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

The genus <i>Tilia</i> 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 <i>Tilia</i> is one. Phylogenetic relationships and genetic variation of the genus were studied using simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers, microsatellite markers, and Illumina sequencing techniques. <i>Tilia</i> L<i>.</i> 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 <i>Tilia</i> L<i>.</i>, 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. <i>Tilia</i> 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, <i>Tilia</i> 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 <i>Tilia</i> 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 <i>Tilia</i> from multiple perspectives, including a brief overview of <i>Tilia</i> 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.