Linden Tea Benefits and Side Effects

Linden Flower Tea is an example of a lesser-known herbal infusion. The same applies to Linden Tea benefits, which, despite offering much, have yet to become widespread.

Here at The Kent and Sussex Tea and Coffee Company, we plan to change that. The following article will explore the facts, figures, history and health benefits of this remarkable beverage.

The last question above we can answer right now. You can indeed get the best Linden Flower Tea right here with us. We pack almost all of our products, including this one, fresh to order. This ensures not only quality but also consistency with every cuppa brewed.

But before you get brewing, let’s learn more about it. Are you ready to explore the world of Linden Tea benefits and side effects?

What is Linden Tea?

This Tea comes from the common lime tree (Tilia x europaea.) It is a natural hybrid of the small-leaved lime (Tilia cordata) and the large-leaved lime (Tilia platyphyllos), which mostly grows in the northern hemisphere.

Other names associated with it include European Linden, European Lime and Basswood. Contrary to popular belief, it is not closely related to the lime fruit. 

These trees, easily recognised by their beauty and grandeur, can reach heights of up to 40 metres (130 feet). They thrive across Europe, North America and parts of Asia.

Most of them take on imposing, craggy girths with age and often prosper for a millennium. They also have rapidly dividing branches covered in distinctive heart-shaped leaves. 

Their creamy-yellow flowers, meanwhile, which are known as “tilleul” in France and “lindenblüten” in Germany, are the components used in the making of Linden Tea.

They grow on lime trees during the late spring and, when brewed, have a sweet, delectably floral flavour with an equally alluring aroma. Then there is the fact that their frequent consumption can result in Linden Tea benefits. 

Germany, in particular, has long held lime trees in high esteem. Traditional German villages commonly have a central lime tree used as a meeting place, which essentially becomes the symbolic heart of the community.

They likewise have a close association with Freya, the Germanic goddess of love, spring and fertility, with their shade providing the scene of many a fairy tale.

Linden Tea Properties

Mythical folk stories are one thing; the science behind Linden Tea benefits another altogether. Indeed, when it comes to its health potential, there is irrefutable evidence.

We now know without a doubt that this Tea contains a wealth of vitamins, minerals and other antioxidants capable of improving your life in small yet significant ways. This includes the following Linden Flower Tea properties:

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But what, exactly, can these chemical compounds do? How can they support your health and wellbeing during your daily routine? If you’re interested in discovering more, please keep reading our “Linden Tea benefits” section below.

We have compiled the latest evidence, which in turn comes from only the most reputable scientific studies, showcasing its finer qualities.

Linden Tea Benefits

Oxidation is a process that applies to humans and Tea types alike. When it comes to your morning cuppa, it refers to the change that takes place during its production (specifically Tea from the Camellia sinensis plant).

With humans, however, it broadly relates to the transference of oxygen around the body. This has its benefits, of course - but it also has some downsides. 

Notably, oxidative stress can result in the introduction of unpaired (and unsafe) electrons called free radicals. These then latch onto healthy electrons, creating a chain reaction that increases the risk of developing numerous chronic conditions.

Yet Linden Tea benefits can help. This beverage is indeed an antioxidant cocktail well-suited to combating and ultimately neutralising free radicals. 

But there’s more. Not only can Linden Herbal Tea lessen your chances of experiencing cardiovascular disease, type-2 diabetes and cancer, but also reduce anxiety and blood pressure.

Furthermore, it helps you to sleep while promoting weight loss and aiding digestion. Linden Flower Tea for sore throats, too, is an excellent choice. So, let’s now dive deep into the “hows” and “whys.”

Linden Flower Tea for Sleep

An estimated 30% of people experience insomnia, a condition characterised as an often chronic inability to fall asleep. What’s more, even those sufferers who DO manage to “nod off” may find it challenging to achieve restorative, high-quality sleep.

Could Linden Tea benefits be the answer? Not quite - but they could certainly offer a helping hand. 

If, then, you’re wondering, “Should You Drink Tea Before Bed?,” the answer is a resounding “yes” when it comes to Linden Herbal Tea. The reason, according to a 2015 study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology, is its strong sedative properties.

Scientists found that it mimicked the activity of Gaba-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a brain chemical that inhibits excitability in the nervous system. 

Linden Flower Tea for Anxiety

Anxiety is a common condition best recognised as an often incessant feeling of worry, fear or nervousness. Many will know all too well that it can surface at any time, at any place, including just before or even during bedtime.

It is, perhaps unsurprisingly, one such factor that can cause insomnia. So, how can Linden Flower Tea for anxiety provide support here? 

Interestingly, the same study referenced above in our “Linden Flower Tea for Sleep” section has some of the answers. It discovered that extracts of this herb had calmative properties, thereby reducing anxious behaviour in animals.

Whether this applies to humans, too, remains to be seen. However, there is no denying that a nice, warming cuppa can do miracles when our mental health is struggling.

Linden Tea Sore Throat Treatment

A sore throat typically arises when you’re suffering from a cold or the flu. It can cause pain, scratchiness or irritation while making it harder to swallow.

If you’re looking for Sore Throat Remedies with Tea, you’ve chosen well with this one. The facts come from a 2012 report published by the European Medicines Agency, which note that it can relieve multiple cold symptoms. 

But how does it work? Linden Leaves Tea contains mucilage, a sticky substance reportedly capable of soothing irritated membranes in the mouth or throat.

There is also preliminary (emphasis on “preliminary”) evidence indicating that it decreases overall mucus production. You might also want to try Ginger, Liquorice, Turmeric or Green Tea for relief.

Linden Flower Tea for Weight Loss

Losing those pesky pounds isn’t easy. It takes hard work, determination and perseverance - not to mention a healthy and active lifestyle. Some believe, although not yet proven outright, that Linden Tea benefits boost the metabolism of fat cells.

This, in theory, could enable the body to burn fat quicker and more efficiently, thus promoting natural weight loss. 

Additionally, it’s worth noting that this Tea contains no more than four calories per 8-oz serving. It is then a great alternative to sugary, fatty soft drinks - while at the same time tasting much better!

Just remember, though, that it isn’t going to do all of the work for you. In other words, you’ll need to carry on with your morning jogs and evening salads if you want to see real change. 

Linden Tea and Blood Pressure

We’ve already established that this herbal infusion improves heart health by slowing down natural, yet harmful, human oxidation. There is also, however, the possibility of it lowering blood pressure.

The most famous beverage to achieve this is Hibiscus Tea (consider reading our Benefits of Hibiscus Tea article). Nevertheless, research from multiple studies suggests that Linden Tea benefits, too, have similar qualities. 

One particular animal-based study found that tiliroside, an antioxidant in Linden Herbal Tea, affected calcium channels in the heart. Calcium plays a role in the heart’s muscular contractions, which thereby saw systolic blood pressure decrease significantly.

Until we know more, though, The Kent and Sussex Tea and Coffee Company does NOT endorse this Tea for this purpose.

Linden Tea for Digestion

Folk medicine has, for centuries, used Linden Tea Flower benefits for alleviating indigestion. One of the reasons for this is relatively simple: hot Tea delivers gentle heat and hydration, thus soothing your digestive tract.

The same could then apply to any type, be it Green, Black, Peppermint or Camomile. But there could well be more to this specific beverage’s ability. 

A small study in children with antibiotic-resistant diarrhoea, which was published in Pharmacognosy Magazine, found that linden extract showed potent antibacterial properties.

It did, however, conclude that more research was needed to confirm these seemingly remarkable results. Once again, then, we urge caution when choosing Linden Tea for digestion, especially for diarrhoea.

Linden Flower Tea Side Effects

There is no getting around the issue that there’s an element of risk involved with drinking ANY Herbal Tea. This is especially the case among people with underlying health conditions.

And so, the question begs: are there examples of Linden Tea side effects? Unfortunately, yes. Although a rare occurrence, there have been some instances of it causing allergic reactions when consumed or applied topically. 

Furthermore, some scientists have noted that Linden Tea heart damage can occur despite it typically being a benefit to the cardiovascular system. As a result, if you experience any symptoms from it, it is absolutely paramount that you seek medical consultation.

First and foremost, The Kent and Sussex Tea and Coffee Company cares about the welfare of its customers.

Linden Flower Tea Pregnancy

Should you drink Linden Tea during pregnancy? Most importantly, is it safe? Possibly. Few specific studies appear to exist making a case either for or against its consumption while expecting.

However, it is sometimes best to err on the side of caution. The same rules likewise apply to breastfeeding mothers. We recommend, as a result, that you speak to your midwife if you have any uncertainty. 

A worthwhile alternative, despite also being a Herbal Tea, is that of Raspberry Leaf Tea (during the third trimester ONLY). The evidence here is that this particular infusion could come with scientifically proven pregnancy benefits.

Specifically, mothers-to-be choose it for toning the muscles of the uterus, which then helps while in labour.

Linden Flower Tea Caffeine

Does Linden Tea contain caffeine? This stimulating chemical compound famously gets us out of bed in the morning. While it exists in “real” Tea, as well as Coffee Beans, this particular infusion is 100% caffeine-free.

But is this a good thing or a bad thing? It very much depends on your perspective - and, ultimately, what you want out of your morning cuppa. 

This beverage is undoubtedly a great choice for those who’re sensitive to the effects of caffeine, as well as anyone looking to cut down their intake.

It is indeed one of the reasons why pregnant women choose to drink it - although, as mentioned above, you may want to think twice. Yet if you’re in need of an extra energy boost, the better option is, perhaps naturally so, a caffeinated Tea. We can help either way. 

How to Make Linden Flower Tea

And there you have it: Linden Tea benefits and side effects backed by modern science. If you’re thirsty for more, all we can recommend is that you buy it and brew today.

We stock a loose leaf variety, meaning you’ll also need a Tea Infuser or Filter before you can start (we have you covered here, too). Once you have these items to hand, just follow the instructions below. 

1. Use a Tea Filter / Infuser.

Put Loose Tea into one of our Filters or Infusers.

2. Boil the kettle.

Put the kettle on, making sure the water is fresh. This will ensure better oxygen levels and, ultimately, better Linden Flower Tea taste.

3. Put the Filter or Infuser into a cup.

A porcelain mug has the least influence on the taste.

4. Add freshly boiled water to your cup.

Fill your cup or mug with the water from the kettle.

5. Allow it to Infuse / Steep.

Let it brew for 5-10 minutes. The longer you leave it, the stronger it tastes.

6. Consider a choice of additions.

Some people add honey or lemon, although it tastes best without any accompaniments.

Conclusion

We have explored “what is Linden Tea?” from its botanical features to its extraordinary health benefits. Questions answered have included “does Linden Tea help anxiety?”, “is Linden Flower Tea for sleep beneficial?”, and “does Linden Tea have caffeine?”

Now all that’s left is to buy it and try is right here with The Kent and Sussex Tea and Coffee Company. Start your journey today. 

Author: Richard Smith

Partner at The Kent and Sussex Tea and Coffee Company

Richard Smith is a Tea expert, entrepreneur, and owner of The Kent and Sussex Tea and Coffee Company. Part of a family of renowned Tea planters dating back four generations, he was born in Calcutta (Kolkata), India, where he spent his childhood between Tea Estates in Assam and Darjeeling.

In the late 1970s, having accumulated years of knowledge in the industry, Mr Smith and his mother, Janet Smith, moved to Kent, South East England, to establish a Tea business in the village of Pluckley. Their early days of packing Tea Bags by hand from chests of 10,000 prompted the creation of the company’s flagship infusion known as Pluckley Tea. It remains our most popular product today.

Mr Smith, who studied economics at London Polytechnic, has since specialised in over 1,000 types of Loose Leaf Tea - in addition to around 70 varieties of Roast Coffee - from around the world. These are now available at The Kent and Sussex Tea and Coffee Company, where everything is still packed by hand and fresh to order, not only to honour tradition but to ensure the utmost quality and consistency.