Tilia europea/T. cordata (Tiliaceae)

LIME FLOWER, LINDEN, TILLEUL

Lime flower tea is widely used in Europe as a relaxing drink. Herbalists also give it for fevers, colds, and flu. It is especially useful for children.

American scientists recently found that children with flu recovered more quickly and with fewer complications on Tilia tea than with antibiotics. This bears out the traditional use in Europe of using Tilia tisanes for colds and "fevers". It is, in fact, the most popular daily tisane in France, where its gentle relaxing properties are employed to help parents cope with irritable children. American linden, T. americana, has similar uses. Native to Europe, T. europea grows in woodland and is a common ornamental plant on footpaths and in parks. A tall, deciduous tree, it has a smooth bark, white wood, toothed heart-shaped leaves, and sweet-smelling flowers in spring.

PARTS USED

Flowers.

ACTIVE INGREDIENTS

Volatile oil containing farnesol; flavonoids, including hesperidin, quercetin, and astralagin; mucilage; tannins.

ACTIONS

Restores the nerves; reduces muscle tension and spasm; controls low blood pressure; induces sweating.

MEDICINAL USE

Given as a gentle relaxant to relieve anxiety and irritability, and nervous states that affect digestion, blood pressure and bowel function. It is also used for fevers, colds, and flu.

PREPARATIONS

Infusion, tincture.