Greek Mountain Tea – Sideritis scardica L. – Herba Organica

Description

Dried Greek Mountain Tea (Sideritis scardica L.) Herbal Tea & Infusion Ingredient

Greek Mountain Tea Herba Organica presents carefully collected and dried aerial parts of Sideritis scardica L., a perennial plant traditionally cultivated in the mountainous regions of Greece and the Balkans. Celebrated for its slender, aromatic stems and soft, velvety leaves, Greek Mountain Tea has a long-standing presence in Mediterranean herbcraft. Each plant is carefully selected to preserve its natural texture, colour, and distinctive floral-herbal aroma, making it ideal for herbal infusions, blended teas, and creative culinary applications.

Historical and Botanical Background

Greek Mountain Tea (Sideritis scardica L.) is native to the high-altitude regions of Greece, Bulgaria, and surrounding Balkan territories. Known locally as “Tsai tou vounou”, this perennial herb grows in rocky, sun-exposed areas, producing thin, woody stems, soft, grey-green leaves, and delicate yellow-green flowers. Its botanical features and high-altitude growth contribute to the plant’s aromatic properties and distinctive flavour profile.

Historically, Greek Mountain Tea has been enjoyed in Mediterranean households for centuries. It was traditionally used as a warm herbal infusion to support digestion, soothe minor respiratory discomforts, and promote general wellness. Local practices included consuming it to help with mild colds, seasonal discomforts, and occasional digestive irregularities. Its presence in regional culture is reflected in everyday rituals, social gatherings, and herbal traditions across Greece and the Balkans.

Characteristics of Greek Mountain Tea

Once dried, Greek Mountain Tea exhibits slender stems, soft leaves, and small flower clusters with a delicate, velvety texture. Its aroma combines subtle floral, herbal, and slightly earthy notes, producing a mild yet fragrant infusion. The plant’s natural integrity is maintained through gentle drying, ensuring consistent preparation in teas, blends, and culinary infusions.

Herba Organica’s Greek Mountain Tea is cut into manageable portions for easy steeping. Its durable structure allows for both quick infusions and longer brewing, providing versatility for hot or cold preparations.

Ingredients

Dried Greek Mountain Tea (Sideritis scardica L.) – 100% natural, carefully collected and gently dried to preserve its floral-herbal aroma, delicate texture, and subtle flavour. Free from additives, preservatives, artificial colours, or flavourings, this pure botanical maintains the authentic qualities of the herb.

Why Choose Herba Organica Greek Mountain Tea

Naturally Dried, Carefully Prepared

Herba Organica Greek Mountain Tea is dried using gentle methods that maintain the plant’s natural aroma, texture, and flavour profile. The result is a high-quality dried herb that retains its botanical integrity and adaptability for various preparations.

Versatile and Adaptable

Greek Mountain Tea is appreciated for its flexibility in hot or cold infusions. It can be steeped alone for a straightforward aromatic beverage or combined with other herbs and flowers to create layered, aromatic blends.

Cultural and Culinary Significance

Greek Mountain Tea has deep roots in Mediterranean traditions, often enjoyed as a soothing daily infusion. Its mild herbal-floral flavour has been incorporated into teas, herbal blends, and culinary recipes, providing a gentle aromatic experience that bridges traditional and contemporary uses.

How to Prepare Greek Mountain Tea

Herbal Infusion

Place 1–2 teaspoons (approx. 2–3 g) of dried Greek Mountain Tea in 200–250 ml of freshly boiled water. Cover and steep for 8–12 minutes. This method extracts the herb’s delicate aroma and subtle herbal notes, creating a soothing and fragrant tea.

Herbal Decoction

For a stronger extraction, simmer Greek Mountain Tea in water for 10–15 minutes. Decoctions are suitable for creating a fuller-bodied herbal base for layered infusions or culinary preparations.

Creative Herbal Blend with Herba Organica Products

Combine Greek Mountain Tea with dried Lemon Balm and Rose Petals. Steep for 10–12 minutes to create a mild, aromatic infusion with soft floral notes and subtle herbal undertones. This simple combination demonstrates the versatility of Herba Organica products in custom herbal blends.

Culinary and Creative Uses

Culinary Applications

Dried Greek Mountain Tea can be infused into hot water as a base for herbal beverages, or added to soups, and syrups to introduce a subtle herbal aroma. It can also be blended into spice mixes, herbal salts, or used as a fragrant garnish for culinary creations.

Cold Infusions

Steep Greek Mountain Tea in cold water for several hours to produce a refreshing, mild herbal beverage. Adding dried apple, pear, or hibiscus can introduce subtle fruitiness and aromatic layers for a unique cold drink.

Creative Serving Ideas

• Steep Greek Mountain Tea alone or with dried hibiscus flowers for a floral herbal infusion.

• Combine with sage leaf and lavender flower for a layered, aromatic tea.

• Simmer in water to create a decoction base for syrups, herbal broths, or culinary infusions.

• Include in dried botanical arrangements or herb sachets for texture and subtle fragrance.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and strong odours. After opening, keep in an airtight container or jar to maintain aroma, texture, and usability over time.

Important Information

The description and any information provided about this product are for informational purposes only and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease, nor to replace professional medical advice. For official UK guidance on the safe use of herbal products, see the NHS page. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking any medication or have a medical condition, please consult a qualified healthcare professional before use. Keep out of reach of children.