Linden, or basswood, scientific name Tilia, is a plant of the Tiliaceae family that can reach considerable size and is characterized by a great longevity. Linden flowers, leaves and bark are considered excellent natural remedies to prepare decoctions and infusions with a calming and antispasmodic action. But let's see in detail the properties of this very special plant.
Linden, properties
Maurice Messegue speaks of linden in his book My herbarium, indicating this plant as a remedy for insomnia, anxiety and restlessness and associated problems such as headache, digestive difficulties, stomach pain. Not only that, the linden tree in external applications can be a help in case of burns, boils and skin inflammations (Messegue, My herbarium). Science has also been interested in the properties of linden, recognizing its anxiolytic and sedative effect due to the fact that it mimics the action of certain substances, called GABA, which inhibit the excitability of the central nervous system (Allio et al, J Ethnopharmacol, 2015). Not only that, linden is also characterized by the presence of substances with a soothing and anti-inflammatory action, useful in case of colds, sore throats and coughs, and it is also pain reliever (Toker et al, J Ethnopharmacol, 2004). Finally, linden is also a diuretic (Messegue, My herbarium - Rodriguez Fragoso et al, Toxicol Appl Pharmacol, 2009).
Linden, infusion, decoction and glycerin macerate
The linden infusion is excellent to taste thanks to its sweet note. To make this tea, bring two cups of water to a boil, remove from heat and add a handful of leaves and flowers. Leave to infuse for ten minutes, then filter and, once lukewarm, drink to benefit from the calming and anti-insomnia action. In case of boils and skin inflammations try to wet a gauze in this infusion and apply it on the affected area. In case of sunburn, you can also prepare a decoction of the bark. Bring one liter of water to a boil together with 2 tablespoons of linden tree bark. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes, then filter. Soak a gauze to apply on the affected area. Alternatively, it is also possible to resort to linden glycerin macerate, useful to counteract anxiety, insomnia, irritable bowel and stress. Take 20-30 drops one to three times a day in a little water (Brigo, Natural Medicine from A to Z).
Linden, warnings
Do not take the linden tree during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Do not overdo the use of linden as an excess can cause laxative effects. Finally, pay attention in case of allergy to linden, in fact in this case reactions can occur (Rodriguez Fragoso et al, Toxicol Appl Pharmacol, 2009).
