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The past year we have been on the lookout for hand-picked whole leaf herbal teas, and we are excited to announce that we found something absolutely unique! We are proudly introducing our Organic Greek Mountain Tea.
You could say that most herbs are tonics. To be specific, a herb is recognized as a tonic if it has been used over centuries and is a medicinal source to the mind, body, and spirit. Therefore, herbal tonics are by definition herbs that safely promote one’s health and healthy ageing through regular consumption. Tonics are particularly effective because they teach the body over time. Superior herbs are a source of true human empowerment.
Tonic herbs are gentle and nourishing and are the best to take in your daily cup of tea (our absolute favourites are our Whole Hibiscus Flowers and Greek Mountain Tea).
Sideritis species are endemic not only to Greece but also to the broader Mediterranean world, the Balkans and even the Middle East and Central Asia. Sideritis Scardica is also called Pirin or Olympus Tea and is native to the region of Mount Olympus in Greece.
Mountain Tea (Sideritis Scardica), also known as Sheperd's Tea or Tsai Tou Vounou is consumed daily in Greece as a healthy refreshment. The herb grows wild in the highlands of Greece.
The term ”Sideritis” comes from the name used by ancient Greeks for this herb, meaning “that which contains iron”. Theophrastus, the father of botany, has written that Sideritis, was so named because of its property to heal wounds from iron objects. Notable ancient fans of the herb include Hippocrates, Aristotle and Dioscorides.
In ancient Greece, Sideritis was used as medicine since it is perfect for sore throats or the common cold. Many of Shepherd’s Tea’s numerous health benefits come from its antioxidants and essential oils.
Our Greek Mountain Tea is grown at about 1000 metres in small organic eco-farms on the slopes of the Rhodope Mountains in northern Greece. The stems are carefully picked by hand and dried.
This tea works great in herbal infusions, blended with leafy, flowery herbs of a similar nature such as sage. Its aromatic properties combine well with herbs of the mint family. Due to its fragrant aroma, it can also be used as a cooking herb to soups and stews. Greek Mountain Tea is a rather mild herb, like Camomile, and as such can be used liberally.
The pale green leaves and yellow flowers of the Greek Mountain Tea are rich in essential oils and its blossoms and leaves set free the scent of fresh herbs with a hint of lemon when infused. Drink this tea hot or cold, sweetened or unsweetened, it won’t leave you disappointed.
As always, take a moment to enjoy the aromas of the dried plant before making your cup of tea. The scent of the sweet sage will trick you into believing that you’re in a Mediterranean restaurant!
Use 1 heaped tablespoon of loose leaves per cup or a large handful of tea leaves for every litre of water. For hot brew, break apart the leaves and the flowers and put them in a strainer. Then, place the strainer in a cup and pour boiling water over it. Steep for about 6 minutes, your hot cup of tea should be ready. Sheperd's Tea makes a delightful iced tea, too! For cold brew leave the loose tea leaves to sit in cold water for 6 hours for a delicious refreshment. Traditionally it is sweetened with honey and served without milk.
Sugar-free. Naturally caffeine-free. Suitable for vegetarians and vegans.
Our airtight paper EcoTubes will protect your tea - just make sure you store them in a cool, dry place away from light and odours.
Enjoy this wonderful refreshment and let us know in the comments below what you think of our freshest whole leaf herbal tea!
