Greek Mountain Tea (tsai tou vounou) is made using the dried leaves and flowers of the sideritis syriaca plant. The plant grows wild on the mountainside on the Greek Island of Crete. Also known as Shepherd's Tea because Greek shepherds would use the plants to make a brewed tea while tending their flocks high in the hills.



The tea is delightfully pure and natural and is locally hand harvested here on the Greek Island of Crete without any artificial ingredients, colourings or flavourings. It is 100% organic and natural and is reputed by many Greek generations to be generally good for health and well-being. Ask any Greek Grandma the secret to good health and she’ll claim the magical tea as a ‘cure all’.

Scientists seem to be in agreement with those Yiayias! Research has indicated that the Greek Mountain Tea helps in the prevention of osteoporosis while its anti-oxidant properties aid in the prevention of cancer. The research also indicates that Greek Mountain Tea has a positive effect on almost anything that ails.

Traditionally, it is used in combating colds and flu, respiratory problems, aiding digestion, strengthening the immune system, and calming mild anxiety. It is also used as an anti-inflammatory and to reduce fever. To brew this wonderful tea simply pour boiling water over a few broken full stalks and dried leaves(including flowers). Allow to infuse for around 5 minutes. Either drink as is or add a slice of lemon, pure honey (preferably Crete honey) and/or cinnamon to make an interesting variation.

Dittany of Crete

Another herbal tea drunk by the Cretans is Dittany of Crete. It is known locally as eronda, which means love, and is renowned for its aphrodisiac properties. This special tea was popular in Minoan Crete and throughout Ancient Greece.



Native only to the mountains of Crete and also called dittany or dictamnus it is considered a highly therapeutic plant. Hippocrates recommended it for stomach and digestive system diseases, rheumatism, and arthritis and used it to regulate menses and to tone and heal. It was named after the mountain Dikti, the reputed birthplace of Zeus, where it grows wild. To brew this magical tea simply pour boiling water over a few stems and dried leaves and allow to infuse for around 5 minutes. Drink as it is or add a slice of lemon and pure honey
- Crete honey's

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