeding because it has the following properties:
- contains useful vitamins and minerals necessary for the intensive growth and development of adult deer and young animals;
- increases the immunity of animals and enhances the resistance of the body of cattle to various infectious diseases that are common among animals in the harsh climate of the tundra;
- lichen has a high nutritional value and calorie content, helps animals not to freeze in cold polar nights;
- Reindeer moss contains a large amount of carbohydrates, which means that reindeer moss provides animals with the energy necessary for active movement on the tundra.
Reindeer harvesting in reindeer and livestock farms of the Far North (both state and private) is massive, since in conditions of constant shortage of nutritious green forage, reindeer moss is one of the main types of food for reindeer.
This valuable plant often appears in many legends, tales and legends of the peoples of the tundra and forest-tundra, because this plant helps to survive the most important animal of the tundra - the deer.
You can see reindeer lichen in a photograph or in specialized literature on the main types of mosses and lichens. Surprisingly, this seemingly inconspicuous creeping plant is real a storehouse of nutrients for such large and massive animals as reindeer. However, in the conditions Russian center, the Russian south and other regions, the cultivation and industrial use of reindeer moss is irrelevant, since in these regions a large number of other plant species grow that can be used as food for cattle.
There is in the world great amount various mosses and lichens, but reindeer lichen is the most popular in the Far North. This is mainly due to its unpretentiousness and ability to easily withstand severe frosts and long polar nights. This lichen can rightfully be called one of the symbols of the fauna and flora of the Far North, along with deer, northern lights and sled dogs.
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Yagel (aka deer / Icelandic moss) belongs to lichens and is an important part of the diet reindeer... In folk medicine, it is mainly used as a natural antibiotic. It has a slightly bitter taste and a pleasant mushroom aroma. Applies entirely. Used as in official medicine(as a component of pharmaceuticals) and folk.
Description of lichen
It is about lichen - the result of joint "creations" of marsupial mushrooms, unicellular algae and microorganisms capable of assimilating nitrogen. It grows in decks, reaching a height of 5-10 cm. Outside, its "leaves" are lilac-greenish-brown, from the inside - lighter, with a red tint.
Does reindeer lichen have fruit? The fruits are used for the propagation of the plant. Since lichens are fungi, they multiply by spores. Consequently, their fruits are represented precisely by disputes.
Lichens are long-lived plants that can survive for thousands of years! The places where lichen grows are varied. It can grow on all surfaces, incl. on glass and metal. Thanks to the provision of salts and minerals () and the synthesis of starch (algae), it is able to grow where even minimum conditions for the life of other plants ( very coldy, drought ...).
Collection and drying
In order to take advantage of the medicinal properties of reindeer moss, it is important to know how to prepare it. Yagel is harvested in dry weather when it is dry itself. After collection, it is thoroughly cleaned of clay and other impurities (in particular, it is necessary to remove other types of lichens and mosses from it). spreads in a thin layer under the sun and dries quickly. It turns brown after drying.
It is also called natural penicillin and is effective against many harmful bacteria and viruses. It is capable of inhibiting (although, unfortunately, not stopping) the HIV virus and eliminating the Helicobacter pylori bacterium.
Yagel can be used alone or in mixtures with other herbs (mallow, medicinal, calendula) to enhance its antibacterial and antiviral properties.
Composition
The composition of reindeer lichen is represented by the following substances:
- 50% - membrane mucus - lichenin polysaccharide, which dissolves in hot water;
- isolichin is a polysaccharide, its chemical structure similar to starch;
- lykenic acids;
- pectins;
- vitamins A and B1.
Because of their antibiotic effects, lykenic acids are used as components of antibiotic ointments and powders.
Active substances and their effects on health
For what the lichen is useful, the substances contained in it are responsible. In addition to antimicrobial and antiviral effects, they have a number of other positive qualities in relation to the health of the human body.
- Mucous substances - dissolve mucus, facilitate coughing and prevent drying out of mucous membranes, help in the treatment of upper infections respiratory tract... The medicinal properties of moss (lichen) in relation to the respiratory tract are also due to its antibacterial and antiviral effects.
- Protolichesteric acid - works against Mycobacterium aurum, a non-pathogenic bacterium similar to M. tuberculosis, the causative agent of tuberculosis. Therefore, the traditional use of reindeer lichen for the treatment of this disease is justified. The substance also counteracts other pathogenic bacteria. In the course of the studies, the comparative efficacy of protolichesteric acid with the antibiotic streptomycin was shown, and due to the increased resistance of bacteria to the antibiotics used, further studies are in the future.
- Polysaccharides (mainly β-glucans) - have a strong immunostimulating effect, increase the activity of phagocytes and reduce anti-complex activity immune system which is useful for treating various infections. Thanks to polysaccharides, lichen extract has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
- Protolineric acid - specialists are interested in its antitumor effect, which has been tested against different types tumor cells, in particular, breast carcinoma and leukemia cells.
Therapeutic properties
Healing properties of reindeer lichen and its therapeutic effects:
- antioxidant;
- antibiotic;
- anti-inflammatory;
- antibacterial;
- antiviral;
- tonic;
- immunostimulating.
- inflammation of the mouth, throat and digestive tract;
- gastroenteritis;
- diarrhea;
- catarrh of the stomach and intestines;
- the appearance of neoplasms;
- thyroid disorders;
- asthma;
- bronchitis;
- poorly healing wounds.
Useful properties of the plant for women
The benefits of reindeer lichen for women are represented, first of all, by the ability to treat breast carcinoma. The natural medicine is suitable for use in the climacteric period, which is critical for every woman. It relieves unpleasant symptoms, normalizes general well-being and hormonal background.
Benefits for Men
Exclusively "male" positive effects are absent in reindeer lichen, but its anticancer effects are worth attention, since more and more doctors register prostate carcinomas in men. Moreover, the disease is significantly "younger". No less important for men is the general strengthening of the body, which increases strength and endurance.
Yagel for Children
Beneficial features reindeer moss (reindeer moss) can also be used by children. But, it is not recommended for children under 6-7 years old. The dosage is 1/2 adult dose. The effects on the child's body are similar to those on adults.
During pregnancy and lactation
Reindeer moss - lichen - and his medicinal properties can be successfully used during pregnancy and lactation. This is one of the few natural remedies that is uniquely recommended for pregnant and lactating women!
Lichen will help get rid of respiratory and other diseases without side effects, unlike most pharmaceuticals, relatively or categorically prohibited during these periods.
Respiratory tract diseases
As mentioned above, reindeer lichen belongs to the best natural antibiotics. In folk medicine, it is used primarily to treat inflammation in oral cavity and throat.
Due to the ability to liquefy and remove mucus, it is good remedy for the treatment of colds, dry and irritable coughs, various respiratory infections and inflammation of the nasopharynx.
Reindeer moss soothes irritated mucous membranes in the mouth, therefore it is recommended as an adjunct to the treatment of bronchitis and asthma. Used as a tea or as a component of tea mixtures (goes well with mallow, plantain, coltsfoot, etc.).
Cure for respiratory diseases
You need:
- 4 tablespoons crushed raw materials;
- 3 tbsp. water;
- enameled dishes.
Boil water in an enamel bowl and add raw materials to boiling water. Cook for 10 minutes. After cooling, strain. Drink 1 glass 3 times a day. The duration of the therapeutic course depends on the severity of the disease (it is better to consult a doctor).
Gastrointestinal tract
Deer moss can be successfully used to treat gastrointestinal diseases. The broth prepared according to the above recipe soothes the stomach, helps with gastritis with any acidity, catarrh of the stomach and intestines, diarrhea.
Bitter acids stimulate activity digestive system, thanks to which the lichen is a good helper in case of lack of appetite.
The bitter taste promotes the formation of digestive juices and enhances the activity of peristalsis. It improves the absorption of nutrients and improves metabolism.
Reception and dosage of the decoction is the same as in the previous case. The therapeutic course continues until the problems are eliminated.
Diabetes
Folk recipes from reindeer moss include a decoction to stabilize glycemia. To compensate for diabetes, it is prepared as follows: 2 tbsp. pour 1/2 liter of raw materials and bring to a boil. After cooling down, drink throughout the day. Carry out the treatment in courses - 1 week of admission -> 1 week break.
Oncology
TO healing properties reindeer lichen belongs to. Protolineric acid is responsible for the anti-cancer effects. It leaches both into boiling water and into alcohol, therefore, in case of oncology, both infusion and alcohol tincture from lichen can be used.
Herbal infusion for cancer
You need:
- 2 parts each - reindeer moss, knotweed, St. John's wort;
- 3 parts each - nettle, plantain,;
- 100 g quality green tea (antioxidant).
4 tablespoons pour 1 liter of boiling water over the mixture. Leave it on for 1 hour. Total amount Divide into 4 servings throughout the day. The duration of the therapeutic course is individual, based on the rate of improvement in the condition.
Alcohol tincture from cancer
3 tbsp fill with 300 ml of alcohol (40%). Insist for a week. Take 1 tbsp. three times a day. The duration of treatment is individual.
Bacterial infections
Tincture prepared according to the above recipe is suitable for treatment bacterial infections, in particular, staphylococcus. Reception and dosage are the same.
Immunity and the thyroid gland
What else does a natural antibiotic treat? It can be used to enhance immunity and general strengthening of the body, with weakness and exhaustion of the body. Due to the high iodine content, lichen has a positive effect on the function of the thyroid gland.
Infusion for immunity and thyroid gland
1 tsp Pour raw materials with a glass of chilled boiled water. Leave it on for 8 hours. Drink the infusion 3-5 times a day or add to tea made from other herbs.
Contraindications and side effects
Does reindeer lichen, in addition to medicinal properties, also have contraindications? Can he do harm? If the recommended dose and recommendations on how to brew / infuse lichen correctly, the natural medicine has no side effects.
If the amount of raw materials is exceeded, its intake can cause irritation of the stomach and esophagus, nausea, diarrhea and dizziness. Individual intolerance is a relative contraindication, but it is very rare.
Moss moss belongs to the group of lichens that grow well in both warm and cold climates, but ideal place the tundra still remains.
With its high resistance to severe frosts, the plant is indispensable in the diet of many animals. This plant grows in natural conditions very slowly, only 2 mm per year, the full length of a mature plant is no more than 15 cm, so it takes about 20 years to fully restore pastures. On appearance lichen is a branched tubular twisting growth, which is very soft and pleasant to the touch. However, when dried, it is very fragile and crumbles easily. The wind carries its spores over a considerable distance, thus allowing it to reproduce.
This plant is known worldwide under the name "deer moss", because it is the main food for these northern animals and no vertebrate animal uses it for food anymore, due to its specific taste and smell. Deer feed on this type of moss, not because of the complex climatic conditions there is simply nothing else to eat in this area, but because this food is by nature intended specifically for them.
Let's take a look at the benefits of moss for deer:
A unique sorbing agent - removes harmful pathogenic microorganisms in negligible concentrations;
High-energy property - eating a small amount of moss, the deer quickly gorge themselves, and can remain full for a long time, due to the slow digestion and long-term assimilation of this plant;
The presence of polysaccharides - these substances give the deer vital energy and the reserve of strength, decomposing into simpler saccharides, does not allow the animal to freeze in the harsh cold.
This type of moss is widely used in the medicine of the northern inhabitants, who eat moss, as a medicine, and as an excellent preservative. And the high hygroscopicity of moss allows it to be used for domestic purposes.
How deer get food. The deer is a herd animal, so the search for food also takes place collectively. Endowed with gorgeous horns and amazing intelligence these animals clear a layer of snow, under which the "deer gourmet" rests peacefully. In the winter period (which is about nine months of continuous cold weather), the search for food for deer becomes the main occupation of life. Being in a well-fed state, the deer are well aware that before the next feeling of hunger appears, it is necessary to find another portion of food. Interesting fact When the deer shed their antlers, the females, clearing the snow in search of reindeer lichen, drive away the “bald” applicants with their antlers, show their superiority. However, this inequality does not last long, because antlers grow back very quickly, thanks to the constant use of reindeer lichen.
Zoo animals need moss. You cannot argue with nature, it is very difficult to find an analogue for this product. Therefore, for a more comfortable keeping of deer and similar northern animals in zoos in Moscow and the region, it is necessary to buy this type of moss, which has a beneficial effect on the viability of northern guests.
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