Herbs and spices

of Cyprus

Herbs and spices through the centuries

The use of herbs and spices has been incredibly important

throughout history. Hundreds of herbs and spices are found in

Cyprus, because of its geography, geology and climate. Many of

them are indigenous to Cyprus and others were imported either

through trade with other civilizations, or brought in by some of

islands’ foreign rulers. Today more than 600 herbs and spices exist

in Cyprus.

Herbs of Cyprus like oregano, sage, chamomile

and mint are exported worldwide. In everyday

life, Cypriots use herbs as beverages, as essential

oils for massage therapy, relaxation or toning.

Herbs are also widely used in cooking for their

aroma and great flavor.

Following we present you the most popular herbs of Cyprus

Oregano - 'Rigani'

Oregano contains vitamins A, C, E, and K, as well as fiber, folate,

iron, magnesium, vitamin B6, calcium, and potassium. Oregano

has anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, and anti-fungal effects.

Oregano essential oil may be useful for respiratory ailments like

colds and flu. Adding oregano to meat before cooking, may help

reduce the amount of toxic compounds created by the cooking

process.

Camomile - 'Hamomili'

Camomile is perhaps the world's most soothing herb, helping to

relieve anxiety and insomnia. Camomile is also often used

internally to treat digestive disorders, relieve symptoms of flu,

bowel inflammation, heartburn and even menstrual cramps.

Externally, it can be used to treat skin disorders, sunburns, eye

inflammation, bacterial infections and reduces allergy symptoms

Mint (Peppermint/Spearmint) - 'Diosmos'

Mint has many benefits for the health, including relief from headaches and migraines. It helps in ulcerous colitis, it stops indigestion and diarrhea. It is very good for cold and sinus problems, soothes stomach upsets, tones the nervous system and relieves from stress, tension and hysteria.

Anise - 'Glikanisos'

Anise stimulates the functions of vital organs: liver, heart, lungs

and brain. Tea can be made from anise seeds to soothe irritable

bowel syndrome, menstrual cramps, stomach pains and is

especially helpful for infants.

Basil - 'Vasilikos'

Basil has anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties and can help

prevent osteoarthritis. It has been used in digestive disorders and

is being studied for its anti-cancer properties. Taken as tea it is a

tonic for the stomach and it soothes nervous headaches.

Although Aloe is 99% water, the remaining 1% is

extremely powerful. Aloe is an excellent treatment for skin

conditions such as burns and eczema, soothes rashes and

skin irritations, heals cold sores, moisturizes hair and

scalp, treats constipation, helps with digestion, boosts the

immune system and provides antioxidants and reduces

inflammation.

Aloe Vera - 'Aloe'

Bay leaves – ‘Dafni’

The most impressive health benefits of bay leaves include their

ability to detoxify the body, slow the aging process, speed wound

healing, protect the body from bacterial infections, manage

diabetes, improve heart health, reduce inflammation, alleviate

respiratory issues, optimize digestion, and prevent certain types of

cancer. Whole leaves are commonly used in many dishes.

Lavender - 'Levanta'

It is a tonic of the nervous system, as it stabilizes the mood and it is effective on headaches, depression and insomnia. It improves sleep, works as an expectorant, balances blood sugar, kills bacteria, relieves pain and speeds wound healing.

Cold lavender tea is an excellent skin cleanser and helps to sooth sunburn. Also if you put a cloth with lavender flowers in your closet will repells moths and will give a pleasant aroma.

Thyme - 'Thimari'

Thyme isn’t just one of the most popular culinary herbs today, but

it also has a long history of use as a medicinal healer and protector.

Thyme fights sore throats, lowers blood pressure and cholesterol

levels, prevents food poisoning, boost mood, and has been used for

centuries for the treatment of coughs and bronchitis.

Marjoram – ‘Matzourana’

The marjoram plant is an aromatic herb known for its aroma,

therapeutic properties and culinary uses. Its botanical name means

"joy of the mountain" in Greek, and was actually first used to

make wreaths for use as wedding flowers. Marjoram improves

digestive function, protection against common illnesses, improves

heart health and has anti-inflammatory effects to name a few.

Rosemary - 'Dentrolivano'

Rosemary herb contains very good amounts of vitamin A, vitamin-

C and folic acid. Used moderately it has excellent results against

dyspeptic complaints and aid to stimulate appetite. Furthermore,

rosemary is used for headaches.

Rosemary tea can be used as a conditioning hair rinse, as is said to

aid hair loss recovery in cases where hair loss has been due to

stress and worry.

Sambucus - 'Zamboukos'

Sambucus flowers act as a diaphoretic and are very good for treating colds and flu, toothache, dry cough, sore throat and tonsils. Use sambucus tea on a cotton pad to wash and treat tired and inflamed eyes.

Cypriots love their herbs and

spices. In fact, they are the

basis of the local cuisine and

very often the secret

ingredients that give our

dishes a very special touch.

All spices and herbs take us on a

wonderful journey with their

distinctive aroma, taste, colour

and texture that they add to our

dishes and drinks.

Our grandmothers have

a remedy based on herbs

and plants for when

we’re not feeling well.

The end!

Thank you for your attention.

We hope you find the information interesting and helpful.

Have a nice week in Cyprus.

We are sure it going to be the best one!!