Basswood
- Tilia americana L.
- Tiliaceae
- Linden family
Common Names
 American basswood
American linden
Bast tree
Common lime
Lime tree
Linden
Linden flower
Spoonwood
Wycopy
Parts Usually Used
Flowers and leaves, inner bark
Description of Plant(s) and
Culture
The basswood tree reaches a height of up to 120 feet. The brownish-gray bark is perpendicularly, but not deeply, fissured. The cordate, serrate leaves are from 4-7 inches long have pointed tips and heart-shaped bases; clusters of yellow-white fragrant flowers (1/2 inch wide) with 5 sepals and petals and numerous stamens cohering in groups, grow on long stalks from narrow bracts, appear in June and August; they are followed by small round nutlets. The fruits or seeds are about the size and shape of a pea and are commonly called "monkey-nuts". Tree characterized by prominent winter buds and the lack of terminal bud; and for the pyramidal shape of the tree.
Other lindens, like the commonly planted European linden, can be used in the same way.
Where Found
Found in the eastern United States and in Canada; moist soil, in woods and forests, in uplands and valleys from Quebec to North Dakota and south to North Carolina and Oklahoma. Also planted in cities of this area.
Medicinal Properties
Diaphoretic, stomachic Bark: emollient
Legends, Myths and Stories
In Europe, many legends and superstitions are centered around these trees. Linden wood was used for carving sacred works of art, and the linden tree, which was the village tree, played an important role in the life of early Europeans. Thus it was only natural that special curative power was ascribed to these medicinal trees.
Among the Germanic peoples the linden was a "sacred" tree for people in love, the tree that brought fertility and prosperity. In the Middle Ages, people carved images of the Virgin Mary and figures of the saints from linden wood, calling the wood lignum sacrum, sacred wood.
Uses
Used as a home remedy for colds, flu, coughs, fever, headaches, epilepsy, indigestion, and sore throats. The inner bark contains mucilaginous materials and makes a soothing application for skin irritations, boils, wounds, sores, and burns. A popular continental herb tea. Used in cosmetic preparations.
Formulas or Dosages
Bark, leaves and flowers, dried in the shade.
Infusion: steep 1 tsp. flowers or leaves in 1 cup water. Take 1-2 cups a day.
Warning
Frequent consumption of flower tea may cause heart damage.
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