Greek Mountain Tea
Greek Mountain Tea, known as Sideritis or 'Ironwort,' is a traditional herbal infusion made from the dried leaves, stems, and flowers of the Sideritis plant, which grows wild in the rocky mountainsides of Greece and the Mediterranean. It is typically brewed by steeping the entire plant in hot water, often with honey or lemon added to taste. This caffeine-free beverage has been a staple in Greek households for centuries, valued for its earthy, slightly floral flavor.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
Greek Mountain Tea is virtually calorie-free, containing no significant carbohydrates, fats, or proteins. Its primary nutritional contribution comes from a range of beneficial plant compounds, including antioxidants like flavonoids and diterpenes, along with small amounts of minerals such as iron and calcium.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 2 kcal |
| Protein | 0 g |
| Carbs | 0.5 g |
| Fat | 0 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Sugar | 0 g |
| Sodium | 5 mg |
| Potassium | 50 mg |
| Calcium | 15 mg |
| Magnesium | 5 mg |
| Iron | 0.3 mg |
| Manganese | 0.2 mg |
| Vitamin C | 2 mg |
| Flavonoids | trace |
| Diterpenes | trace |
Per 1 cup brewed tea (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, Sideritis is deeply woven into Greek folk medicine, where it's traditionally used as a general wellness tonic for everything from digestion to mood. Nutritionally, it's unique for its exceptionally high concentration of antioxidants, which are thought to be responsible for its potential anti-inflammatory and immune-supporting properties.
