Mountain tea has been and remains the most popular herb for us Greeks in Greece and Cyprus.
Hippocrates recommended it as a tonic because of its high ferrum content. Dioscurides considered it a strong shield against colds.
Nowadays we know about its antihypertensive, antioxidant, antithrombotic activity, as well as its rich content of flavonoids that shield the circulatory and cardiovascular system.
In old times every house had mountain tea and it was the first decoction to prepare for the cold. Today it is slowly finding its place and scientifically among the beneficial beverages for the body.
Mountain tea belongs to the Lamiaceae family and to the genus Sideritis, which includes about 150 species, mainly native to the Mediterranean countries (Spain, Italy, Greece, Cyprus). Its scientific name is Sideritis spp.
Plants thrive at altitudes ranging from 500 to 2000 meters in dry stony or calcareous soils.
Therapeutic uses of mountain tea
It’s extremely effective in treating colds, nasal congestion, respiratory problems and persistent cough.
It relieves indigestion and stomachache.
It is a tonic and diuretic, helping in cases of kidney stones.
It is a powerful astringent and is used against diarrhea, colitis and colic.
It is digestive soothing, sweating, detoxifying, heating and spasmolytic for respiratory.
The genus Sideritis scardica has pharmacological properties such as anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antioxidant properties, such as green tea.
Scientific studies and research indicate that it can act proactively against cataracts, thrombi and hypertension.
It helps to fight against diseases of the capillaries and the heart, thanks to its flavonoid substances.
It has a relaxing and anxiolytic effect.
It can help prevent osteoporosis.
It helps with anemia thanks to the ferrum it contains.
It is a stimulant to the brain and muscles.
It strengthens the immune system.
It helps prevent cancer, thanks to the many antioxidants it contains.
It warms us and shields our health
Drink it as a hot drink (pour boiling water into one or two sprigs and allow 3 to 5 minutes to bring out its aroma and healing properties). We serve it plain, with honey or with honey and lemon. Mountain tea is ideal proposal for the cold winter days, warming our bodies and shielding our health.
