Iceland moss is a lichen. Lichens consist of algae and fungus growing together in a mutually helpful relationship. Lichens draw their nutrients from the environment and are easily contaminated. They grow well in Iceland because it is one of the least polluted countries in the world. Slightly bitter-tasting, it contains about 70 percent lichenin, a lichen starch, and an extractable brown dye. Iceland moss or Iceland lichen is an edible moss used as a food supplement, and for making soaps and cold creams. Icelandic Moss tea is made by pouring 1 cup of boiling water over 1–2 tsp of powdered Iceland Moss. The mixture is covered and steeped for 10–15 minutes. Natural sweetener can be added to the tea.
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