Comparisons
Linden or Elderflower?
Linden (Tilia) and elderflower (Sambucus nigra) are assessed by the EMA as traditional herbal teas for cold symptoms. The main differences are the age limits and additional uses. The table is built from the sourced cards of both herbs.
| Aspect | LindenTilia cordata, Tilia platyphyllos | ElderflowerSambucus nigra |
|---|---|---|
| Strongest evidence | T Traditional use | T Traditional use |
| Needs | Immunity, Sleep, Stress & Mood | Immunity |
| Form | Dried Herb & Tea | Dried Herb & Tea |
| How to use | Pour 150 ml of boiling water over 1.5 g of dried linden flowers. | Pour 150 ml of boiling water over 2–5 g of dried elderflowers. |
| Pregnancy | Avoid | Avoid |
| Breastfeeding | Avoid | Avoid |
| Recommended minimum age | From age 4 | From age 12 |
| Drug interactions | No recorded interactions | No recorded interactions |
| Duration limit | For a cold, see a doctor if no better within 1 week | See a doctor if no better within 1 week |
Which one, when?
Linden
Traditionally drunk for cold symptoms and mild stress. For colds it can be used from age 4, for stress from age 12.
Full card →Elderflower
Traditionally drunk for the early symptoms of a cold. Not recommended under 12; the assessment covers only the flower, not the berries or leaves.
Full card →Good to know
- With either, see a doctor if there is no improvement within a week, and at once with shortness of breath, high fever or pus-like phlegm.
- Neither is recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Sources
- Community herbal monograph on Tilia cordata Miller, Tilia platyphyllos Scop., Tilia x vulgaris Heyne or their mixtures, flosEMA HMPC · 2012 · MonographSource accessed:
- European Union herbal monograph on Sambucus nigra L., flos – Revision 1EMA HMPC · 2018 · MonographSource accessed: