Ntp Nomination for Usnic Acid and Usnea Barbata

What is it? • Usnic acid is a complex polycyclic chemical compound produced naturally by certain lichens species. • Lichens containing usnic acid have been used as traditional medicines and crude drugs in other countries. • Usnic acid as a pure substance has been formulated in creams, toothpaste, mouthwash, deodorants and sunscreen products, either as an active principle or a preservative. FDA has not received any certification from industry on the safety or use of this substance in cosmetic products. • In recent years, usnic acid and its salt form, sodium usniate, have been marketed in the US as an ingredient in dietary supplement products (mostly with claims as weight-loss aides, though some as antimicrobial agents).