The delightful aroma of Linden tree
flowers gently invite us to enjoy its medicinal benefits. Linden is a
common flowering tree that grows in the US, Europe and other similar
climates. The flower, wood and leaves are all used as medicine. It
is a long-standing favorite European remedy. It is considered to be a
family herb in that it is helpful to both young and old, alike. It is
most commonly used as a nervous system tonic, as it relaxes the nervous
system. It makes a delightful, aromatic cup of tea that is great for
unwinding at the end of a long day. Its uplifting nature makes it a
wonderful antidote to depression. It is said to also help with
heartache and grief. The well-regarded herbalist Matthew Wood uses
a combination of linden and elder as a successful treatment for
hyperactive children and linden, hawthorn and elder for cases of ADHD. Linden covers a large range of maladies, from insomnia,
nervous and muscle tension, depression, anxiety, hysteria, mania,
digestive issues, hyperactivity, diarrhea, colds, coughs,
arteriosclerosis, asthma, bronchitis and sore throat. Being an
antispasmodic, it can ease muscle spasms, cramps, tight muscles,
headaches and migraines, as well as menstrual cramps. Other uses
include assisting in lowering blood pressure and aiding colds, as it can help break a fever. It can be used topically to
help regenerate the skin and for boils, acne, burns, rashes,
freckles and wrinkles. It is also used as a gargle for mouth sores.
Try linden in a cup of tea by itself
or make an enjoyable summer iced tea blend of linden, lemon balm, mint,
rose, and hibiscus.
Linden can also be used in baths as a
relaxing agent. The fresh flowers can be placed in a jar of honey
for a few days to make a very tasty linden-infused honey.
by Theresa Musatto
