Hypogymnia physodes

Hypogymnia physodes
File:Hypogymnia physodes.jpeg
Conservation status
Secure Secure  (NatureServe)
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Kingdom:	Fungi
Division:	Ascomycota
Class:	Lecanoromycetes
Order:	Lecanorales
Family:	Parmeliaceae
Genus:	Hypogymnia
Species:	H. physodes
Binomial name
Hypogymnia physodes (L.) Nyl. (1896)
Synonyms
Lichen physodes L. (1753)

Hypogymnia physodes, commonly known as the monk's-hood lichen, is a species of foliose lichen in the family Parmeliaceae. It is a common and widespread species in boreal and temperate forests of the Northern Hemisphere. It has a grey to yellowish-green thallus that is loosely attached to its substrate and forms large irregular patches. Hollow lobes are 2–3mm wide. The outer edge turns up and is frequently covered with white powdery soredia underneath. Its lower surface is black, wrinkled and has some browning toward the lobe margins. The pycnidia are black and abundant, and their presence creates a pepper-like effect across the upper surface. Because of its abundance and its moderate sensitivity to sulphur dioxide and heavy metals, Hypogymnia physodes is often used in bioindicator and biomonitoring studies that enable the assessment of air pollution and other environmental conditions.

H. physodes extract

H. physodes extract is recognised as having great pharmacological potential. Its major component is physodic acid which is able to cross the blood-brain barrier.