Description

Greek Mountain Tea (Sideritis), also known as Ironwort, Shepherd’s Tea, Mountain Tea, Greek Ironwort, or Mediterranean Mountain Tea, is a traditional herbal infusion made from the dried flowering stems of a hardy mountain plant native to the Mediterranean. At Health Embassy, this herb is naturally dried and hand-packed to preserve its natural aroma, structure, and colour. With its mild, earthy-sweet flavour and clean finish, Greek Mountain Tea is excellent enjoyed on its own or blended.

Botanical Overview

Greek Mountain Tea comes from several species of the Sideritis genus, a group of perennial herbs traditionally found in mountainous regions of southern Europe. These resilient plants typically grow wild above 1000 metres in altitude and feature soft, woolly leaves and yellow to pale-green flowering tops. The name “Sideritis” is rooted in ancient Greek, often interpreted to mean “he who is made of iron”, a reference to the plant’s historic association with fortitude and resilience.

At Health Embassy, our dried and cut Greek Mountain Tea is composed of flowering stems, leaves, and blossoms, offering a full-spectrum herbal infusion that honours the traditional preparation methods still used today in many Greek regions.

Traditional and Contemporary Use

Historically, Greek Mountain Tea was brewed for centuries in rural mountain regions, particularly by shepherds who gathered the herb during their daily routes—hence the name “Shepherd’s Tea”. The plant’s resilience in harsh, high-altitude environments made it a trusted staple in household herbal preparations across the Balkans and Mediterranean.

Today, Greek Mountain Tea remains a cherished beverage, often enjoyed for its pleasant taste and soothing aroma. It is commonly served as a daily herbal infusion in Greek homes, cafés, and wellness settings worldwide. While still honoured for its traditional roots, it is now embraced for its flavour and natural simplicity, often featured in modern herbal blends or as a caffeine-free alternative to black or green tea.

Suggested Preparation Methods

This herb is most commonly prepared as an infusion, although it can also be simmered as a decoction for a fuller, deeper flavour. The herb is typically enjoyed warm, but it can be cooled and served over ice for a refreshing alternative.

Basic Infusion

Use approximately 1-2 teaspoons of dried Greek Mountain Tea per 200 ml cup of hot water.
Pour freshly boiled water over the herb.
Cover and steep for 5–15 minutes.
Strain and enjoy as is, or customise with your preferred additions.

This method preserves the tea’s floral and slightly citrusy character, delivering a smooth, gentle flavour.

Decoction (Traditional Brew)

Place 1–2 teaspoons of the herb into a small pot.
Add 200–300 ml of cold water.
Bring to a gentle simmer and heat for 10–15 minutes.
Allow to rest for a few minutes, then strain before serving.

This approach creates a more concentrated brew with deeper herbal notes and body.

Suggested Blends & Herbal Pairings

Greek Mountain Tea pairs well with a wide variety of dried herbs and flowers. Its mild flavour and fragrant character make it a perfect base for layered herbal teas.

Sage Leaf (Salvia officinalis): Adds a robust, earthy tone that balances the lighter floral and citrus flavors, perfect for more robust infusions.
Elderflower (Sambucus nigra): Brings a delicate floral fragrance that blends smoothly with the soft herbal notes of Sideritis, enhancing the overall aromatic experience.
Thyme Herb (Thymus serpyllum): Brings a warm, slightly earthy and savory note that adds depth and complexity to the blend.
Linden Flower (Tilia cordata): Adds depth with its sweet, honey-like undertone, enriching the flavour and aroma of the blend without overpowering the main herb.
Hibiscus Flower (Hibiscus L): Contributes a bold, tangy flavour and deep red colour, offering a lively contrast to the mild, floral notes of Greek Mountain Tea. Ideal for refreshing iced teas or more vivid herbal combinations.

All herbs mentioned above are part of the Health Embassy collection, making it easy to explore and create your own custom tea blends.

Optional Additions for Flavour Enhancement

To tailor your infusion to personal taste, consider these optional ingredients:

Lemon zest or peel – Brightens the flavour with a fresh citrus edge.
Honey – Naturally sweetens the infusion and complements the floral notes.
Cinnamon stick – Adds subtle warmth and spice, especially in colder months.
Dried orange slices – Create a mild fruitiness that layers beautifully with Greek Mountain Tea.
Fresh or dried mint leaves – For a clean, cooling undertone.

These ingredients can be added during brewing or combined into a pre-made herbal mix for convenience.

Product Quality and Packaging

Each batch of Greek Mountain Tea from Health Embassy is:

Hand-packed in small batches to maintain consistency and freshness
Naturally dried and cut, with no added colours, flavours, or preservatives
Free from GMO and artificial substances, offering a clean, natural herbal experience
Delivered in resealable kraft pouches, designed to protect the herb from moisture and light

We take great care in sourcing and packaging to ensure that you receive a product that retains its full character from harvest to cup.

Disclaimer

This product description is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or replace professional medical advice. If you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have any health condition, consult a qualified healthcare provider before using herbal products.