Tilia (Linden Tree)
The Winter Linden and Summer Linden, known as Tilia cordata and Tilia platyphyllos, respectively, are trees with wood ideal for carving. Their canopy brings people together for celebrations, dancing and conversations. The name "Linden" reflects their gentle and flexible nature, as well as their soothing healing properties.
Botany
The Winter Linden, native to Central Europe, is distinguished by its smooth leaves on both sides. In contrast, the Summer Linden extends its range to Scandinavia and the Mediterranean region, with white undersides on its leaves. The Tilia genus encompasses various species that often interbreed. These trees reach full height at around 150 years old but can live exceptionally long lives in favorable conditions, sometimes up to a thousand years.
History
Ancient Germanic and Slavic cultures revered the Linden tree as sacred, using it for gatherings and legal proceedings. Even today, ancient Lindens grace many village squares. During blooming season, the Winter Linden emits a sweet fragrance known for its calming effects, which may have influenced legal disputes positively. The tree´s harmonizing effect on the nervous system has been utilized for millennia. The term "lind", now rarely used, means mildness or softness in various Indo-European languages. This name aptly captures the essence of this tree. The medicinal properties of Linden flower tea were first documented around 400 years ago by the German physician Johann Joachim Becher.
Components and effects
In June (Summer Linden) or July (Winter Linden), the trees bloom fully, and the flowers are harvested carefully on sunny, dry days. Linden flowers are dried in the shade and stored in paper bags or dark glass containers. When brewed as tea with elderflowers, Linden flowers induce sweating by sensitizing sweat glands to the sympathetic nervous system. This promotes sweating and helps prevent colds when consumed regularly for up to four weeks.
Medical use
Linden flowes both Winter and Summer Lindens stimulate sweating, alleviate coughs, and promote relaxation. The exact compound responsible for inducing sweat is not definitevely identified but has been shown to be effective through comparisons with hot water. The essential oils in Linden flowers bring inner calmness. Linalool is primarily responsible for this effect, known for its aroma reminiscent of muscat grapes. Benzyl alcohols present in Jasmine contribute to the overall fragrance in Linden flowers. A strong infusion of Linden flowers can turn a bath into a relaxing experience, recommendes for nervous restlessness and nerve pain. Traditionally, dried Linden flowers are brewed into tea by steeping a teaspoon in a quarter-liter of boiling water for five minutes.
