There is much empirical evidence that certain foods have significant health benefits and, in certain cases, this evidence is backed up by detailed studies. Many of these studies have been carried out over extended time periods with proper adherence to the required protocols. The Mediterranean diet, for example, has been the subject of many such…
Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) is flowering plant which can be found all over the world. It grows to a height of about 1 metre and is used both as an ornamental garden plant as well as for its medicinal properties In classical times it was known as herba militaris for its ability to stop the blood…
The caper, or caper bush, (Capparis spinosa) is best known as a source of food. The buds of the flowers are pickled and used in salads and some typical dishes of the Mediterranean region where it is found. The plant itself is somewhat remarkable. The flowers are rather impressive and the plant itself seems to…
Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) is a perennial plant used primarily in cooking and for its aromatic properties which resemble those of Dill and Anise. The seeds of the plant and the oil have been used to relieve various digestive problems including heartburn, intestinal gas, bloating, loss of appetite, and colic in infants. A number of health…
Borage (Borago officinalis) is native to the Mediterranean region but also grows well in other more temperate climates. Its leaves can be eaten as a salad vegetable or cooked, and the plant is also nowcultivated for the oil from its seeds. There are a number of historical references to the medicinal uses of borage. The…
The plant Salvia fruticosa or Greek Sage, grows extensively in Greece and is widely found on Lesvos and it has similar properties to Common or Garden Sage (Salvia officinalis) which is also a Mediterranean plant found chiefly in Northwestern Greece, the Western Balkans, Italy, France and Spain. Greek sage can develop woolly galls called “apples”…
Camomile, or chamomile, (Matricaria chamomilla) is a daisy-like plant which is often used as an infusion or herbal tea and in cosmetics and personal cleaning products. The characteristic smell of the flowers distinguishes it easily from the common daisy. A tea prepared from the dried flowers of the plant is often taken for help with…
Polyphenols are another class of compounds which are regularly listed in the active constituents of plants with medicinal, dietary or other beneficial applications. They are often referred to together with flavones and flavonoids with which they have common structural characteristics. The term polyphenols is often used rather loosely and there is no universal agreement on…
Thymbra capitata or Thymus capitatum is widespread in the mediterranan basin and is readily found on Lesvos. It is very aromatic can be used as an alternative to common thyme in cooking. It has been used to treat cough, throat and lung infections, indigestion, gastritis, diarrhoea, gum disease and wounds and fungal infections. The flowers…
The olive tree (olea europea) is one of the most characteristic plants of the Mediterranean region and, historically, has played a major role in the culture and prosperity of the region. There are many references to olive trees and their products in ancient texts. The Mediterranean basin accounts for the vast majority of all the…