Cetraria islandica

Other names: Icelandic lichen, Icelandic moss, lung lichen, lungwort, clog, tree moss, pitted moss, bryophyte

The Iceland Puccini or Cetraria islandica is a species of lichen commonly found in Iceland, but can also be found in other cold or mountainous regions around the world. Other common names include Iceland lichen, Iceland moss, lung lichen, lungwort, clogging moss, tree moss, pit viper or bryophyte. This lichen is very hardy and can survive in extreme conditions, even in absolute darkness, which is one of the reasons why scientists often study it.

Iceland Puccini has been used for its unique properties in traditional medicine, where it was believed to cure various lung diseases, which is where some of its names come from. Today, this lichen is still used today due to its high nutritional value. In Iceland, for example, it is used to make traditional bread or 'laufabrauð'. It is also used to make various food products such as soda, ice cream, chocolate and chewing gum. In addition to food, the Icelandic puklera is also used in the cosmetics industry for the production of soaps, creams and other products. The use of the plant in the textile industry is also very interesting, as it is used to dye fabrics and wool. Last but not least, the Iceland piper is used in the pharmaceutical industry for the production of medicines and food supplements.