Respiratory

Iceland Moss: Benefits, Uses and How to Prepare It IMPORTANT: Iceland moss is generally well tolerated, but it is not free of precautions. It contains bitter lichen acids that, in large amounts or over very long courses, can irritate a sensitive stomach. People with gastritis, an active ulcer or excess stomach acid should use it only as a cold macerate (which extracts more soothing mucilage and fewer bitter acids) and with caution. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid prolonged use and consult a doctor first. Lichen harvested from polluted areas, near roads or factories can accumulate heavy metals, because lichens absorb everything in the air — use only material from clean, trustworthy sources. Iceland moss does not replace treatment for pneumonia, bacterial bronchitis or tuberculosis; if a cough lasts more than two to three weeks, or if you develop fever, blood in the phlegm or difficulty breathing, see a doctor. ...

Speedwell: Benefits, Uses and How to Prepare It IMPORTANT: Speedwell (Veronica officinalis) is regarded as a gentle plant in folk medicine, but it is not without precautions. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid it unless advised by a doctor, because its effects during pregnancy are not sufficiently studied. People with chronic liver or kidney conditions, those undergoing drug treatments (especially anticoagulants, antidiabetic medication, or blood-pressure medicine), and young children should not use speedwell without first speaking to a doctor or pharmacist. Speedwell does NOT replace prescribed treatment and is not a remedy for serious illness; a persistent cough, prolonged fever, blood in the sputum, or breathing difficulties require urgent medical attention. Use only correctly identified plants, gathered from clean, unpolluted areas, well away from roadsides. ...