Tom's of Maine - About Our Products

Lichen is a unique life form which is the result of a symbiotic relationship between a fungus and an algae. There are as many as 16,000 species of lichen and they take on a wide array of forms: some resemble mushrooms, others grow as scales on trees, others grow on rocks, and still others grow in strings.

Lichen has a long history of folk use. Different species have been valued by different peoples as food, perfumes, dyes, and folk medicine.

We use Usnea barbata, commonly called Old Man's Beard or Alpine Tree Lichen in our Unscented and Honeysuckle Rose deodorants. This lichen grows in oak and pine trees in Hungary, Bulgaria, North Africa, and China. It is hand harvested and is typically about 4 inches (10 cm) long at maturity.

What does it do?

Lichen is included in our deodorant as a botanical ingredient which many people find helps to control odor. Lichens are thought to have natural antimicrobial and antibiotic properties. Such properties are fully consistent with an effective odor control agent.

What are the risks?

Usnea barbata has no known toxicity or carcinogenicity. Although our botanical ingredients are pure and natural, that is no guarantee against the potential for allergic reaction. Virtually any botanical ingredient has the potential to be a natural allergen or irritant to a particular set of individuals. As with any product, be sure to discontinue use if you experience a rash or other signs that the product may not be appropriate for your individual body chemistry.

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