Sideritis scardica / Sideritis raeseri
Mountain tea belongs to the genus Sideritis, the name in Greek referring to the “one who contains iron “. According to Theophrastus the plant was named so because of its property to heal wounds from iron objects. In Greece, Sideritis has ten endemic species and is one of the most popular, if not the most popular folk herb in traditional medicine. The excellent quality of Greek mountain tea is reflected in its colour and unique aroma.
A decaffeinated tea that the Greeks consider a panacea. Significant research carried out confirms its popular use for the prevention of colds, flu and allergies, the treatment of indigestion and flatulence as well as an analgesic aid. Diterpenes, flavonoids and ethers are found in almost all species and are the main compounds responsible for the antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of the herb.
Mountain tea against cold weather
The high antibacterial and antiviral activities of the herb, all aiding in cases of cold and flu. EMA recommends the herbal decoction for cough, colds and also for mild gastrointestinal disorders, an action that could be associated with the anti-inflammatory activity of flavonoids that it contains.
