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Oak moss

Oak moss is the moss of a particular type of oak called Evernia prunastri. The moss is used to make medicine. Oak moss* is used for intestinal problems. In the field of industrial production, oakmoss is used as a fragrance in perfumes.

How does oakmoss work?

There is not enough information available to say how oakmoss might work as a medicine.

How effective is oakmoss?

There is not enough scientific data to make a statement about the effectiveness of oakmoss for intestinal problems. Further scientific research is needed to evaluate the effectiveness of oakmoss in this application.

Safety and side effects

Oakmoss may be safe and harmless for most people when used in the form of a water-based tea for short periods of time. When used in larger quantities, over a longer period of time, or as an alcoholic extract, oakmoss is not safe and harmless. Oakmoss contains a toxic chemical called thujone. This chemical can cause side effects such as restlessness, vomiting, dizziness, tremors, kidney damage and convulsions.

Precautions and warnings

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Oakmoss is not safe to use during pregnancy. Oakmoss contains the chemical thujone, which could cause contractions of the uterus, which can lead to miscarriage. Allergies to lichens and mosses: If you are allergic to lichens and mosses, then you could also be allergic to oakmoss. It is best to avoid oakmoss if you suffer from one of these allergies.

Porphyria: Oakmoss may aggravate this condition, so people suffering from porphyria should not use oakmoss.

Kidney problems: Oakmoss can aggravate kidney problems. People suffering from kidney problems should not use oakmoss.

Interactions

At this time, there is no information on interactions of oakmoss with medications or supplements.

Dosage

An appropriate dosage of oakmoss depends on various factors such as age, state of health and others. At this time, there is insufficient scientific data to make a statement about appropriate dosage ranges for oakmoss. For this reason, you should follow the dosage instructions on the label and/or consult a doctor or pharmacist before use.

References

  1. Dahlquist I, Fregert S. Contact allergy to atranorin in lichens and perfumes. Contact Dermatitis 1980;6:111-9.
  2. Goncalo S, Cabral F, Goncalo M. Contact sensitivity to oak moss. Contact Dermatitis 1988;19:355-7.
  3. Goncalo S. Contact sensitivity to lichens and compositae in Frullania dermatitis. Contact Dermatitis 1987;16:84-6.
  4. Thune P, Solberg Y, McFadden N, et al. Perfume allergy due to oak moss and other lichens. Contact Dermatitis 1982;8:396-400.