Can lichen be harmful to humans?
Be careful, though, in what you use; a few people have been known to have allergic reactions to lichens, resulting in skin disorders. Letharia vulpina (wolf lichen), a toxic lichen that was also used for tea and dye. Here are some of the many benefits that lichen give to nature: They are a keystone species in many ecosystems. They serve as a food source and habitat for many animals such as deer, birds, and rodents. They provide nesting materials for birds.Be careful though, not all lichens are edible, and in fact, some can be poisonous. For example, the wolf lichen got its name because it was used in Europe to poison wolves. Of course, the broken glass mixed with the lichens might have had something to do with it.Lichens have long been investigated for biological activities; mainly antimicrobial but also antitumor, antiviral, allergenic, plant growth inhibitory, antiherbivore, and enzyme inhibitory (7), more recently, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities (8-10).
What foods should I avoid with lichen?
Spicy, acidic, and citrus foods and beverages can aggravate lichen planus. You may need to avoid eating foods made with chili peppers, curry, large amounts of ginger or garlic, or other spicy dishes. Tomato and tomato products may cause problems. Similar is the case with lemons, limes, oranges, and grapefruits. If you have lichen planus in your mouth: avoid salty, spicy and acidic foods, or alcohol, if they make your mouth sore.Lichen planus is a common disease that causes inflammation (swelling and irritation) on your skin or inside your mouth. On your skin, lichen planus causes a rash that is usually itchy. Inside your mouth, it may cause burning or soreness.