It is common to experience some form of anxiety at one time or another. You may become nervous or apprehensive before something you perceive as challenging, such as public speaking. Medicinal herbs such as linden leaf are used to soothe anxiety. However, it is important to consult your health care provider before using linden leaf for anxiety, especially if you are diagnosed with a clinical anxiety disorder.
Anxiety
Anxiety is a general term used to describe a physical or emotional reaction to stress. This can be as mild as feeling nervous before a test or as severe as avoiding going out in public due to anxious feelings about social interactions. Mild anxiety generally does not interfere with your life. However, moderate-to-severe anxiety can affect your work, home and social life. A qualified health care professional should treat severe anxiety.
Linden
Linden belongs to the lime tree species of plants native to Europe. The botanical name is Tilia. The flowers and leaves are the parts commonly used as medicine. There are a wide variety of linden trees. Most herbal formulas use the two most common linden plants, which are tilia cordata or tilia platyphyllos. Linden has sedative qualities, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. However, you should keep in mind that no human clinical data is currently available that documents this.
Dosage
Linden is available as tea, liquid and tincture. There is no recommended dosage due to lack of clinical data; typical doses vary based on the form used. You can purchase prepackaged linden tea or you can make your own, steeping 1 to 2 tsp. of linden leaves in hot water for 20 minutes. Drinking 1 to 3 cups daily is typical. The typical dose of standardized liquid extract is 3 to 4 ml per day and 4 to 10 ml per day for tincture.
Safety
All herbs have the capacity to cause side effects and adverse health reactions. Some individuals are allergic to linden and may experience an itchy rash known as uticaria or hives. Linden may have diuretic effects, which increases your dehydration risk when combined with diuretic medications. You should consult your doctor if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications or have a current medical condition. Take linden only after consulting your doctor.
