Tilia platyphyllos
Tilia platyphyllos · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Tilia platyphyllos, commonly known as the large-leaved lime, is a versatile botanical species valued for its diverse therapeutic potential. The plant's leaves and flowers contain a rich profile of bioactive compounds, including chlorogenic acid, coumarins, fraxin, and procyanidins. Due to these specific chemical constituents, extracts are often utilized to address health concerns such as coughs and obesity. Additionally, its natural sedative properties make it a popular choice for promoting relaxation and sleep. Understanding the complex chemistry of this plant highlights its significant role in traditional herbal medicine.
- Synonyms
- Not available
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Malvaceae
- Distribution
- Asia-Tropical
- Plant Parts
- Flower · Leaf
Classification
Common Names
Tilia platyphyllos is a distinguished tree species known widely by its English common name, the Large-Leaved Lime. Beyond its standard nomenclature, the plant carries several unique traditional names that reflect its cultural significance. In certain linguistic contexts, it is referred to as Eurwernen or Gwaglwyfen. It also holds the specific designations of Pisgen and Pisgwydd in other regional dialects. These diverse names illustrate the rich variety of ways this beautiful lime tree is identified across different communities.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Taxonomy
Tilia platyphyllos is a fascinating botanical specimen that belongs to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast biological group, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida. The plant is further organized into the order Malvales, showcasing its specific evolutionary lineage. It holds a prominent place within the family Malvaceae, a group known for various distinct characteristics. Ultimately, this species is defined by its membership in the genus Tilia, which distinguishes it from other woody plants.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Tilia |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Tilia platyphyllos exhibits a widespread distribution across the Asia-Temperate region, showcasing remarkable adaptability to various environments. Its presence is notably concentrated within the Caucasus and Transcaucasus, where it thrives in specific local climates. The species also extends its reach into Central Asia, with established populations found in Uzbekistan. Furthermore, its range stretches through Western Asia, encompassing the diverse landscapes of both Iran and Türkiye. This broad geographic footprint highlights the plant's significant ecological importance throughout these diverse territories.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Tilia platyphyllos is a magnificent tree characterized by its robust and self-supporting growth form. This species reaches impressive proportions in the natural landscape, often soaring to significant heights. Typically, these trees stand at a minimum of 25 meters, showcasing their strength and longevity. Many specimens mature even further, with many reaching a minimum height of 30 meters as they establish themselves. Ultimately, this impressive species can attain a maximum height of up to 40 meters.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Tilia platyphyllos is a medicinal plant characterized by a diverse profile of specialized metabolites found within its bracts and flowers. Detailed metabolomic studies have confirmed that this species contains a variety of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids and procyanidins. Additionally, the plant is a source of quinic acid derivatives, specifically chlorogenic acid, which contributes to its complex chemical makeup. Research also highlights the presence of coumarins, such as the specific compound fraxin, which may become more prominent during certain phenological stages. Understanding these chemical relationships is essential for ensuring the quality and therapeutic efficacy of the plant's medicinal extracts.
Conditions
Tilia platyphyllos serves as a versatile medicinal plant with a wide range of therapeutic applications. Scientific evidence suggests that this species can be used to treat alcoholic liver disease (ALD) by providing hepatoprotective effects. It is also recognized for its ability to treat common respiratory ailments such as colds, coughs, and the flu. Furthermore, the extract from the large-leaved lime has demonstrated potential in treating obesity through the inhibition of pancreatic lipase. These diverse medicinal properties highlight the significant pharmacological importance of Tilia platyphyllos.
Preparations
Parts used
Tilia platyphyllos is a versatile medicinal plant that contains several biologically active components used in phytotherapy. Research indicates that the flavonoid composition of this species varies significantly depending on whether the flower or the leaf is being analyzed. Specifically, studies utilizing HPLC techniques have successfully mapped the unique chemical fingerprints found in both the flowers and the leaves of Tilia platyphyllos. These distinct profiles are essential for ensuring quality assurance and preventing the adulteration of medicinal crude drugs. Furthermore, extracts from the flowers have even been investigated for their potential antiviral properties against the influenza A virus.