Diktamos is a plant that is linked to the Cretan land. It is one of the most famous aromatic plants of Crete, which grows only in certain areas of the island. Its name comes from the words "Dikti" (mountain of Crete) and "thamnos", which means bush.

In ancient times

In antiquity it was considered one of the most important aromatherapy plants, against stomach, digestive, rheumatism, arthritic and other diseases. Aristotle and Theophrastos report that hunted wild boar from the hunters ran to find and eat dice in order to close their wounds. [1]

What does it look like?

It is a plant that looks quite like oregano. It reaches 30 to 40 cm, has oval gray-green leaves, covered with white fluff and on the top of the flowers bloom bright pink color. For its growth it needs plenty of sun and prefers steep and rocky locations. Experts tell us that they can be grown on the ground, as long as we can provide them with good drainage.

Where is it cultivated?

It is now cultivated in areas of the prefectures of Heraklion and Rethymno, while a large part of its production is exported, along with other herbs, to Italy - for the production of vermouth - smaller quantities are consumed inside our country as a decoction. However, it is a great demand to have its essential oil from pharmaceutical companies, cosmetic and beverage companies.

Its uses

It is considered an effective medicine for stomach upsets and useful brew. It also relieves headaches, neuralgia, liver disease, and period pains. Its essential oil is used to relieve muscular and rheumatic pains as well as skin diseases.

Sources of information:

https://apothesis.lib.teicrete.gr/

https://www.mistikakipou.gr

Aggeliki Koskeridou

Holistic Doctor – Counseling Psychotherapist

Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine

MSc c. Health Psychology

www.AggelikiKoskeridou.com

insta: dr_aggelikikoskeridou_official 

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