Monday, June 13, 2011

Life Saving Plants 1: Old Mans Beard

Old Mans Beard(or Usnea) is one of the plants that survivalists always make known right away to new learners in Canada. This lichen is not only normally easy to find and identify, but it is a must know for wilderness survival.

The first and most known part about this lichen is that it burns well. It only takes a little bit, and it will catch a flame to light your fire. That is a life saver in the survival world.

Next is that it is high in vitamin C. It is indeed edible, and while it might not taste the best, it could give you a much needed vitamin boost. It can be brewed as a tea.

Finally, there is the first-aid properties it holds. It has been used throughout history for hundreds of years. It was particularly used for surface wounds because of its antibacterial properties. Simply place it on a wound and it will work as bandage that will keep your injury from getting infected.


Image is from google at this link.

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