Linden Blossom

GREENIT! LINDEN BLOSSOM

Linden or lime blossom (Tiliae flos) is the collected inflorescence of trees belonging to the linden/lime genus (most often the small-leaved linden/lime, Tilia cordata), which is justifiably popular in folk medicine and phytotherapy.

Detailed characteristics:

• Appearance: The linden flower is small, yellowish-white, in a drooping umbel. The inflorescence is accompanied by a characteristic, elongated, light green bract, which is usually collected together with the flower. It has an intense, sweet, honey-like scent.
• Active ingredients: Flavonoids: tiliroside, quercetin and kaempferol glycosides (have antioxidant effects). Essential oils: geraniol, linalool, eugenol (they give the scent and the calming effect). Mucilages, which have a cough suppressant effect. Tannins and phenolic acids.
• Possible beneficial effects:
  • Colds and fever: Excellent diaphoretic, antipyretic, and also a cough suppressant and expectorant in case of catarrhal diseases.
  • Nerve relaxant: Reduces stress, anxiety, and helps you fall asleep, contributing to restful sleep.
  • Digestion: It is used to relieve stomach and intestinal cramps, and as a mild diuretic.
  • Immune booster: Thanks to its high antioxidant content, it strengthens the body’s defenses.
  • Possible applications:
  • • Tea (infusion): Pour 1-2 teaspoons of dried linden blossoms with 2.5 dl of hot water, then let it stand covered for 10 minutes. It can be consumed 3-4 cups a day.
    • Linden blossom honey: A delicious and medicinal honey.
    • Bath: It can be used to make a calming, relaxing bath water.
  • Cultivation and care:
    • Collection: It is collected during flowering, usually in June, when some of the flowers have already opened, but have not yet begun to open.
    • Drying: It is dried by spreading it out in a thin layer in a shady, well-ventilated place.