Traditional Herbal Teas for Longevity and Wellness

Ikarians gather wild herbs from the island’s unpolluted mountains, forests, and meadows, and have long used them in teas for their health benefits. Some of the key herbs used in Ikaria’s tea include sage, oregano, thyme, mountain tea, rosemary, dittany of Crete, lemon balm, chamomile, and wild mint.

Sage is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and is beneficial for digestion and memory. Oregano, rich in antioxidants, aids digestion and has antimicrobial effects. Thyme supports respiratory health and strengthens the immune system. Mountain tea, packed with flavonoids, helps with colds, digestion, and stress. Rosemary improves circulation and cognitive function. Dittany of Crete, while more common on Crete, also grows in Ikaria, providing digestive benefits and boosting energy. Lemon balm is calming and aids sleep, while chamomile is soothing for digestion and sleep. Wild mint offers relief from headaches and aids digestion.

Drinking Ikaria’s tea is a daily tradition for Ikarians, often consumed in the morning or evening in place of coffee. This herbal brew is believed to lower blood pressure, improve heart health, reduce stress, boost immunity, aid digestion, prevent bloating, and even have anti-aging properties due to its high antioxidant content.