The Value and Culture of Basswood

Economic Value

The flowers of the lime tree contain nectar glands and have a fragrant smell, making it a good source of nectar. The branches and bark of the lime tree can be used to make ropes, artificial cotton and sacks, and can also be used as guide ropes for gunpowder. And the flowers of the linden tree can be used to extract aromatic oil. The trunk of the lime tree is light, soft and white, and is a very high-quality wood. The texture of the basswood tree is relatively fine and can be used to make plywood, wooden cabinets or for wood carving. Some people living in forest areas also use it to make cutting boards. The material of the basswood is light, soft and delicate and generally does not deform.

Edible value

Linden honey is a very precious honey, crystal clear, sweet and delicious. The crystals of linden honey will become snow-white and crystal clear, with a unique flavor, so it is also called white honey. Linden honey also has great medicinal value. It can moisten the lungs and relieve coughs, replenish blood and relieve pain, and increase appetite. It was used as a royal tribute during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Linden flower tea is quite popular in Europe. It is made from dried linden flowers. However, because linden flowers are difficult to collect, the amount used as tea is very small. It has a calming effect.

culture

The linden tree is a fruit tree native to the Czech Republic. In the minds of the Germans, the lime tree is regarded as the goddess of love and luck, Feria, and they have a cultural tradition of gathering under the lime tree. Moreover, the lime tree is also known as the "court tree", which is the village court of the Germanic people. The linden tree is considered a feminine, yin plant. In short, the lime tree was considered a sacred plant by the Germans.