Olympus Mountain Tea (Sideritis scardica)

Sideritis scardica is endemic to the Balkan Peninsula, where it is found at high altitudes in rocky mountainous areas. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species considers it as “Near Threatened”. However, the last decade there is a effort put forward by most of the countries in the Balkan Peninsula for its preservation. In Greece, the population of Sideritis scardica is above average and increases slowly, but continuously. Oftentimes, it is called Olympus Mountain Tea, as the main cultivations are located at the home of the twelve Olympian Gods.

In Greek the word “sideritis” is literally translated as “he who is made of or has the iron”. The reason it has this name is that it was capable of healing wounds caused by iron weapons during battles. The ancient famous doctor Dioscorides has written about this herb. Cretans were using this herb for colds and respiratory diseases.

The beverage of mountain tea was widely known in Greece. It is hard to believe that no extensive scientific studies had been done on it, although, the last decade there is vivid interest for it and there are some really good results for its properties. Oftentimes is referred as a superfood. It has been confirmed that mountain tea has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and analgesic effects. Also, the extract of this herb contributes to the prevention of osteoporosis!

Mountain tea is not used for cooking. It is nevertheless one of the most famous Greek herbs (alongside chamomile), that Greeks use for hot beverages. It is delicious and aromatic and you can try drinking it with or without honey.