Linden

botanical
Best before bed

What is it

Linden (Tilia species, also called lime tree or basswood) is a deciduous tree whose flowers and leaves are used in traditional Western and European herbal medicine for relaxation, mild fever, and sleep.

Evidence for 2 uses

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Relaxation / sleep

Limited

Limited human evidence supports mild calming effects. Traditional use is long-standing across Europe.

Cold and mild fever support

Mixed

Traditional use as a 'diaphoretic' for colds; clinical evidence is sparse but the herb is well-tolerated.

How it works

Linden flowers contain flavonoids (kaempferol, quercetin glycosides), volatile oils, mucilage, and tannins. The flavonoids may have mild anxiolytic effects, possibly via GABA modulation in laboratory models, while mucilage soothes mucous membranes. Linden is traditionally used as a 'diaphoretic' to support mild fever resolution through gentle sweating. Clinical human evidence is limited; most use is traditional and based on long-standing European practice.

Dosage

Traditional tea: 1-2 g dried flowers steeped in hot water, several times daily. Tincture and extract doses vary.

When and how to take it

Tea is often taken before bed for sleep support or during mild illness. Effects are immediate but mild.

2 commercial forms

Linden flower tea (Tilia cordata, T. platyphyllos)

Hot water extraction; well-tolerated.

Traditional preparation.

Linden tincture / extract

Alcohol extracts retain flavonoids and oils.

Used in herbal compound products.

Safety

Generally well-tolerated. Reports of cardiac effects with very prolonged heavy use are anecdotal and uncertain. Mild GI upset can occur.

Who should be cautious

Avoid heavy chronic use. Pregnancy at modest tea doses is traditionally considered safe but evidence is limited. Avoid in those with known Tiliaceae allergy.

Interactions

Mild sedative activity may compound with sleep medications and alcohol. Generally minimal interactions at culinary tea doses.

Frequently asked questions

Is linden safe for children?⌄

Mild traditional use in tea form is widespread in Europe, including in children, but consult a pediatric herbalist or clinician for guidance.

Does it really help sleep?⌄

Effects are mild. Many people find linden tea relaxing as part of an evening routine; rigorous trials are limited.

References

  • Linden on Wikidata — Wikidata link
  • Linden on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link
  • Research on Linden (PubMed search) — PubMed link

Track Linden with Pilora

Set up dose reminders, check interactions, and join the community in the Pilora iPhone app.

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.