Botanical Overview
Tilia cordata, commonly known as Small-leaved lime, Linden, Lime tree, or Littleleaf linden, belongs to the Malvaceae family. The plant parts traditionally used include the flowers, leaves, bark, and wood. It is native to Europe and Western Asia.
Energetics
Tilia cordata is considered cooling in temperature and moistening in nature. Its taste is mildly sweet and slightly bitter. Directionally, it acts in a descending and centered manner, with a relaxing tonicity affecting primarily the qi system.
Primary Actions
- Antispasmodic
- Diaphoretic
- Mild sedative
- Anti-inflammatory
- Demulcent
Indications
Western
- Nervous tension
- Anxiety
- Cold symptoms
- Cough
- Fever
- Headache
- Insomnia
- Digestive discomfort
Syndromes
- Common cold
- Upper respiratory tract infection
- Mild anxiety states
- Stress-related insomnia
- Spasmodic cough
TCM
No well-established traditional uses documented.
Ayurveda
No well-established traditional uses documented.
Unani
No well-established traditional uses documented.
Constituents & Mechanisms
The primary phytochemical constituents of Tilia cordata include flavonoids, volatile oils, mucilage, tannins, and sesquiterpene lactones, which contribute to its sedative, anti-inflammatory, and diaphoretic effects.
Dosage & Preparations
- Infusion: 2-4 g flowers per cup, 1-3 times daily
- Tincture: 1:5, 45% ethanol, 2-4 mL 1-3 times daily
Safety & Contraindications
Tilia cordata is generally regarded as safe when used appropriately. Avoid use in individuals with known allergies to Tilia species. Caution is advised during pregnancy and lactation due to insufficient safety data. Excessively large doses may cause increased sweating or hypotension. Potential additive effects with sedatives should be considered.
Astrological Correspondences
No widely accepted planetary or elemental rulers identified with sufficient authoritative sourcing.
Selected References
- Community Herbal Monograph on Tiliae flos, European Medicines Agency (2019)
- Tilia cordata (Linden): Botanical, Chemical and Clinical Review, Phytotherapy Desk Reference (2015)
- Tilia cordata Mill., Plants For A Future Database