Linden Honey (Basswood)

The small-leaved Linden tree which grows in moist, clay soil and has clusters of small, yellow-white fragrant flowers hanging from slender stems, is common throughout northern Germany. At the height of blossoming in a Linden grove or on a street lined with Linden trees, the ambrosial aroma of the flowers surrounds you and draws bees from miles around. The White Basswood is known as the Bee tree because of the generous amounts of nectar produced by its drooping clusters of flowers.

Linden honey is one of those honey varieties that will completely change the misconception of those who think that honey is no more than just sugared water. It has a light yellow colour and a very distinctive yet delicate fresh woody scent. Its aroma is described as mint, balsamic, menthol. It has a low acidity, is medium sweet and sometimes has a light bitterness. It has a persistent aftertaste and is slightly astringent. The crystallization rate is medium to fast with fine to medium sized crystals. Other aromatic notes: spicy-thyme, mentholated, geranium, hay, phenolic. It goes well with lemon sherbet and herbal teas.

Because of its sedative and antiseptic qualities, it is a favourite for many people using it as a bedtime treat. It is recommended in cases of anxiety and insomnia, whereby honey can be combined with a bath of linden blossoms before sleep. Linden honey is also used in the treatment of colds, cough and bronchitis.