Lime: a tree of many virtues

The linden is a large tree that abounds in virtues. Its health benefits date back centuries. It is traditionally consumed in various forms: infusion of flowers and leaves, bud macerate or sapwood decoction. In phytotherapy, linden is particularly recommended for its effects on sleep, the immune system and digestion. In this article, discover the various benefits of linden on the body.

Introduction and use of linden

Before focusing on the benefits of linden, let's take a look at the plant itself. The linden is an ornamental tree that can grow up to fifteen meters tall. It belongs to the Tilia family. There are around a hundred species worldwide. Lime trees are widely distributed in Europe and France.

Linden flowers, leaves and sapwood

The tree is made up of different parts.

• A broad trunk with smooth, gray bark that conceals a first layer of soft sapwood.
• At the end of the branch are the characteristic heart-shaped leaves.
• The inflorescence consists of small, fragrant yellow flowers and bracts (thin, elongated leaves at the base of the flower).
• Lime produces fruit in the form of small seeds.

Use of the tree: from woodworking to phytotherapy

Today, linden trees are used for many purposes. First, it's used for woodworking and perfumery. Secondly, linden honey is produced, and the flowers and seeds, which are edible, are consumed. Last but not least, the benefits of linden make it ideal for use in alternative medicine.

Linden and alternative medicine

Alternative medicine encompasses a range of non-conventional medicinal practices. One of these is phytotherapy, i.e. treatment using plants. Phytotherapy itself includes other branches. These include gemmotherapy (use of plant buds) and aromatherapy (treatment with essential oils).

Plants recognized in phytotherapy

Certain lime trees are listed as medicinal plants in the French Pharmacopoeia:

• tilia cordata or sylvestris (for its sapwood and inflorescences) ;
• tilia platyphyllos (for its flowers and bracts) ;
• tilia tomentosa (for buds only).

Herbal teas, macerates, baths: what forms does linden take?

At home, dried flowers and bracts can be infused in boiling water. Linden can also be used to make decoctions of sapwood, or a glycerol macerate from the buds. The plant can also be used externally, applied to the skin or infused in a bath. Capsules and tablets containing lime blossom's active ingredients are also available.

Benefits of linden infusion

To enjoy the taste and benefits of lime blossom, there's nothing like a homemade herbal tea. Pick Tilia platyphyllos Scop. inflorescences in the woods or your garden and leave to dry. Or buy dried lime blossoms. Allow 15 minutes for infusion in boiling water. Enjoy plain or with a little honey.

Infusions for sleep disorders

The infusion of inflorescences is traditionally drunk in the evening to combat sleep disorders. The benefits of linden tea in maintaining relaxation are well known. In fact, the infusion helps reduce stress, irritability, agitation and tension.

The benefits of linden tea against colds

Thanks to the properties and benefits of lime blossom, dried flower herbal teas are a winter ally. They support the immune system and maintain the body's defenses. In the event of a temporary cold, the soothing action of linden infusion soothes irritation of the throat and pharynx. Lastly, infusion of the plant promotes expectoration and sweating in febrile conditions.

Action of linden infusions on digestion

Linden infusions are traditionally used for digestive well-being. They support the digestive system (notably the liver and gall bladder) and help digest fats.

Linden: detox teas?

The latest benefits of linden infusions focus on the body's elimination functions. The drink supports kidney function and promotes water elimination. These actions help detoxify the body.

Other medicinal properties of linden

The benefits of lime blossom can also be enjoyed with other preparations.

• Sapwood decoction offers draining, spasmolytic and choleretic properties. This preparation supports the functions of the liver, gallbladder and kidneys. It helps eliminate water and toxins, notably uric acid.
• A lime blossom-based preparation can also be used externally. The soothing effect calms pruritus and eczema.
• Infusing flowers in the bath provides a few minutes' relaxation and helps reduce stress. Lime baths are also suitable for children.
• Bud glycerol macerate is said to reduce menopausal discomfort and insomnia.
• Linden essential oils have many virtues: antispasmodic, sedative, anti-inflammatory and more.

In all cases, seek your doctor's advice before undertaking any natural therapy. Would you like to enjoy the benefits of linden infusion? Order our linden mint herbal tea. Floral and refreshing, it will delight your taste buds for a moment of relaxation.