Herb of the Week: Linden

Have you ever heard of Linden (botanical name Tilia spp.)? This is an herb that grows as flowers and leaves from a tree, similar to our well-known Hawthorn leaves and flowers (and berries). This less known, yet powerful herb, is associated with the heart so why not talk about it during heart awareness month and the month of love?? In fact, in European folklore, it's called the "tree of lovers"! This makes a tea with a slight honeyed flavor so it brings its own sweetness.

Not only is this a wonderful plant ally for the cardiovascular system (manages blood pressure and arterial tension), but it also acts like a nervine to relax and soothe the nervous system. Many have used it to relieve anxiety and stress as well as to help them sleep. And, because it's so soothing and relaxing, it also supports the digestive system (I'm sure you've heard "rest and digest"). It's also an antispasmodic and mucilaginous which helps relieve indigestion and digestive cramping and its astringent properties help with reducing loose bowel issues.

Did you also know that Linden can act like a diaphoretic? Meaning, it can increase sweating to help break fevers! And, that's not all. This herb is like the Swiss Army knife of herbs!

As a magical ally, heart-centered spells and rituals are wonderful ways to incorporate this herb as it's a nutritive herb for the heart, both physically and spiritually. It's also an ally for grief, nervous tension, and gentle anxiety. Use this beautiful ally for love, harmony/peace, protection, healing, and renewal spells and rituals. Use it in justice spells since Linden was historically the "court tree" where judgments were made in the olden days. It's also been used to help one connect to one's higher self and intuition.

Have you used Linden? If so, in what way and what is your opinion on it?