Hellenic Herbs

In ancient Hellas, thyme was a symbol of courage and protection. Dried thyme leaves were often placed beneath a pillow to ward off nightmares, while women would give it to warriors before they headed off into battle. 

Thyme gets its name from the Hellenic word “Θυμός” (thymós) originally meaning "smoke". It was burned as incense by the ancient Hellenes to restore strength and clarity to the mind and to clear the air of illnesses and diseases. Indeed, thyme has been proven to effectively neutralize dangerous airborne bacteria and microbes.

Thyme’s active ingredients thymol and carvacrol, have potent antibacterial, antifungal, and antispasmodic properties and can be used to heal wounds, prevent infection, suppresses cough fits and aid digestion. Thyme is also considered to be a natural diuretic, boosting kidney function without upsetting the delicate electrolyte balance.

Krokos Kozanis is a variety of red saffron grown in the village of Krokos in Western Macedonia. Saffron is a spice with variations cultivated in regions worldwide but was first produced in Hellas, specifically in Crete during the Late Bronze Age by the Minoans.

Krokos Kozanis is considered one of the best varieties in the world both in quality and aroma. Rich in vitamin B12, lycopene, zeaxanthin, alpha-beta carotene, vitamin C, iron, potassium and magnesium it has a wide range of benefits for the body. 

Krokos can enhance brain function and memory and can have a beneficial effect on people who suffer from dementia or Alzheimer’s. Krokos is also considered a natural antidepressant and has a powerful set of anti-aging properties.

Hellenic mountain tea is a naturally caffeine-free herbal tea infusion made from the dried flowers, leaves and stems of the Sideritis plant, which flourishes in the mountains of Hellas. The word “sideritis” translates to “he who is made of iron”, and was given that name due to its extensive use by the ancient Hellenes to heal wounds caused by iron weapons during battles. 

Sideritis was also used as a toning drink and both the ancient Hellene botanist Dioscurides and the philosopher Theophrastus hailed its benefits for the immune and respiratory systems.

Recent studies have found that Hellenic mountain tea has very potent antioxidant properties and can help prevent the growth of cancer cells. Sideritis can also help lower blood sugar and protect against Alzheimer's disease and osteoporosis. 

Sage is considered a sacred herb since antiquity, a salvaging and saving herb also referred to as Faskomilo or φασκόμηλο.   Sage has a long history of use as a medicinal plant. It has a specific action on the digestive system and is used for upset stomachs and other digestive complaints. Because it has a slight bitter quality, it is also used to stimulate the appetite because it encourages the release of your body’s digestive enzymes. In Ancient Hellas, Hippocrates used it for lung diseases and gynecological concerns. Dioscurides used it as a diuretic and to stop both internal and external bleeding.

Oregano, though an herb used in many cuisines around the world, was originally grown in ancient Hellas. The ancient Hellenes believed it was created by the Goddess Aphrodite, who wanted it to be a symbol of joy growing in her garden. Indeed, the word “oregano” means “joy of the mountains” ( from the  Hellenic words oros, for “mountain”, and ganos, for “joy”).

Fresh or dried, oregano has significant health benefits. Packed with antioxidants, oregano can help prevent cell damage and aid in cancer prevention. Additionally, oregano has powerful antibacterial properties and can help fight viral infections, soothe throat irritation, reduce the build-up of mucus and phlegm and suppress coughing fits when consumed as a tea.