A sweet of nature with healing properties!

Honey is a natural product that has been widely used for its healing properties. It has been reported to contain about 200 different substances and although it is mainly composed of fructose and glucose it also contains many amino acids, vitamins, minerals and enzymes. Natural honey also contains flavonoids, phenolic acids, ascorbic acid, tocopherols and other compounds that provide a synergistic antioxidant action. At the same time, studies have shown that honey has anti-inflammatory and anti-metastatic properties.

Both the aroma and the composition of the honey differ depending on the plants from which the bee collects its food. Here in Crete one of the most famous is the thyme with the characteristic taste of the thyme of our place. But also honey from pine, orange or chestnut, are separate favorite categories of honey, each with its own unique aroma and taste!

Can I add honey to my herbal tea?

So, the addition of honey to an honey to an herbal tea in addition to the sweet taste that it will give will also contribute to the increase of its medicinal properties. For example, adding honey to an herbal tea with Cretan Mountain tea – Malotira can effectively relieve the symptoms associated with colds, the common flu and laryngitis. In general, it will improve your oral health, reduce the risk of heart disease and can, in combination with lemon juice, be an important energy booster!

When and how much honey to add to my herbal tea?

Honey should be added to our tea if it has cooled down a bit in order to take advantage of its own properties. The amount has to do with how sweet we want it to be, however a typical dosage is one teaspoon for a cup of tea (200ml of water).

Preparation of herbal tea malotira with honey

1. Place 2 to 3 stems of dried malotira in a container that closes.
2. Add 200ml (a cup) of hot water, temperature 90^oC.
3. Wait for five to ten minutes, letting the herb bring out the hidden power.
4. Remove the herb from the pan.
5. Wait for a few minutes so that our tea is not so hot and then add a teaspoon of honey.

Remember! We want our water to be just before the boiling point in order not to loose the healing properties of our herb, while in order to benefit from the properties of honey we should dedicate a few more minutes and add it once our tea has become a little more lukewarm.

Enjoyment and taste with the power of nature

You can wonderfully choose any herbal tea of ​​your choice instead of Malotira, since honey fits perfectly in your every choice!

The bee’s love for herbs is well known and it is truly impressive – when our Malotira is in bloom – the multitude of bees that surround it! In order to collect the flower stems, the bees on them must first be removed with gentle movements. Do they have “knowledge” of the unique properties of the plants from which they choose to eat or is it just the aroma and ΄΄taste΄΄ that attract them? In any case, nature has once again acted wisely!

Herbs and honey, two treasures of our earth that each both individually and in combination can contribute to the strengthening of our body, while offering delicious drinks every hour of the day.

Do you want to try something cool? Cold Tea with Cretan Herbs! An ideal choice to cool off!

Therefore, even if you do not need medical support from this tea, you can just enjoy it on a cold lazy day to improve your mood and increase your energy. The cup of the hot Greek mountain tea slightly sweet and with a mild taste with floral notes will ensure a pleasing feel while your overall health can be promoted due to Greek mountain tea benefits.

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  Organic Malotira

  2,49€ – 9,82€ Buy This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page

Buy Malotira

Malotira offers rich health benefits as it is rich in antioxidants and vitamins, helping to boost the immune system, protect the skin from free radicals and promote healthy digestion.

What is Greek mountain tea?

Greek mountain tea is composed of plants related to the family of Sideritis. Therefore, it is also known as Sideritis. The name comes from the Greek word ”sideros” which actually means iron.

Pictures from ConstantinosZ

Greek mountain tea is primarily found in the Mediterranean region. The herb grows in wild locations, and only a small amount is cultivated. Actually, in the wild landscapes, they are often found on the rocky sides of cliffs and mountains at heights up to 2500 meters. The sun and semi-arid temperatures make the plants produce beneficial compounds.

Sideritis is a perennial flowering that influences the taste of this mountain tea. It comes with a floral, earthy, and lightly delicious touch. The Greek mountain tea actually tastes like a combination of mint, citrus, and chamomile. Therefore, everyone enjoys the smooth and delicious appealing flavor of this tea.

The tea is made from the dried leaves, flowers, and stems of the native Sideritis herb. This incredible plant has tiny yellow flowers with light green details and silvery leaves. The leaves of this herb are rich in essential oils with different antioxidants, polyphenols, and a wide range of phytonutrients. Overall nutrients from the Greek mountain tea are generally good for physical and mental health and well-being.

People who are avoiding the intake of caffeine can enjoy drinking mountain tea as well due it is naturally caffeine-free. For a more delicious taste of this mountain tea, you can add a slice of lemon or even a bit of cinnamon.

The origins of Mountain tea

The herb has an interesting historical story that refers to another name that this tea is well-known for and that is shepherd tea. The ancient Greeks shepherds started to brew this unusual plant high up in the mountains to keep themselves warm during cold times and to protect themselves from getting sick. Writers from Ancient Greek times including Pedanius Dioscorides and Theophrastus described species of Greek mountain tea.

These writers have described some of the most important herb benefits. They had the ability to heal wounds on Ancient Greek fighters caused by iron weapons. Besides them, the Greek philosopher and the father of modern medicine – Hippocrates highlighted the benefits of this herb for the immune and respiratory systems.

Sideritis – Mountain Tea Benefits

Since ancient times, Greeks have used Sideritis herb for medical purposes and healing. Nowadays, in Greece mountain tea is consumed most often in the winter period to combat the cold and flu. However, even if the person becomes sick, the tea can help him to reduce fever and to stop the inflammatory condition.

Despite that, Greek Mountain tea can solve digestion problems, strengthen the overall immune system of the individual, and calm anxiety. Greek Mountain tea benefits do not stop here, so let’s find everything about the incredible healing purpose that it provides. Due to the numerous health benefits that we listed, many people consider this tea as a good Mediterranean diet as well, and they are adding it to their daily routine.

Alzheimer’s

One of the most interesting and unique medical purposes of this mountain tea refers to its potential to fight cognitive decline. More precisely, studies show that special extracts from mountain tea can prevent and even treat Alzheimer’s disease as well as dementia. Drinking mountain tea has numerous health benefits for mental and cognitive conditions.

Digestive Health

Greek herbal tea has positive healing effects on gastrointestinal problems and disorders. The health benefits of the tea provide significant anti-inflammatory effects, so the inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract can be removed easily. The presence of antioxidants and phenols in the herb can also reduce the risk of gastrointestinal toxicity in a long path due to tea’s protective power. Therefore, if you have some stomach problem, this herbal treatment can be an easy solution.

Lower Blood Pressure

Studies show that particular extracts and substances from Greek herbal tea can lower blood pressure since it helps blood vessels to relax. Arterial blood pressure is measured during the study and the results show a significant impact on reducing stress on the heart muscle. However, even though studies show the health benefits of the tea for the heart, the Greek mountain tea is not yet considered as a treatment for cardiovascular conditions.

Osteoporosis

One more unknown medical purpose of this herb is the fact that it can positively influence bone density. Therefore, people that have a problem with osteoporosis can drink this delicious tea and help their organism to resist the osteoporosis effects.

Colds, Aches, and Immune Booster

As we said, some of the mountain tea’s health benefits are anti-inflammatory qualities.
Since it has a high level of bioflavonoid which produces and promotes the intake of vitamin C, the tea can fight against every type of inflammation in the organism.

Therefore, people can drink one hot cup of tea as a daily routine and save their health. More precisely, they can ease general aches, reduce pains, and relieve oxidative stress from the organism.

Despite that, it can suppress viruses, colds, allergies, and even sinus disorders. Tea can also prevent headaches, fatigue and boost the overall immune system of the person. By drinking tea regularly, people can achieve general wellness and cellular antioxidant defenses.

Reduce Anxiety and Depression

Research has shown that tea has an incredible impact on mental health. More precisely, the intake of this tea can help people who suffer from anxiety and depression. It can reduce stress and pressure levels and relax the organism of the person. Also, people who have problems like this can also drink tea as an anti-depressive aid and naturally fight the stress level that bothers them.

Despite this, there is also some evidence even from ancient times that this tea can give a libido boost. While it can positively reduce stress and anxiety as well as improve sleeping it can improve the overall mood and improve the feeling of sensuality.

Calming and soothing healthy benefits come from antioxidants and phytonutrients in the tea compound. Therefore, you can take a cup of this healthy beverage any time of the day and give yourself relaxation and calm your mind.

Sleep aid

As we mentioned above, while tea has a relaxing impact on the body, it can help with a sleep disorder. With the calming qualities, it is recommended for people who suffer from insomnia to drink a cup of tea before going to sleep. It can become your night routine before you go to bed.

Conclusion

Finding a reliable source from which you will order Greek mountain tea products can be a challenging task. The thing that makes the whole process so complex is the fact that very few brands offer completely natural and organic products. Only consumption of the most quality products can ensure the health benefits that we listed above. Therefore, if you are interested to experience the health benefits of the tea from a reliable and reputable brand, you can check what tofillo offers and see our organic malotira product.

Are interested to try some of our organic herbs? Check out our Organic Herbal Teas!

What is Malotira?

Malotira is a plant within the Sideritis genus. Found in western Crete, and consumed both as a drink and as a medicine, Malotira has long been considered to have healing properties. The essential oil produced from Malotira is also rich in antibacterials and antioxidants. While the wild version of the Malotira plant is now rare, domestic versions of the plant continue to be farmed to this day, providing benefit to people from all over the world. These plants also have almost grey-green leaves and downy stems, and while they are rarer than they once were, they are still considered a delicacy in Crete and beyond.

Where does Sideritis Syriaca come from?

Sideritis plants exclusively grew wild on Crete’s beautiful mountain ranges. With the best growth between 800 and 2,000 metres above sea level, Cretans have long harvested and used Malotira plants in a range of recipes and medicinal applications. The White Mountains of Crete are where these unique, yellow-flowered plants are most abundant. As an endemic plant to the region, malotira harvesting and usage has been perfected over centuries. Sideritis syriaca plants were once considered a remedy for wounds caused by iron weapons in ancient times, proving just how long and interesting a history Malotira forms a part of.

• 

  Organic Malotira

  2,49€ – 9,82€ Buy This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page

Buy Malotira

Malotira offers rich health benefits as it is rich in antioxidants and vitamins, helping to boost the immune system, protect the skin from free radicals and promote healthy digestion.

How is it used?

Malotira has had many applications and purposes over the years, the primary of which is medicine. The European Medical Agency recognizes the Sideritis species as a natural treatment from gastrointestinal problems, colds with coughs, and any inflammation, and Cretan people have used this Mountain Tea for generations for these reasons. The word ‘Malotira’ itself originates from the Latin words ‘male’ and ‘tirare’, which means pushing away illness, proving just how powerful these small plants were considered to be. For medicinal purposes, Cretan Mountain Tea has been consumed as an enjoyable herbal tea for nearly as many years.

How is Cretan Mountain Tea grown?

Long ago, Cretan Mountain Tea was harvested from the wild on an as-needed basis. But as the benefits of this unique tea became known outside of western Crete, there was more of a need to cultivate and care for these unique plants. Like other Cretan herbs, a declining population due to overcrowding and human intervention means less to go around. Utilizing healthy Malotira populations, not over-farming, and drying and cleaning seeds ready to plant is an essential part of the process for Malotira farming. At Tofillo, that’s exactly what we do to ensure a thriving population of Malotira, we collected wild malotira seeds and started their cultivation in our organic farm located at Omalos plateau – allowing us to offer its incredible benefits to even more people without the risk of destroying existing populations.

What are the health benefits of Cretan Mountain Tea?

Malotira has a range of different medicinal benefits and properties, many of which were picked up in ancient times by Crete’s native population. The part of the Malotira plant that holds the most benefit is the dried flower stems, which are used in healing teas. Not only is Malotira said to heal those suffering from heart issues and digestion problems, but it is also used to fight common colds, and even heal wounds. Antibacterial and antioxidant properties make Cretan Mountain Tea good for you whether you suffer from health problems or not. Often, Malotira is also combined with other herbs and ingredients that promote healing. Honey, for example, will help ease a sore throat if you have a cough. Dittany, sage, and marjoram are often used in Cretan Mountain Tea, providing flavor and additional benefit to the drinker. Overall, Malotira has shown evidence of helping strengthen the immune system – and with thousands of years of history in medicine, tsai tou vounou continues to be a favorite natural remedy for the people of Crete. While research is still underway, German researchers have discovered that Greek mountain teas, including Malotira, may positively affect the memory of individuals with dementia. This, combined with all the other benefits that this unique plant brings, makes it the ideal addition to a daily routine, or a worthwhile option for those considering herbal or natural medicinal treatments for the first time.

How can you get the benefits of Malotira?

As a herbal tea, Malotira is simply drunk in the same way you would drink any other herbal tea. That ease of use makes it the ideal choice to quickly improve the health and healing of those who want to get all the benefits of natural medicine. Cretan Mountain Tea is both an experience and natural medicine, providing benefits while also offering a delicious, unique herbal drink.

Cretan Mountain Tea at tofillo

At tofillo, we take our Cretan products seriously. We know and love the land and the herbs and plants that we use to create incredible products. If you’re interested in discovering Cretan Herbal Tea, our high-quality blends sourced from our own farms are the ideal way to get a taste of Cretan’s extensive and diverse history. Find out more about our organic loose leaf malotira tea below!

From stone and time the documentary with a special tribute to the region of Omalos. It was a great pleasure to welcome the team of the TV production “From Stone and Time”. You will see the presentation at our organic farm in Omalos, in the 27 minutes and 27 seconds of the video below.

In our organic farm in Οmalos we cultivate a large part of the organic herbs we offer in our online shop.

The decline in the natural population of Malotira plants is increasing annually. Unfortunately, this is happening with a lot of Cretan herbs. We considered it our duty to protect this valuable herb and proceeded to its organic cultivation in areas that used to grow on its own. Respecting the biodiversity of the area and the need to protect this rare and so charismatic medicinal herb of mountainous Crete, we also took it for granted that the new Malotira plants should be created by local population’s seeds.

The implementation plan of seeds collection

The plan was ready. Observing the weather conditions on the island, we arranged the day that we would go to the White Mountains. The road is impassable, the landscape changes after a few minutes of driving. From the rich greenery, to bush lands and then to the foothills of Madara. We need to find healthy Malotira populations, which’s seeds is mature. The wandering has already started in the early morning hours, in the middle of August. The collection of the seeds from Malotira’s plants must be very careful. Both for not causing damage to the “mother” plants and not losing the seeds that hardly stand on the mature flowers of the Cretan herb.

Thoughts stop. The environment is unusual and different from other mountainous areas of the island. The wild beauty, the endless nature but also the majesty of the White Mountains is something unique. We do not want to collect a big quantity of seeds. We just want to cover our first plantings on the plateau of Omalos in the organic farm tofillo. Nature needs the seeds of Malotira, since from there the wild population will be renewed. It is almost midday when we decide to leave the area. The sun has risen high and the shadow of the high peaks no longer exists. During the return we can see and other herbs of the Cretan land. The curly sage, as they say in Crete (Salvia pomifera) and wild origano, aromatizes the area. Somewhere further we meet the local marjoram (Origanum microphyllum), while the sound from the flocks of sheep and goats accompanies us for most of the way back.

Back for drying and cleaning seeds of Malotira

The collected parts of the flower stems should be dried, and the moisture removed from the seeds quickly. After a few days of natural drying, it was time to remove the seeds. In a cloth bag, we will shake the flower stems. It will now be very easy to separate the seeds from the other parts of the plant. Sieving is the next step. Only the Malotira seed must be left. The good Malotira seeds must be separated. The round and not “shrinking” seed will be the one that will “open”. Throughout the process, the wisdom of nature comes to our mind again… Ants know well which seeds are fertile and choose them for transporting to their nest. Ants have been excellent collectors of Malotira seeds since ancient times!

The seeds will bring to life young Malotiras plants

We sow the seeds in fertile and light topsoil with a small mixture of the local soil. The sowing bed will be ready soon. Water as a source of life is necessary every day. The first warm days of autumn will help the Malotira seeds to grow quickly. Their first leaves will come out soon. We are happy! Plants should not grow too much on the sowing bed. They must be transplanted in a few days in special multi-position discs. There it takes some days for developing their root system so that the small Malotira plants will be ready for installation on the land of Omalos plateau.

The joy of creation

We meet nature’s miracle when we see the new medicinal plants of Malotira, the reproduction with local seeds has made plants totally different from one another. Just as humans are unique and special, so are our plants of Malotira. We notice the marked differences between neighboring plants and even the “aggression” from plant to plant.

We are very happy when we complete all this process. We meet nature’s miracle when we see the new medical plants of Malotira, the reproduction with local seeds. So we “get to know personally” every single of our plants. This relationship gives us the knowledge and power to produce certified quality healthy products.

The journey in the world of Cretan herbs continues…

More about White Mountains (Lefka Ori)

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lefka_Ori

More about Malotira, Sideritis Syriaca

What is Malotira? Everything you should know about the Cretan Mountain Tea