Linden
(Tilia SPP. T cordota)
Also called: Lime tree or European Lime, European linden, European lime tree. In France, linden is known as tilleul and is one of the most popular of after-dinner tisanes.
Description: European linden is a deciduous tree which grows to a height of 100 feet. It is found in the forests and on the mountain slopes of Europe and is commonly planted along streets there. Linden leaves are cordate, serrate, and somewhat unsymmetrical; the underside may be glabrous or hairy and is bluish-green in colour. Greenish-yellow or yellow-brown flowers grow in erect cymes during June and July.
Parts used: Flowers, inner bark.
Source: Throughout northern temperate regions.
Properties and Uses: Flowers: Anti-spasmodic, diaphoretic,
diuretic, hypotensive, sedative; Bark:
Cholagogue, emollient.
It is not to be used for long periods or heart damage may result.
An infusion of fresh linden flowers is used mainly for
nervous tension, headaches, feverish colds, sore throats and influenza.
Also for mild bladder and kidney problems;
The
infusion can also be used as a mouthwash and gargle.
The flowers combine well with lemon balm for nervous tension and anxiety
or can be mixed with hawthorn flowers for high blood pressure.
Because it is both a calming and hypotensive herb, lime flowers are ideal
for those suffering from high blood pressure which is related to stress.
It
can also be suitable for digestive upsets associated with nervous tension.
For external use, beat the inner bark until its mucilaginous content can
be squeezed out and apply this to wounds, sores, and skin problems and blemishes.
In the past, the charcoal from linden wood was sometimes used externally for
wounds and internally for halitosis, spasmodic cough, night sweats, and fever.
The leaves were once made into ointments for swellings or sores and used in
mouthwashes for minor gum infections.
Forms available: Teas, tincture.
Preparation and Dosage:
Infusion: Steep 1 tsp. fresh flowers in 1/2 cup water for 10 minutes. Take
11/2 cups a day.
Tincture: Take 15 to 40 drops, as indicated.
Caution: Over use of linden-flower tea may cause heart damage.
If you have heart problems, consult your doctor before using this herb.
