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Linden is a tree that is widespread in the temperate zone, i.e. here as well. In the past it was regarded as a symbol of reconciliation and love. Few people, however, know that the linden has, besides its magnificent appearance, many medicinal effects. In the Czech Republic the large-leaved and small-leaved linden are most common. Other lindens planted in parks are not suitable for medicinal purposes.
In June and July you have a unique opportunity
Linden flower tea not only has positive effects on our health, but it attracts people with its lovely honey scent.
They are harvested at the beginning of flowering, that is in June and July, before the spherical fruits begin to form. The whole inflorescences are harvested. They are dried at temperatures up to 35 ° C in the shade so they do not lose their color and the leaves have a light yellow color.
Linden tea has a diaphoretic effect
Since ancient times it has been used for all ailments related to colds because of its strong diaphoretic effect. This is due to its increased content of glycosides. Besides them, linden flowers also contain essential oils, tannins, flavonoids, carbohydrates, vitamin C and substances similar to vitamin E.
Positive effects on human health:
- acts as a prevention against colds
- unsweetened tea is excellent for weight loss
- strengthens the body’s immune defenses
- helps in treating influenza, reduces fever
- speeds up the treatment of bronchitis, facilitates expectoration
- soothes sore throats
- a natural diuretic, promotes urination
- helps flush harmful substances from the body
- reduces stomach cramps
- helps with infectious diseases and intestinal troubles
- acts against insomnia, nervousness, migraine and irritability
- suitable for treating kidney and bladder diseases
Drying linden flowers
You can dry them in a well-ventilated place spread out on a tray, or use a dehydrator. The temperature should not exceed 35 ° C.
Store dried flowers in the dark and dry, preferably in glass jars.
Preparation of linden tea
The medicinal power of linden flowers is used both externally and internally. When drinking linden tea, leave the crushed dry flowers to steep for about 10 minutes. If you want to prepare an infusion for compresses, let it steep for 20 minutes or even half an hour.
How to prepare the tea
Take a handful of linden flowers and pour over half a liter of boiling water. Leave covered to steep for about 10 minutes. The tea tastes best in its natural state, but it can also be served flavored with honey or lemon. It is drunk regularly, but not long-term. Its serving temperature should not be higher than 39 ° C, as it can strain the circulatory system.
Linden tea for a good sleep
The tea not only has a delicious taste and unmistakable aroma. After a cup of linden tea you will fall asleep like a small child.
Linden flower honey
It is good for the heart and blood vessels, it helps with fever, colds and sore throats.
Ingredients:
- 250 g of linden flowers including the leaves around the flowers
- 1 kg of sugar
- 2 pcs of lemon
- 2 l of water
Method:
- Spread the linden flowers on baking paper so that any little insects can crawl out.
- Then transfer them to a larger pot, pour in the water and add the washed lemons sliced into rounds.
- Place on the heat and boil for 15 minutes.
- Then remove from the heat and let stand for 24 hours.
- The next day strain, add the sugar and, like the previously mentioned honey, cook this one down until thickened.
- Fill into jars while still hot, close and store in a pantry.
Linden flower syrup
We need:
- Linden flowers (enough to fill a 4-liter container)
- 3 kg of sugar
- 4 lemons
- 50 g of citric acid
Method:
Pick the linden flowers – pick the full flowers. Place the flowers on newspapers so any little insects can crawl out. Then transfer the flowers into a container and pour cold water over them. The next day strain and squeeze the flowers well through gauze.
To the liquid we add the lemon juice, citric acid and also the sugar.
Transfer the liquid to the heat and warm it; I turn off the heat always a bit before the liquid reaches boiling point (about 85 degrees). Pour the hot liquid into sterilized glass containers and seal. I was afraid the glass would crack, so I wrapped the jars with a damp cloth.
Store the syrup in a cool, dark place. Add it to drinks like a classic syrup.
