Common names: littleleaf linden or small-leaved linden

Description:

The species of lime (Tilia spp.) are tall, deciduous trees with a rich crown, belonging to the linden (Tiliaceae) family. The distinctively heart-shaped, rounded to triangular-ovate leaves are simple, asymmetric with serrated margins, long petioles and they are arranged alternately. The hermaphrodite flowers with type 5 symmetrical petals are fragrant and have numerous stamens. They are whitish-yellow and grouped by 4-15, forming pedunculated umbels. The small-leaved lime (T. cordata) blooms at the end of June while the large-leaved one (T. platyphyllos) blooms a little faster, in early to mid-June.

Small-leaved lime occurs in mountainous and hilly areas, up to an altitude of 1400 m above sea level and prefers slightly acid soils. The large-leaved lime grows in the flatlands, up to an altitude of 1200 m. It prefers fresh soils rich in humus and is not sensitive to acidity. Both species are frequently planted in town parks or along the alley sidewalks.

Collection:

Both in case of small-leaved and large-leaved lime, the drug is contained in the dried flowers (Tiliae flos). It is important that collectors know the differences between these two species used for medical purposes and the silver linden. The flowers are picked when the middle ones bloom. Before drying, it is important to remove all other plant parts (leaves, buds, fruits) from the mixture.

Active substances:

The plant contains flavonoids (quercetin, tiliroside), a small amount of essential oils, tannins, cyanogenic glycosides and mucous substances.

Uses:

Due to its diaphoretic and expectorant effects, the drug obtained from the flowers of both small-leaved and large-leaved lime can be used individually or blended with other teas, especially for treating colds. It is often used as a component of diuretic or stomach-strengthening tea blends, throat or mouth rinse mixtures. It is also known for its mild sedative effects.

From the wood of linden species, activated charcoal can be obtained, which can be used in medical purposes, to treat intestinal infections or enteritis but also as prime material for cosmetics or skincare products.

Linden tea for sore throat:

A teaspoon of linden flowers is mixed with 200 ml boiling water and allowed to infuse for 10-15 minutes. 2-3 cups of tea are recommended daily, sweetened with honey or sugar.

Lime mixture for throat rinse:

A teaspoon of linden flowers is mixed with 200 ml water and a half a teaspoon of baking soda. In case of tonsillitis, use hot tea for the mixture because it is more effective.

Lime flower bath:

Add 500 grams of dried flowers to 3 litres of boiling water, strain and add it to the bath water. We recommend a 15-20 minute-long bath.