Linden

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Linden

 

(Tilia cordata)

 

 

The lindens, sometimes called lime tress, are of the family Tiliaciae, which comprises more then 700 species of trees and shrubs. The pale yellow linden flowers are used to make a tea that has long been accepted as a remedy for feverish colds. Linden can also ease tension and calm an anxious mind.

 

 

Plant Facts:

 

Linden can grow to a height of 100 feet and has blooms that have a spicy taste and sweet aroma. The bark on linden is brown to gray and becomes cracked and furrowed with age. The leaves- which were once added to tobacco-are dark green on top and gray-green underneath.

 

 

Parts Used:

 

The flowers of the linden tree are the part most commonly used for medicinal purposes, and they are almost exclusively imported from Asia. Linden leaves, bark and charcoal are also used in home remedies.

 

 

Components:

 

The flavone glycosides in linden are partially responsible for the herb’s valuable sweat-inducing effects, the essential oil of the flowers, containing terpenes, also encourages perspiration. In high levels of mucins help relieve irritation. Linden also contains tannins, which tighten tissues and promote immunity.

 

 

Indications:

 

Primarily because of its ability to induce sweating, linden-flower tea is used to prevent and treat feverish colds, stubborn coughs and flu like symptoms. Plus, it may relax intestinal and menstrual cramps and aid in strengthening the immune system. Traditional medicine has long relied on linden-flower tea as a gentle tonic for the heart and circulatory system. Finally, it is also suitable to give children.

 

 

Daily Ritual:

 

An infusion with linden flowers makes a refreshing toner for the skin. Apply sparingly to sooth and tighten the skin and to help alleviate mild skin irritations. Linden flowers can also be used in steam facials and hair rinses.

 

 

Methods of Administration

 

 

Tea for inducing sweat:

 

To ease a fever, drink the teas as hot as you can tolerate. Pour 1 cup of boiling water over 1 – 2 tsp. of fresh or dried linden glowers, steep for 10 – 15 minutes. Drink 1 cup up to 4 times daily. Sweeten with honey, if desired.

 

 

Calming Bath:

 

A linden bath will calm nerves, quiet anxiety and prepared you for restful sleep. Bring 3 ½ oz. of fresh or dried linden flowers to a boil in about 2 qt. water. Steep for at least 10 minutes, strain and add to your bathwater.

 

 

Poultice for wounds:

 

Pour ½ cup of water over 1 cup of dried or fresh linden flowers. Allow leaves to become saturated. Strain, but do not squeeze. Apply the saturated leaves directly on open or poorly healing wounds. Keep a cloth or towel beneath the affected areas to soak up extra moisture. Leave on for 20 – 30 minutes.