Herb Article
Linden

By Elizabeth Willis

Common Name
Linden

Latin Name
Tilia europea

Family
Malvaceae family

The medical tradition of using Linden comes from its many uses in old domestic European medicine. This beautiful tree will be blooming all over Boulder in mid June, and offers its medicine from its blossoms, bracts and leaves. It is a gentle sedative, antispasmodic and is a particularly calming plant. Because of its relaxing nature it is helpful for times of duress, anxiety and nervousness, but can also be a soothing addition to a cold and flu tea to relax the body or an irritated cough. Linden is slightly moist, is effective for dispersing excess heat, and can also be used to break a fever. It is also helpful for reducing the irritation of viral breakouts.

Linden's affinity for the respiratory tract makes it an effective remedy for flu, fever, colds, coughs, excess or stuck mucus, along with supporting sleep! Last but not least Linden is also a healing topical remedy, for sunburn, boils or irritated inflamed tissues.

Linden can be used as a tea, tincture, poultice, wash, or used fresh.

Active Constituents
Vitamin-C, Iodine, Manganese, Flavonoids, Mucilage, Tannins, Volatile oils, Quercetin glycosides and Sterols (to name a few!)

Preparations

Summer's Eve Tea
1 part Spearmint
1 part Lemon balm
1/2 part Linden

Steep 15-45 minutes, strain & enjoy. Drink as a warm brew before bed or chill over night for a delicious iced tea for your next busy day.

Peaceful Moments Herbal Bath
1 large handful dried (or fresh) Linden
1 handful lavender blossoms
1/2 handful rose
1/2 handful chamomile

*Put all your loose herbs into a 1 qrt. canning jar, pour boiling water over, cover!! Steep 15-30min, run your bath. Strain into bath, or leave the flowers in if you like. Light candles & relax!