Tiliaceae

Names: Lime Blossoms, Linden flowers, Tilia.

Habitat: Europe, including Britain.

Collection: The flowers should be gathered immediately after flowering in the midsummer. They should be collected on a dry day and dried carefully in the shade.

Part Used: Dried flowers.

Constituents:

• Volatile oil, up to about 0.l%, containing farnesol
• Flavonoids; hesperidin, quercitin, astralagin, tiliroside and others
• Miscellaneous; mucilage (in the bract), phenolic acids, tannins.

Indications: Linden is well known as a relaxing remedy for use in nervous tension. It has a reputation as a prophylactic against the development of arteriosclerosis and hypertension. It is considered to be a specific in the treatment of raised blood pressure associated with arteriosclerosis and nervous tension. Its relaxing action combined with a general effect upon the circulatory system give Linden a role in the treatment of some forms of migraine. The diaphoresis combined with the relaxation explain its value in feverish colds and flu.

King's Dispensatory recommends "Tilia europea for the relief of many nervous and catarrhal disorders. The infusion is preferred and may be given to allay irritation and restlessness, and to promote rest and sleep. The hot infusion is employed to check diarrhoea from cold, and in the various forms of colds and catarrhal conditions, while, either hot or cold, it may be used in restlessness, nervous headaches, painful and difficult digestion, and mild hysteria.

Combinations: In raised blood pressure it may be used with Hawthorn and European Mistletoe, with Hops in nervous tension and with Elder Flower in the common cold.

Preparations & Dosage: Infusion: pour a cup of boiling water onto l teaspoonful of the blossoms and leave to infuse for l0 minutes. This should be drunk three times a day. For a diaphoretic effect in fever, use 2-3 teaspoonfuls. Tincture: take l-2ml of the tincture three times a day.