Botanical Profile
The small-leaved lime is a traditional European tree whose flowers are described as Tiliae flos in monographs. Lime flowers are among the classic floral drugs of European herbal culture.
Tilia cordata Mill. is a deciduous tree with heart-shaped leaves and fragrant yellowish flowers. Botanically it can be distinguished from Tilia platyphyllos, although monographs frequently treat both species and their mixtures under Tiliae flos.
Phytochemistry
Phytochemically, lime flowers are associated with flavonoids, mucilage, phenolic acids, tannins and traces of essential oil. The combination of floral, mucilage and flavonoid profiles shapes their phytobotanical character.
Traditional Uses
The EMA/HMPC monograph Community herbal monograph on Tilia cordata Miller, Tilia platyphyllos Scop., Tilia × vulgaris Heyne or their mixtures, flos (EMA/HMPC/337066/2011) describes traditional-use contexts for symptoms of the common cold and mild nervous tension.
Current Research
Modern research investigates flavonoid profiles, mucilage contexts, phenolic compounds and aromatic floral constituents. This research is to be understood as scientific context.
Sources
- Community herbal monograph on Tilia cordata Miller, Tilia platyphyllos Scop., Tilia × vulgaris Heyne or their mixtures, flos
- Assessment report on Tilia cordata Miller, Tilia platyphyllos Scop., Tilia × vulgaris Heyne or their mixtures, flos
- Tiliae flos / Lime flower
Notice
The information presented in this botanical profile has been compiled to the best of our knowledge and belief from botanical, phytochemical, historical and scientific sources. It is intended solely for general professional information and initial orientation.
The content does not constitute an assurance of specific properties, effects, qualities or possible uses of products or extracts. In particular, it does not constitute a guarantee, a statement of suitability, or a statement regarding marketability, permissibility or usability in specific applications or markets.
Assessment of the suitability of a raw material or extract for a particular intended use, as well as compliance with all applicable legal and regulatory requirements, is the sole responsibility of the respective user.