Sphagnum moss and wound healing I

Abstract

Sphagnum mosses are widespread in temperate regions and provide the basis for most peat formation. They have upright stems bearing whorls of leafy branches. Due to the structure of its cells, sphagnum has a high capacity for fluid uptake and retention. It is this property that is chiefly responsible for its widespread medical exploitation over many centuries. The reported uses of sphagnum as a wound dressing for over 800 years are reviewed.