Sideritis species.
Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant: Greek Mountain Tea has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help in reducing inflammation and protecting against oxidative stress; Gastrointestinal Problems: It calms the digestive tract, reduces inflammation, and supports natural metabolic processes, making it beneficial for gastrointestinal issues; Respiratory Issues: The tea has expectorant properties and can help with colds, coughs, and respiratory problems such as bronchitis and bronchial asthma; Pain Relief and Decongestant: It acts as a decongestant and pain reliever, making it useful for relieving symptoms of colds and other respiratory ailments; Mood Enhancing and Antidepressant: Greek Mountain Tea has mood-enhancing and antidepressant effects, promoting mental well-being by influencing neurotransmitter levels; Cognitive Functions: It invigorates cognitive functions and has potential benefits for memory improvement, as seen in some studies on *Sideritis scardica*; Osteoporosis and Rheumatism: The tea promotes the formation of osteoblasts, helping to prevent and relieve osteoporosis, and its anti-inflammatory effect can relieve pain in rheumatic diseases; High Blood Pressure: The ingredients in the tea can help lower blood pressure by widening blood vessels.
Ancient Use: Greek Mountain Tea has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. It was valued by ancient cultures for its healing benefits and was used as a daily refreshment and energy boost; Traditional Harvesting: The tea is collected in the traditional way, mainly from high-altitude regions of the Mediterranean, including Greece. It has been a part of the local culture, with different regions having their own names for the brew, such as malotira on Crete; Cultural Significance: Greek shepherds have historically used the plants to make a brewed tea while tending their flocks in the high hills, hence the name "Shepherd's Tea"; Endangered Species: Some species of *Sideritis* are endangered, highlighting the importance of sourcing organic and sustainably harvested tea to ensure the long-term availability of this herb.
