Linden, also known as lime blossom, is a tree that belongs to the Malvaceae family and has approximately 40 different species worldwide. It grows in temperate and subtropical regions. Linden trees can be seen in the form of trees or shrubs and are cultivated in many places due to their pleasant fragrance. The flowers and leaves of the linden tree can be used to make tea. The flowers, which are yellowish-white in color between June and August, mature during the autumn season and can be harvested towards the end of the season. The dried flowers and leaves, which can be obtained by drying them, have a pleasant aroma due to the volatile oils they contain. Moreover, the active substances found in the plant can be used to support the treatment of various health problems. After the leaves and flowers of the linden tree are collected and dried, they can be brewed like black tea. Traditionally, linden tea is known to have various benefits such as calming, reducing fever, strengthening the immune system, and preventing spasms. Additionally, linden tea can be consumed for its strong expectorant properties to soothe the respiratory system. Before discussing the benefits of linden tea for cold and flu symptoms, let me answer the frequently asked question, “What is linden?”
What is the linden plant?
Linden, also known as lime blossom, is a tree species belonging to the Malvaceae family. It can be defined as a long-lived tree that grows in temperate climates. Linden can grow up to 30 meters in height and has approximately 40 different species, but only two of them, Tilia Platyphyllos (Large-leaved linden) and Tilia Cordata (Small-leaved linden or European linden), are used for medicinal purposes. Consuming the leaves and flowers of these linden species by brewing them as tea can be beneficial. Although linden tea is usually made from the flowers and leaves of the tree, in some regions, the bark of the tree is also used to prepare tea. However, the most valuable part of the linden tree as a medicinal plant is its flowers. The flowers are yellowish-white in color and have a very pleasant fragrance but are highly sensitive. After the flowers, leaves, and bark of the tree are collected, they need to be dried before consumption. After the drying process, linden becomes suitable for brewing as tea. Additionally, commercially available linden teas can be consumed to aid the treatment of certain ailments. Linden contains vitamins A, B6, C, and P, as well as minerals such as iron, manganese, and calcium. The brewed tea made from linden parts has many benefits. Linden, with its antioxidant properties, can be used as a diuretic and to promote sweating. Due to these properties, linden can also be said to have detoxifying and anti-inflammatory effects. The volatile oils naturally found in linden allow its unique aroma to emerge. It also has a calming and soothing effect on the human metabolism. One frequently asked question is, “What are the benefits of linden tea?”
What are the benefits of the linden plant?
Linden can be obtained by drying the flowers, leaves, and bark of the linden tree or purchased as dried herbs from herbal stores or in tea bags from markets. Those who want to dry linden should pluck the flowers and leaves where they connect to the stem. The harvested flowers and leaves should be placed on a cloth in a shaded area for drying. The dried herb should be consumed within a year. Linden can be used in a wide range of areas for
its benefits. Here are the benefits of linden tea:
- Linden tea consumed after a stressful day helps the body and mind relax due to the effects of its volatile oils.
- It can support the healing of certain skin conditions such as acne and psoriasis, which can be triggered by stress.
- It can be effective in soothing throat irritation caused by respiratory infections. When prepared with honey, it is even more effective in relieving throat discomfort.
- It can help reduce coughing associated with certain ailments.
- When consumed after meals, it prevents complaints such as indigestion, bloating, and constipation.
- Linden tea can help regulate bowel movements.
- When consumed with lemon, it can support the immune system.
- Individuals with insomnia problems may find it easier to fall asleep when they consume linden tea in the evening.
- Linden tea’s diuretic properties can help increase urination and sweating, aiding in the elimination of toxins and reducing edema.
- Linden tea can help warm up the body in cold weather. Consuming linden tea during cold temperatures facilitates warming.
- It can be effective in reducing blemishes and wrinkles on the skin. Applying pre-prepared and cooled linden tea to the skin and massaging can be beneficial.
- Placing cotton soaked in linden tea on the eyelids after it has been cooled can help reduce under-eye dark circles. The cotton soaked in linden tea needs to be left on the eyelids for about 15 minutes. This process also reduces bacteria around the eye area.