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Linden
There are many species of linden tress, but most commercial linden is derived
from basswood or lime trees, large deciduous trees that often grow over 100
feet in height. The white or yellowish fragrant flowers are collected in late
spring and must be dried quickly in the shade. The dried flowers must be kept
dry, as even a small amount of moisture will reduce their aroma and the effectiveness
of their healing properties. Since the middle ages, linden flower tea has been
used to cause sweating, though large amounts need to be consumed to induce perspiration
and reduce fevers. Due to this, the taste of the tea is very important. Linden
flowers high in tannin and with low mucilage content produce a tastier tea than
those lower in tannin and higher in mucilage. Linden flower tea also relieves
tension and anxiety, reduces muscle tension, and helps to relieve insomnia.
Linden is also believed to treat headaches, indigestion, hysteria, and diarrhea.
The relaxant effects of linden work on the arteries as well, making it a useful
treatment for high blood pressure and heart disease. It was once believed that
linden was such an effective treatment of epilepsy that patients could be cured
simply by sitting under the tree. Linden is important in the nervous system
where it takes antispasmodic action to reduce stress and tension, working as
a remedy for sleeplessness, headaches, high blood pressure, and indigestion
associated with nervous tension. Since linden induces perspiration, enabling
the body to sweat out toxins, it is an effective treatment for colds and flu.
Linden is best consumed as a tea, prepared by putting 3 flowers in 1 cup of
hot water, and drunk three times a day to treat indigestion, stress, headaches,
and general tension. Linden flowers can be boiled, strained, and added to a
bath to calm nerves and relax muscles. Flowers obtained from basswood or lime
trees are the best tasting. Linden flowers must be stored in airtight, light-resistant
containers to preserve their fragrance. 2-5mL of linden tincture should be taken
at bedtime for sleeplessness, and for high blood pressure, 2mL of tincture should
be taken 3 times a day. Frequent and/or excessive use of linden may damage the
heart, so those with heart disease or cardiac problems should avoid linden.
Linden is native to Europe and is generally found in the wild, but is also planted
in gardens and along roadsides. The flowers are collected in summertime.
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