ENGLISH NAME: Small-leaved Lime, Linden
LATIN NAME: Tilia cordata
LOCAL NAMES:
Czechia: Lípa malolistá
Turkey: Ihlamur
Bulgaria: Липа дребнолистна (Lipa drebnolistna)
Georgia: ცაცხვი (Tsatskhvi)
COUNTRY: Georgia, Czechia, Turkey, Bulgaria, and widespread across Europe and Western Asia
WHERE TO FIND IT:
Region: All regions of Georgia
Elevation: Lowlands to uplands
Terrain: Forests, woodlands, riverbanks, city parks, gardens
DESCRIPTION:
Tilia cordata, or small-leaved lime/linden, is a large deciduous tree (18–25 meters/60–80 feet high) with a pyramidal or conical crown and straight trunk. The heart-shaped, serrated leaves (5–8 cm long) are dark green above, lighter beneath, and fragrant when crushed. In late spring to early summer, the tree produces clusters of small, pale yellow, intensely fragrant flowers, which are pollinator-attracting. Bark is grayish-brown, developing fissures as the tree matures.
USABLE PARTS: Flowers, leaves, bark
MEDICINAL PROPERTIES:
Sedative and Relaxant: Flower infusions are calming, often used for stress, anxiety, insomnia, and mild nervous tension.
Anti-inflammatory: Traditionally used for colds, fever, and inflammatory conditions.
Antioxidant: Contains flavonoids and polyphenols which help neutralize free radicals.
Diaphoretic: Promotes gentle perspiration; helpful for fevers and detoxification.
Respiratory Support: Used for coughs, colds, mild respiratory tract infections, and to soothe throat irritation.
UNDESIRED EFFECTS:
Allergic Reactions: Rare; may cause reactions in those sensitive to linden pollen or plants in the Tiliaceae family.
Potential Drug Interactions: May enhance effects of sedatives or interact with medications metabolized by the liver.
Pregnancy/Lactation: Limited data; consult a healthcare provider before use.
Excessive Sedation: Large amounts may cause drowsiness—use caution when driving or operating machinery.
COMBINING WITH OTHER MEDICINES:
May be combined with lemon balm or chamomile for enhanced relaxation and sleep support.
PREPARATION:
Tea/Infusion: Use 1–2 teaspoons dried linden flowers per cup of hot (not boiling) water, steep 5–10 minutes, strain, and sweeten as desired.
Tincture: Macerate dried flowers in alcohol for several weeks, then strain; use in drops as directed by a herbalist.
HARVEST TIME:
Flowers: Late spring to early summer, at full bloom but before they begin to brown.
Leaves/Bark: Early summer for young leaves; bark can be harvested in late spring or autumn (traditionally from younger branches).
HARVEST METHOD:
Cut flower clusters with several inches of stem using clean, sharp scissors or shears.
Pick only healthy, undamaged flowers and avoid overharvesting from a single tree.
CONSERVATION (STORAGE):
Drying: Air-dry flowers/leaves in a single layer away from sunlight, turning as needed until crisp.
Storage: Store dried plant material in airtight, dark glass containers, away from light, heat, and moisture.
Inspection: Periodically check for signs of moisture or mold;