Photo: Jean-Pol GRANDMONT · CC BY 2.5 · Source
Linden
Tilia platyphyllos
Family: Tiliaceae | Parts Used: Flowers
Linden is a gentle, calming herb with a sweet floral flavor and cooling nature. The flowers have been used in Western herbalism for fevers, colds, headaches, and hypertension, and are well regarded for their calming effect on the nervous system. The flavonoid hesperidin contributes to its hypotensive action, while mucilage and tannins help soothe irritated tissues. I make an infusion of linden weekly for joint support.
Traditional Uses
- Colds and flu
- Fevers (diaphoretic action to support the body's heat response)
- Headaches
- Hypertension and cardiovascular support
- Joint pain and traditional anti-inflammatory use
- Promoting deep relaxation and emotional balance
Properties
Key Constituents
Preparations & Dosage
- Tincture: 10-30 drops up to 3 times daily.
- Infusion: 1 tsp dried flower in 1 cup boiling water; up to 2-3 cups daily.
TCM Profile: Cool.
Bonnie's Notes
I make a linden infusion about once a week, primarily for joint pain. It's one of those herbs that works quietly and consistently. The flavor is pleasant enough that it doesn't feel like medicine.
Cautions
- Check with your doctor before using linden if you have heart disease.
Habitat & Growing Conditions
Native from Canada through the southern United States; grows in zones 3-8. Prefers full sun to partial shade in well-drained, moist, fertile soil.
Related Articles
Sources & Research
The Way of Herbs, Michael Tierra, p. 185
Published Research:
Novel Piperidine and 3,4-dihydro-2H-pyrrole Alkaloids from Tilia platyphyllos and Tilia cordata Flowers | Planta Medica (2021)
Hepatoprotective and antioxidant activity of linden (Tilia platyphyllos L.) infusion against ethanol-induced oxidative stress | The Journal of Membrane Biology (2014)
Toxicological and anti-tumor effects of a linden extract (Tilia platyphyllos Scop.) in a HPV16-transgenic mouse model | Food & Function (2021)
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. If you are under the care of a health care provider or taking prescription medication, check with your provider before using any herbal supplement.