Aerial part of Dittany – tradition and uses

Dittany grows wild on the arid, rocky slopes of Crete. Its hairy stems and gray-green leaves give off an intense fragrance, similar to oregano but more delicate. It is often consumed as an herbal tea, alone or with other Mediterranean plants, for comfort and relaxation.

Description

Cut aerial parts (leaves and flowers), grayish green to pale brown, penetrating and pleasant aromatic odor, soft and slightly downy texture.

Nomenclature

• Common names: Dittany of Crete, Cretan Oregano
• Latin name: Origanum dictamnus
• Family: Lamiaceae
• Part used: Aerial part (leaves and flowering tops)
• Shape: Cut
• Origin: Crete (Greece)
• English name: Dittany of Crete
• German name: Kretischer Diptam
• Name in Spanish: Dictamo de Creta
• Name in Italian: Dittamo di Creta
• Name in Arabic: ديكتام كريت (Diktām Kreet)

Main virtues

Traditionally, dittany is known to soothe digestive discomfort and internal tension. It is also used in aromatic treatments for its relaxing effects and comforting aroma, often incorporated into herbal infusions or steam baths.

Main constituents

Essential oils (carvacrol, thymol), flavonoids, tannins, resins, phenolic acids.

Use and dosage

• Infusion: 1 to 2 teaspoons for 200 ml of hot water, infuse for 8 to 10 minutes, drink hot or warm.
• Steam bath: a handful in a container of boiling water, inhale gently from a distance.
• Room fragrance sachet: in muslin, to hang or place in a cupboard to perfume naturally.

Precautions, side effects and contraindications

• Regulated plant – use governed by official texts.
• Do not consume without professional advice.
• Not recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
• May cause interactions with drug treatments.

History and origin

A true treasure of Crete, dittany was already mentioned by Hippocrates and Dioscorides for its many virtues. Used in ancient times as a sacred plant, it still symbolizes natural healing and the wisdom of the ancients. Its harvest was once entrusted to young shepherds who climbed cliffs to reach the wild plants.

Miscellaneous information

• Packaging: lined kraft bag or opaque box.
• Storage: away from heat, humidity and light.
• Appearance: Silvery green and flowery fragments, soft texture.
• Smell: aromatic, between oregano and sweet sage.

Sources and references

• Pl@ntUse – https://uses.plantnet-project.org
• Traditional Greek Pharmacopoeias
• Works on Mediterranean ethnobotany
• Documentation of the Botanical Garden of Crete

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