The Greek aromatic and therapeutic plants have been known since ancient times for their soothing and rejuvenating qualities.
For Hippocrates, the Father of Medicine, herbs laid the basis for all medicine.
The Ancient Greeks rubbed their table with spearmint before their meal. According to Greek mythology, the Gods turned Helen of Troy’s tears into thyme during the Trojan War. The Roman soldiers used to perfume their bath with thyme, which invigorated them, while sage was used in various treatments. Hippocrates, Dioscorides and Galenus, the great physicians of ancient times, made a lot of references to its therapeutic effects.
Oregano was considered a present from Aphrodite and of course a symbol of beauty.
Last but not least is the wonderful but unappreciated Greek volunteer mountain tea, sideritis.
Herbs’ nutritional and soothing value is scientifically acknowledged by numerous research papers from universities in Greece and abroad. As infusions, they should be consumed with caution and with the doctor’s consent, especially by pregnant women and those on medication.
