What's the secret to a long and healthy life? It could be the Ikarian Herbal Tea as a part of the Mediterranean Diet!
my two favorite people in the world Elena and Tasos (my in-laws) drinking wildcrafted herbal tea on Ikaria
Have you ever heard of the Greek island called Ikaria? Well, it’s been nicknamed the “island of longevity” due to its unusually high population of centenarians living healthy and happy lives. In the Blue Zone region of Ikaria -one of the five Blue Zones in the world(!) there are more than four times as many people over 90 years old compared to other European areas; what’s more incredible is that some are reaching their century mark! What could be the mysterious factor behind this clique of centenarians? Ever heard of the Ikarian diet? It's a Mediterranean diet that has been linked to longevity and good health. But what does it have to do with tea? Well, if you're looking for a way to add some years to your life, you may want to look no further than this unique combination of diet and beverage. Let’s take a look at how the Ikarian tea and the Mediterranean diet work together for optimal health.
100% natural, adaptogenic, wildcrafted, caffeine free, loose leaf, ethically sourced herbs, handpicked from the Greek Mountains
Why Is the Ikarian Diet So Special?
The Ikarian diet is based on the traditional dietary patterns of the people living on the Greek island of Ikaria. Studies have found that those following an Ikarian diet tend to live longer than those who don’t, with low rates of coronary heart disease and cancer. This is likely due to their high intake of plant-based foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds and olive oil. There is also a low intake of saturated fat and processed food items in an Ikarian diet, with a moderate intake of fish and dairy products, as well as moderate wine consumption with meals. With organic foods at the center of this diet, the body is fueled with healthy nutrients that help you not only live longer but also feel healthier.
a classic Mediterranean dinner on Ikaria always includes a Greek salad with plenty of fresh vegetables, herbs like oregano and extra virgin olive oil (EVOO)
How Does Tea Fit Into This Picture?
Greek tea has a special place in Mediterranean culture—it's often served after meals or with snacks. It's believed that drinking quality herbal tea can help prevent disease by protecting cells from oxidative damage caused by free radicals. One study showed that herbal tea consumption was associated with improved cognitive performance among elderly participants in Greece. What better way to enjoy your daily dose of antioxidants than through natural herbs?
handpicked herbs from the Ikarian mountains
What Kind Of Tea Should You Choose For An Ikarian Diet?
There are many types of herbal teas available on the market these days; however, if you really want to embrace an authentic Greek lifestyle, opt for one made from natural, wildcrafted herbs grown on the island itself! Herbal teas such as Greek sage, dandelion, or rosemary.
"The Ikarian Tea" with Sage + Dandelion + Rosemary Loaded with antioxidants, and nutrients, these herbs have so many benefits for us. They also have antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties that make them the perfect support we need in our busy lives.
What is Ikarian Tea?
Ikarian tea is a unique herbal blend created by the locals on the island of Ikaria. This traditional tea is made up of various herbs and spices, including rosemary, sage, dandelion, fliskouni (pennyroyal tea), fennel seeds, and wild marjoram. Depending on the recipe used, other ingredients such as honey or lemon juice can also be added for extra flavor, antioxidants, and vitamin C.
Ikarian Herbs & Health Benefits
Rosemary Tea / Salvia Rosmarinus / Δεντρολίβανο
Due to its ingredients, Ikarian tea boasts a variety of health benefits. Rosemary has antioxidant properties that help reduce inflammation and protect against cell damage; This aromatic evergreen shrub contains an abundance of minerals and vitamins, making it a great choice for herbal tea drinkers wanting to make an herbal infusion that tastes great and has ample amounts of iron, calcium and vitamin B6. Furthermore, it's not just a healthy food - various traditional cultures believe it promotes longevity too! So why not give rosemary a try?
Sage Tea / Salvia Fruticosa, Φασκόμηλο
Ikarian sage tea stands out as one of the healthiest alternatives for those looking to make a splash in the longevity world. Its unique herbal infusion gives it a refreshing flavor and its deep-rooted benefits are hard to ignore. The brewed beverage is widely known for its fantastic range of therapeutic uses, from alleviating stress-related insomnia to making cognitive processes more efficient, so there's no better choice for health-conscious individuals who care about their body and mind. Healthy living just got a whole lot easier with Ikarian Sage!
Dandelion Tea / Taraxacum Officinale / Ταραξάκο
Among the favorite herbal teas of the Ikarian people is the dandelion; both the leaves and root can be used to make a tea. From the common garden weed to an herbal infusion, dandelion benefits can help achieve a healthier lifestyle. Dandelions contain high amounts of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like zinc, iron, and potassium, all of which are essential for the healthy function of the body. An herbal infusion made of dandelion leaves contains much less caffeine than regular tea but offers similar health benefits like reducing inflammation and fighting infection, plus age-defying antioxidants—perhaps one reason why some cultures associate this flower with longevity! It's also known for being a natural diuretic, helping the body rid itself of excess fluid. Drinking dandelion tea is sure to help you live like an Ikarian long into your old age if you desire to achieve a long life!
Where Can I Buy Ikarian Tea?
Ikarian tea is widely available online as well as in specialty shops around Greece, and NOW it's available in the United States (US) as well. Since it contains wildcrafted herbs with no preservatives or artificial flavors added, you should always make sure you buy your tea from reputable sources that offer quality products with accurate information about their ingredients. And if you want to experience the real thing on your next visit to Greece, you know where to go!
The Ikarian Tea is Perfect Hot Or Iced. You choose!
Whether it's brewed with honey or lemon juice—or just served plain—it seems like there's something magical about the Ikarian tea that could be helping locals live longer than the average life expectancy rates suggest!
- HOT BREW INSTRUCTIONS: Boil 12 oz of water. Reduce to low and simmer 1 tsp/pinch of herbs for 5-7 minutes. Strain. Enjoy!
- COLD BREW ICED TEA INSTRUCTIONS: Add 4-6 tsp/pinches of herbs to a 1-liter glass bottle with filtered water (room temperature). Let it steep in the refrigerator overnight. Strain, add ice cubes if desired, and savor the most refreshing, healthy, and delicious iced herbal tea!
From its anti-inflammatory properties to its digestive-aiding effects and free radical-fighting antioxidants, there are plenty of reasons why everyone should give this unique herbal blend a try! Who knows—you may just discover your own secret for achieving a greater, healthier, and longer life! Try some today!
Greek Superherbs on Ikaria, Greece, summer 2022
