Pärnkärna

Pärnkärna refers to the seed of the linden tree, also known as the lime tree or basswood tree. These seeds are small, typically oval or kidney-shaped, and encased in a hard shell. Linden trees belong to the genus Tilia and are native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere. The seeds are produced in a small, nut-like fruit, often clustered with a characteristic wing-like bract that aids in wind dispersal.

Historically, pärnkärna have been utilized in various ways, though their significance has diminished with modern alternatives. In some traditional practices, they were roasted and ground to produce a coffee-like beverage, appreciated for its mild flavor. The oil extracted from the seeds has also been explored for its potential cosmetic and medicinal properties, though large-scale commercial use is not widespread. While not a primary food source for humans today, they can be consumed by various wildlife. The linden tree itself is more widely recognized for its fragrant flowers, which are used to make herbal tea with calming properties. The pärnkärna, therefore, represents a smaller, less prominent part of the linden tree's overall utility.