Linden
Latin: Tilia
Family: Tiliaceae
Family: Tiliaceae
Linden opens the emotional and spiritual heart even as it improves cardiovascular circulation… linden has a divinely inspired way of opening you to the bliss of your true multidimensional nature – the larger reality we’re all part of.
(Robin Rose Bennett, The Gift Of Healing Herbs)
(Robin Rose Bennett, The Gift Of Healing Herbs)
As a gentle yet effective nervine, Linden is equally beneficial to the very young, very old and feeble, those on medication, and everyone in between. Tilia is specific for nervous tension held in the heart. Linden’s action in both the cardiovascular and nervous system illustrate how the body doesn’t ever operate in isolated systems. As a vasodilator and relaxant to heart musculature, Linden gives an oxygenated sense of relief, easing the mind and calming the heart at the same time. This complementary set of actions is why Linden is known as a prophylactic for arteriosclerosis and hypertension. (Sharol Tilgner, Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth)
The sweet scent and delicious taste of Linden alone is enough to make anyone fall in love with this tasty tree... not to mention its long list of healing properties.
The genus Tilia includes 30 species with varying degrees of medicine. The most popular Tilia species, T. cordata or Littleaf Linden, lights up European streets with its lovely aroma. It has been used for centuries as a nervine; in fact, the oldest Tilia cordata is 2000 years old, residing in Gloucestershire, England and is still producing medicine today (Kleiman & Cavanaugh, 2018). Tilia americana, American Linden or Basswood, is native to the eastern United States. Basswood is a bit less medicinal than its European relative, although it is still an effective remedy for an overburdened nervous system.
Linden can grow over 130 feet and is resilient to environmental pollutants and temperature extremes. Linden’s solid, steady and strong nature indicate its ability to strengthen, protect, and help its users rise above the struggles of life.
As a gentle yet effective nervine, Linden is equally beneficial to the very young, very old and feeble, those on medication, and everyone in between. Tilia is specific for nervous tension held in the heart. Linden’s action in both the cardiovascular and nervous system illustrate how the body doesn’t ever operate in isolated systems. As a vasodilator and relaxant to heart musculature, Linden gives an oxygenated sense of relief, easing the mind and calming the heart at the same time. This complementary set of actions is why Linden is known as a prophylactic for arteriosclerosis and hypertension (Tilgner, 1999).
(www.herbgirlsathens.com/blog/linden-materia-medica)
The genus Tilia includes 30 species with varying degrees of medicine. The most popular Tilia species, T. cordata or Littleaf Linden, lights up European streets with its lovely aroma. It has been used for centuries as a nervine; in fact, the oldest Tilia cordata is 2000 years old, residing in Gloucestershire, England and is still producing medicine today (Kleiman & Cavanaugh, 2018). Tilia americana, American Linden or Basswood, is native to the eastern United States. Basswood is a bit less medicinal than its European relative, although it is still an effective remedy for an overburdened nervous system.
Linden can grow over 130 feet and is resilient to environmental pollutants and temperature extremes. Linden’s solid, steady and strong nature indicate its ability to strengthen, protect, and help its users rise above the struggles of life.
As a gentle yet effective nervine, Linden is equally beneficial to the very young, very old and feeble, those on medication, and everyone in between. Tilia is specific for nervous tension held in the heart. Linden’s action in both the cardiovascular and nervous system illustrate how the body doesn’t ever operate in isolated systems. As a vasodilator and relaxant to heart musculature, Linden gives an oxygenated sense of relief, easing the mind and calming the heart at the same time. This complementary set of actions is why Linden is known as a prophylactic for arteriosclerosis and hypertension (Tilgner, 1999).
(www.herbgirlsathens.com/blog/linden-materia-medica)
Properties & Actions
Nervine, Antispasmodic, Hypotensive, Diaphoretic, Diuretic, Anti-inflammatory, Astringent, Anti-inflammatory, Antidepressant, Anxiolytic, Cardiotonic, Demulcent, Vasodilator
Uses & Indications
Linden is a relaxing European remedy for use in nervous tension. It is a valuable cardiotonic with a reputation for preventing the development of arteriosclerosis and hypertension. It is considered a specific for high blood pressure associated with arteriosclerosis and nervous tension. Its relaxing action, combined with a general tonic effect upon the circulatory system, gives linden a role in the treatment of some types of migraine. Its blend of diaphoretic and relaxant actions explains its value for feverish colds and flu. (David Hoffman, Medical Herbalism)
Linden has been found to shorten the duration of infectious viral conditions. It is a relaxing remedy for nervous tension and prophylactic against the development of arteriosclerosis and hypertension. Research has shown Linden to protect against stress induced ulcers and act as a an anti-stress remedy. It's specifically decreases adrenal enlargement and possesses corticosteroid sparing effects under stressful conditions. Linden is useful for hypertension and palpitations due to stress. (Sharol Tilgner, Herbal Medicine From The Heart Of The Earth)
Parts Used
Leaves and Flowers
Qualities
Slightly sweet, aromatic, slightly astringent, pleasant smelling and tasting
Linden infusion is highly regarded for its refreshing and light flavor and scent. Cold infusion method is preferred, although hot may be of benefit as evening tea.
From the Apothecary
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