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nature direct 2u
Agrimony Glossary |
Lime flower |
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Tilia spp. This
genus has approximately 50 species and these deciduous trees are natives
from North America to Mexico, Europe, some central portions of Asia, and
Japan and are also commonly known as Basswoods or Lindens. Tilia
cordata and Tilia platyphyllos generally being the most
available and studied. Though
called lime flower, Tilia is not related to the
familiar green lime fruit. These are large stately trees with simple, toothed, oval/heart-shaped leaves and flower late, producing fragrant white/yellow flowers. They are mainly seen in avenues and parks, as they need space due to their lack of tolerance of competition from other trees. Regardless
of species & since
time immemorial, the fragrant and tasty flowers have been used
medicinally as a calming agent and to relieve indigestion, the common
cold, and griping or colicky pain in the abdomen. It's
therapeutic actions are antispasmodic, diaphoretic, diuretic, hypotensive
and nervine. Clinical
trials have shown that Tilia flower tea can help people with mild
gallbladder problems (but not gallstones), upset stomach or dyspepsia,
and excessive gas that causes the stomach to push up and put pressure on
the heart (also known as the gastrocardiac syndrome). Tilia is commonly used to calm the nerves and relax the body. In Mexico, the flowers & fruits are often mixed with orange blossoms and fresh fennel to make an herbal tea blend popularly sold in the local markets. Bees are highly attracted to the extremely fragrant, minute flowers and produce a delicious honey. Care: The flowers of Tilia tomentosa (Silver Linden) and its varieties are poisonous to bees. DISCLAIMER: This page is intended for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for accurate diagnosis and treatment by a qualified health care professional. The author is neither a chemist nor an herbalist and has had no medical training whatsoever. The content herein is the product of research, not practical experience. |
