In the movie “Lost on a Mountain in Maine,” a young boy named Donn Fendler, played by Luke David Blumm, finds himself lost and hungry in the woods near Mount Katahdin. At one point, he picks something off a boulder to eat. This curious snack is known as rock tripe, part of the genus Umbilicaria.
People often refer to rock tripe as a survival food. I’ve thought about trying it myself, but I worry about potential stomach issues, so I’ve held back. When I brought up rock tripe while watching the movie, my friends didn’t seem interested. It’s funny how many overlook lichens; they’re not as appealing as plants or mushrooms.
Lichens might lack the allure of other wild edibles. Out of thousands of species, only a few are known for their psychedelic properties, and thankfully, none exist in Maine. Moreover, lichens grow very slowly, just a few millimeters a year, so overharvesting can quickly decimate local populations.
Many confuse lichens with moss, but they’re quite different. Mosses are actual plants, while lichens are unique partnerships between algae, bacteria, and fungi. This harmonious relationship is fascinating, yet few people study it deeply. I once joined a group of lichenologists in the woods, intrigued by their passion for small black dot-producing lichens. Their focus was admirable, even if it seemed a bit narrow.
I still remember tasting bitter wart lichen during that trip. It was such a strong taste that nothing has come close since, showing that some lichens carry surprising flavors.
Take lungwort, or Lobaria pulmonaria, for example. This lichen mimics lung tissue and has been historically linked to lung treatments. Its name, with the Old English suffix “wort,” adds a mystical quality, as if it has magical healing properties. Some people even call it the “lungs of the woods.”
Another interesting lichen is dogtooth lichen, which was once believed to help treat rabies. Then there’s Usnea, also known as old man’s beard. This lichen, often mistaken for Spanish moss, can be used for its antimicrobial benefits. Recently, I learned that a local logger and his wife collect usnea for homeopathic uses, emphasizing its practical value.
The forest surely has a magical feel, with its hidden medicines and vibrant life. Yet, I often find myself too busy thinking about timber or just passing through without stopping to appreciate these wonders. Occasionally, though, a lichen or unique structure catches my eye, reminding me of the vital roles these organisms play in the ecosystem.
Exploring lichens might seem whimsical, but their potential medicinal properties could open doors for research. Lichens continue to be an underappreciated part of our natural world, waiting for someone to recognize their significance.
