Lichens are a type of edible fungus that
grows between rock or tree trunks in the Himalayan region and in the Western Ghats. Kalpasi
does not have a specific aroma in dried form but releases a soft sweet earthly aroma when
cooked in hot ghee or oil.
It is used in Chettinad, Awadhi, Marathi, and Hyderabadi cuisine. It adds the signature
black colour to Goda Masala of Maharashtra.
It helps dissolve Kidney Stones, prevent
urinary tract infections. It possesses anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial,
anti-fungal properties.
