Page 25 - Annual Magazine 2018

HEALTH | HERB VARIETIES
NUMBERS
There are reportedly
some 600-herb species
found across Cyprus
today.

STEVIA
This noncaloric herb is used as medicine and a sweet treat. Stevia
has also been used specifically as a traditional medicine for burns,
stomach problems and colic.

ANISE (GLIKANISOS) ROSEMARY (DENTROLIVANO)
Very often consumed as a tea made from the seeds of the plant, anise This fragrant herb is widely used in Mediterranean cuisine to flavor
is helpful in easing irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or stomach aches, all kinds of dishes. It improves the digestive system and enhances
HERBS LEMON VERBENA (ALOIZA) THYME (THYMARI)
and is said to promote liver, lungs, heart and brain function. In terms
memory and concentration.
of cooking, anise is said to be a wonderful addition to rice.

This herb adds extra flavor to meaty dishes and helps make them
Aside from being a mood booster, lemon verbena is reportedly also
juicier. It can also be used as a herbal aromatic tea for flu relief.
great for treating IBS symptoms, as well as nausea. Some even say

that this herb is helpful when trying to lose weight.
LAVENDER (LEVANDA)
of Cyprus ALOE Gourmet gardeners know that lavender flowers can also be used in
the kitchen. Lavender can be combined with delicious creamy cheese
Aloe is fantastic for treating dermal conditions like sunburn, burns,
(mascarpone, ricotta), lamb, chicken, duck, dried fruits, honey, dairy
eczema and other skin ailments. Although 99% water, it’s the
C
products (cream) and nuts (walnuts).
remaining 1% that packs a punch by supplying the skin cells with
oxygen which improves the strength and synthesis of skin tissue. For the love of herbs
So popular are the herb at Aphrodite Hills Hotel by Atlantica Hotels

The culinary journey at Aphrodite Hills is one that infuses
Story by Eleni Hoplaros varieties here, many are all Cypriot. This journey typically begins at the Resort’s
the traditions and flavours of many cuisines, not least of
exported across the globe. exquisitely landscaped gardens and at the herbal garden.

It is here that the chefs commence their day, wandering about
“To insure good health: eat lightly, breathe deeply, live moderately, cultivate FENNEL (MARATHOS) the patches of locally grown, native to the region, aromatic
herbs and spices, choosing those that will eventually end up
cheerfulness, and maintain an interest in life.” Unlike other herbs, fennel is regarded as a herb and spice, being that integrated into a myriad of dishes that can be experienced at
William Londen the entire plant is edible. It’s an all-rounder due to its medicinal use, one of the Resort’s high-end restaurants.
and also the depth of flavour it adds to food. Not only is fennel used
to treat colic and bronchial congestion, it is said to be helpful in the
quest to lose weight, and is believed to be beneficial in the treatment
of snake or insect bites.

Cyprus has a long history with herbs. Not only have they been So popular are the herb varieties here, that many are exported across BASIL (VASILIKOS)
referenced in archaeological and historical records, they’ve also the globe. These include mint, oregano, chamomile, and others. While basil is popular for its use in cooking chicken, fish, soups and
been traded on the island from as far back at 2000BC. Cypriots are also known to incorporate the use of herbs into daily pasta sauces, it is also popular for treating nervous headaches, and
life, not only for cooking, but also in beverages or as essential oils aids in bloating and indigestion.
There are reportedly some 600-herb species found across Cyprus utilized in a range of massage therapies. So, what other herbs in
today which is said to be due to the geology, weather and location particular are commonly found in Cypriot homes, and what are their OREGANO (RIGANI)
of the island. health benefits? A staple in a variety of eclectic dishes, oregano is also used to treat a
range of ailments including stomach pain, toothaches and colds.
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Aphrodite Hills Resort “European Golf Resort of the Year 2018”