Useful properties of linden or how a long-lived tree will help
Linden is one of the most popular plants with healing powers. The beneficial properties of linden make it a godsend for traditional medicine. Almost all parts of this tree are medicinal and are widely used for the manufacture of various remedies for many diseases. There are more than 40 varieties of linden, but the most medicinal is the heart-shaped or small-leaved linden. How did she earn such popularity, what can and where is it used?
Small-leaved linden grows over 10 m in height and lives up to 300 years.
Chemical composition
Linden is rich in various vitamins, trace elements and many useful substances. Flavonoids are one of the main components - it is thanks to them that lime tinctures have an antipyretic effect.
Also included in the composition are other, no less useful, substances:
- vitamins A and C;
- amino acids;
- antioxidants;
- essential oil;
- tannins;
- phytoncides;
- glycosides.
Useful properties of linden
Means prepared on the basis of linden (flowers or leaves) have a beneficial effect on the human body, namely:
- have diaphoretic and diuretic properties;
- relieve inflammation;
- soothe and relieve pain.
What diseases is linden used for
Linden decoctions and tinctures will help in the treatment of such diseases:
- colds and sore throats;
- gout;
- stomatitis and other diseases of the oral cavity;
- obesity.
Also, the brewed linden blossom will help you fall asleep faster during insomnia and relieve headaches. And young linden leaves will help relieve joint pain. To do this, they need to be doused with boiling water, folded into a cloth bag and attached to the problem area, wrapped in a warm towel.
Despite the beneficial properties of linden, it is not recommended to use its tinctures for people suffering from heart and vascular diseases. Linden stimulates the cardiovascular system and can aggravate.
How to procure medicinal raw materials
Linden blossom is most often used in folk medicine. It is harvested during flowering, which, by the way, does not last long - only 2 weeks. The flowers are cut off together with the petals, a whole bunch, and dried. It is necessary to store the linden blossom in fabric bags and preferably only until the next season. To prepare a decoction of 1 tbsp. l. linden flowers are poured with boiling water and simmered over low heat for 10 minutes. You need to drink the broth at night.