Cretan Herbs and their benefits

 Crete has a rich history of using aromatic herbs. According to botanists, Crete possesses one of the most diverse and fascinating ecosystems in Europe, with several species found nowhere else in the world. Many herbs have been utilized as medicines in Crete since ancient times. Herbs have been credited by numerous ancient authors for their miraculous curative powers. The majority of Crete's extraordinary herbs are sourced from the island's steep mountains, where they are harvested by expert collectors before being dried in natural conditions and packaged in state-of-the-art facilities.

Oregano (Rigani)

The harvesting season for the trendy "Rigani" is during June and July. It has white blossoms that smell sweet and spicy. It's out there, somewhere, among the rocks and the sunshine. It is second only to thyme in importance to bees in the context of beekeeping. Grilled fish and pork are especially delicious when seasoned with this herb. Once upon a time, oregano harvesting was a major source of money for the country folk. It has been used for healing purposes since ancient times. As an antiseptic, it is used to treat everything from toothaches to stomachaches. Perfumers make extensive use of its oil.

Thyme

Blue flowers appear during June and July. It's a fantastic plant for beekeepers since it yields thyme honey, the pickiest and costliest kind of honey. Thyme can be used as a disinfectant, diuretic, parasite treatment, and fever reducer. Toothpaste manufacturers also make use of its essential oil. Flavoring meat and fish is its primary application in the kitchen.

Rosemary (Dentrolvano)

Dentrolvano has been used as a beverage in the treatment of headaches and migraines before. Scientific experts agreed that regular use was best for preventing scalp hair loss. It has antimicrobial and antiseptic properties and is a potent traffic stimulant and sleep aid.

Laurel (Dáfni)

There are a lot of people who don't understand the value of this plant because they don't know anything about its qualities. Its tea is applied to areas of the body with rheumatism or muscular contusions, and it was also used to thicken hair. It's great for helping your stomach work as it should and ward off indigestion.

Mint (Mènta)

One of the most significant Cretan herbs, it blooms in July and August and is harvested at that time. It helps with digestion, nerve pain, and sleeplessness. Its potent aroma and flavor make it a popular addition to desserts like ice cream and fruit compotes, as well as savory dishes like salads.

Matzourana

It is harvested in the same time frame as it blooms, in July and August. It has a pleasant aroma and can be found in many different applications, including medicine, food, and fragrance. It has been used for treating nerve diseases for thousands of years, much like thyme. It works wonderfully against the flu, too. It is most commonly consumed as a hot beverage.

Diktamus

The Persistent Diktamus Crete's native herb has been utilized as a hemostatic and wound healer since ancient times. Hippocrates also claims it has curative effects on the stomach. It is reported that animals will rub their wounds on the plant to speed up the healing process. The fact that it thrives solely on cliff faces makes harvesting it a perilous endeavor. In the summer is when it blooms and is harvested. Beverages are another common usage for the plant.

Faskomilo

Aromatic and widely used, it is one of Crete's favorite plants. It has purple-blue flowers that bloom in May and June. The restorative benefits of this herb date back to ancient times. It's a common ingredient for seasoning meats and other proteins.

Malotira

One of the mountain teas that is famous across Greece. It's a very significant herbage plant that thrives in arid and desolate areas all over the mountain range. It is gathered in July, right after it blooms. The capacity to heal wounds inflicted by metallic instruments, such as swords, was commonly known as "Sideritis" in ancient times. Named "drag for sickness" during Venetian control, it has stuck ever since. The decoction is used to treat eustachian tube inflammation, as a diuretic, and as a cold remedy.   

The Cretans and, more generally, the people of the Mediterranean who use Cretan herbs in their daily lives enjoy excellent health. Cretans have learned to use nature's bounty to their advantage, whether in beverages or meals. During your time in Crete, please take advantage of these presents.