Notes on Linden
By ANA
Linden’s deliciously fragrant perfume permeates the air, especially in early summer, beckoning us to enjoy her beneficial properties for body, mind, and spirit.
Linden is one of three English names for the tree genus Tilia (also known as lime and basswood)
She can be found in Europe, North America and Asia
Often thought of as an ornamental tree because of her symmetrical growth habit, people are often unaware of her medicinal properties.
With her sweet odor reaching out through the air providing a calming yet uplifting presence, Linden’s aroma alone can be healing.
But also, her flowers and leaves can be brewed as a gentle tea, offering nervine properties. She’s gentle enough for everyone in the family, making her the perfect remedy at the end of a stressful day.
Linden flower tea has a lovely smell and flavor, and when sipped before bed can help to relax the body while soothing a hyperactive mind.
Because of her nervine properties, she’s also helpful in soothing muscle tension, hyperactivity
As I’ve pointed out before, the gut and the nervous system are intertwined. In fact, the gut has its own nervous system, called the enteric nervous system, with 90% of our seratonin and 50% dopamine made in the gut. Therefore, when we calm ourselves down, our digestion also benefits.
Other symptoms people have used Linden for include menstural and abdominal cramps as well as circulation.
So next time you notice this big, beautiful tree, remember that she offers much more than her beauty.
The best way to experience Linden is to buy her dried bulk flowers from a company that ethically sources their medicinal plants. Mountain Rose Herbs is one of my favorite.
Let it go
by Dana Faulds
"Let go of the ways you thought life would unfold, the holding of plans or dreams or expectations – Let it all go.
Save your strength to swim with the tide.
The choice to fight what is here before you now will only result in struggle, fear, and desperate attempts to flee from the very energy you long for.
Let go. Let it all go and flow with the grace that washes through your days whether you received it gently or with all your quills raised to defend against invaders.
Take this on faith; the mind may never find the explanations that it seeks, but you will move forward nonetheless.
Let go, and the wave’s crest will carry you to unknown shores, beyond your wildest dreams or destinations.
Let it all go and find the place of rest and peace, and certain transformation.”