Comprehensive review of Tilia L.: phytochemical profiles, edible value, therapeutic potentials, and ecological significance

The genus Tilia belongs to the Malvaceae family. There are approximately 400 species. The native range of this genus is Temp, Northern Hemisphere to Mexico. The Malvaceae family is a large family in plant classification and includes 245 accepted genera, of which the genus Tilia is one. Phylogenetic relationships and genetic variation of the genus were studied using simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers, microsatellite markers, and Illumina sequencing techniques. Tilia L. has an important economic value. Flavonoids, terpenoids, phenols, organic acids, and other metabolites have been isolated and extracted from the flowers, shoots, leaves, and bracts of different species of Tilia L., and phytochemical studies have shown that these biologically active components can be anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anticancer, anti-anxiety, depressive, and antioxidant and have a protective effect against nerve damage. Tilia L. flowers are fragrant and are a good source of honey plants. As one of the world's five main street trees, on the lightening heavy metal adsorption, Tilia L. plays an important role in environmental pollution. Studies on landscaping, urban environments, and arboreal applications comprehensively highlight the ecological significance of the species. A fraction of the species in the genus Tilia is on the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) endangered list and requires immediate attention. This review will synthesize the research progress on the genus Tilia from multiple perspectives, including a brief overview of Tilia L., analysis of its genetic and phylogenetic relationships, exploration of its edible and medicinal value, examination of the pharmacological actions of isolated metabolites, and considerations for its ecological protection and conservation.