Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Lichens have been used in traditional medicine systems for a variety of ailments, including eye infections. Ethnobotanical records from regions such as India, China, and some Native American groups indicate that unspecified lichens, or specific types such as Usnea spp. or Parmelia spp., have been used as poultices or washes for inflamed or infected eyes. The rationale for their use typically stems from the perceived cleansing, antimicrobial, or soothing properties of lichen preparations, as observed by traditional healers. However, the evidence for efficacy is anecdotal and largely unsubstantiated by controlled scientific studies. Only a handful of laboratory studies have examined the antimicrobial compounds in lichens, such as usnic acid, and while these show some antibacterial activity in vitro, there is no direct evidence that these effects translate to safe or effective treatment of eye infections in humans. Furthermore, the safety of applying lichen extracts to the eye has not been established, and some compounds found in lichens may be irritating or toxic. Therefore, while lichen use for eye infections exists in traditional practice, scientific validation is lacking, and the overall evidence supporting its use is weak.

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