Lime has been valued for centuries not only for its aesthetic values, but above all for the richness of healing properties.
Lime in the beliefs of the Slavs
Lime was considered a care tree, protecting against evil powers, diseases and misfortunes and lightning strokes. That is why she was often planted near houses and fields to ensure safety and prosperity. Lime was valued for its healing properties. Her flowers, leaves and bark were used to treat various ailments. It was believed that he had the power to heal both the body and the soul. It was used in various rituals and ceremonies, e.g. during weddings, funerals and fertility holidays.
Small -leaved lime – healing properties
The secret to the healing properties of the linden lies in its flowers, which abound in valuable ingredients. They are rich in flavonoids that have anti -inflammatory, antioxidant and strengthen blood vessels. Essential oils, give lip a characteristic smell and calm down. The tannins have an astringent and anti -inflammatory effect. And vitamins C and P strengthen immunity and improve circulation. The infusion of flowers protects the mucous membranes, soothing irritations and coughing. It takes off the sweat glands, reducing body temperature during colds and flu. Linden -linden can also support digestion and alleviate stomach ailments. It has a diuretic, supporting the cleansing of the body of toxins. Vitamin C contained in Lipa strengthens the body’s immunity, protecting against infections.
The use of linden
The most popular way to use linden is the infusion of its flowers. Perfect for colds, flu, cough, sore throat, stress and insomnia. Bathing with the addition of infusion has a relaxing, calming effect and soothes skin irritations. Linden honey is also popular, which has healing properties similar to linden flowers, and also has antibacterial properties. Linden flower infusion can also be used as a face tonic, soothing irritation and moisturizing skin. Linden flower extract is used in cosmetics such as creams, balms and shampoos, due to its soothing, moisturizing and anti -inflammatory properties. Linden flowers are also culinary use. They can be aromatized with cakes, creams and drinks.
How and when to collect linden flowers?
Collect linden flowers on a sunny day, away from busy roads and impurities. Dry in a shady and airy place. Store dried flowers in a tight container, in a dry and dark place.
Linden flowers syrup. A simple recipe
Linden flower syrup is a great addition to tea and other drinks. It also works as a coating for pancakes, waffles, ice cream and other desserts, but also as an aromatic component of cocktails and drinks. It is also a component of cocktails and drinks a natural remedy for colds and coughing.
To prepare the syrup, you need: 500 g of fresh linden flowers (or 250 g dried), 1 liter of water, 0.5 kg of sugar (you can use brown sugar or honey, but then the taste will be different), 1 lemon juice (optional, but adds freshness and helps with maintenance).
Preparation: If you use fresh flowers, gently clean them from possible insects and impurities. Do not rinse them so as not to lose the aroma. If you use dried flowers, make sure they are of good quality. Boil water in a large pot. Remove from heat and pour in linden flowers. Cover the pot and set aside for 24 hours. This will allow flowers to free all aroma and properties. After this time, strain the infusion through a thick sieve lined with gauze. Squeeze the flowers thoroughly to extract as much juice as possible. Pour the strained infusion into a clean pot. Add sugar (or honey) and lemon juice (if you use). Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved. Put the pot on low heat and cook the syrup uncovered, stirring occasionally until it thickens. It will take about 1 – 1.5 hours. The consistency of the syrup should be slightly thick, but remember that after cooling it will thicken. If you want the syrup to stay longer, you can pasteurize it. To do this, pour the hot syrup into scalded jars, turn them off and place them in a pot of water. Water should reach up to 3/4 of the height of the jars. Cook jars for 15-20 minutes.
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