Sideritis
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[edit] The Plant
Sideritis Syriaca is referred to in Greece as "tsai tou vounou' or “mountain tea.” The plant is sometimes referred to as Ironwort, but the variety that grows in Greece is a different species. The Greek variety thrives on rocky slopes at elevations over 3,200 feet. These plants are wild, hardy flowering perennials that have adapted to survive with little water and little soil.
This plant has been referenced in the Materia Medica written in the 1st Century A.D. This book was written by Dioscorides, a doctor who lived in Rome during the time of Nero. Dioscorides traveled the Mediterranean with the Roman legions, where he studied the medicinal benefits of the plants he would encounter.
[edit] The Tea
Very popular in Greece, the plant is used to prepare tea most often in winter to alleviate aches and pains, as well as, the common cold.
[edit] The Health Benefits
Scientists recently suggested that Greek grandmothers who promote mountain tea as a panacea for most illnesses are remarkably close to the truth, as new tests have proved the drink helps in the prevention of cancer and osteoporosis. Studies indicate it has a positive effect on almost anything that ails but, most notably, it is used for colds, respiratory problems, digestion, the immune system, mild anxiety, and as an anti-oxidant. It is also used as an anti-inflammatory and to reduce fever.
[edit] Links
http://maillists.uci.edu/mailman/public/mgsa-l/2006-April/006901.html
http://greekfood.about.com/od/mezethesdrinks/a/tsaitouvounou.htm
http://gogreece.about.com/od/eatinganddrinking/g/greektea.htm
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