Linden Leaf and Flower Profile
Also known as
Tilia spp, (Species include Europaea, Americana, and Cordata)
Introduction
The Linden tree is found in both Europe and North America. Native Americans of the First Nation used linden flowers for treating 'sick headaches' and nervous stomach. European herbalists used linden flowers to make a pleasantly sweet tea that looks very attractive in a glass jug.
Constituents
About 1% antioxidant flavonoids including hyperoside, quercitrin, myricetin galactoside, kaempferol, kaempferol glycosides including astragalin and its 6-p-coumaric acid ester tiliroside), myricetin and quercetin glycosides. Linden flowers also contain approximately 10% mucilage largely comprised of arabino-galactans; proanthocyanidins; caffeic, chlorogenic and p-coumaric acids, eugenol, and geraniol.
Parts Used
Leaf and Flowers.
Typical Preparations
Mostly used as a Tea. Can be taken in both extract and capsule form.
Summary
Modern herbalists prescribe linden flowers for all the indications listed above, plus as a treatment for sore throats and colitis. The mucilages in the flowers coat mucous membranes to soothe inflammation and irritation.
Precautions
Don't drink linden flower teas within 2 hours of taking any vitamin and mineral supplement, since the mucilages in the tea can interfere with the absorption of nutrients from the supplement.
This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
