Mountain Germander (Teucrium montanum), a creeping subshrub, hails from the Lamiaceae family. A small plant, it ranges from 10-30 cm, forming rounded, rock-adjacent tufts. The stems predominantly stand tall and partially lignify. Its leaves, bereft of petioles, bear a lighter hue and a hairy underside, while its upper side exhibits a deep green.
The flowers, gathered in head-shaped clusters, grace the branch tips. Their petals flaunt an almost white, bright yellow color. The upper lip appears reduced, whereas the lower is notably developed and five-parted. The calyx consists of five lanceolate teeth, either bare or sparsely hairy. Its notable aromatic scent accompanies a distinctively bitter taste.
Taxonomy
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Teucrium |
| Species: | Teucrium montanum |
Other names: x…
Blooming period
| I | II | III | IV | V | VI |
| VII | VIII | IX | X | XI | XII |
What Does Mountain Germander Contain?
Mountain Germander, celebrated for its curative virtues, teems with a variety of bioactive constituents. It carries bitter substances, which aid in augmenting digestive function. In addition, it boasts tannins, known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory prowess, and an essential oil, which exerts numerous therapeutically significant effects. Alongside these, Mountain Germander contains choline, a heteroside, and a saponoside. Noteworthy is the fact that this plant presents no risk when used, signifying it as non-toxic.
When Is Mountain Germander Harvested?
Blooming from July to September, we gather this plant’s aboveground part during its flowering. We meticulously snip the leafy floral tips with a sharp tool. Then, a shady, airy spot is chosen for the plant to dry. Surprisingly, this robust plant thrives in dry, rocky terrains, around 800 meters high, favoring southern exposures.
Medicinal Properties of Mountain Germander
Mountain Germander is an authentic natural remedy, beneficial in fortifying the immune system, alleviating stress, and treating various gastric and biliary ailments. The potency of this plant is attributed to its bitter substances, tannins, and other active components. Through its antiseptic action, Mountain Germander assists in eliminating pathogenic microorganisms, purging harmful substances from the intestines and stomach, and has proven effective against various oral and throat infections.
Tea made from Mountain Germander serves as a potent blood cleanser and muscle relaxant. It also treats fever and diabetes, and recent studies have equated its antioxidant properties with those of ginkgo and green tea. Mountain Germander is also beneficial for skin diseases, considering its balms provide relief for rheumatism and other skin ailments. This versatile plant offers a wide range of therapeutic benefits, lending natural support to the body in its fight against diverse diseases.
Remedy with Mountain Germander – Preparation, Application, and Effects
Mountain Germander serves diverse roles in traditional medicine. Its tea provides relief from spasms, purifies the blood, combats fevers, and supports diabetes care. Astonishingly, the antioxidative power of this tea aligns with esteemed medicinals like ginkgo and green tea, as per research.
Recipe for Preparing Mountain Germander Tincture
To begin your healing journey, take 20g of the plant and immerse it in 100 ml of brandy. This forms the foundation for your tincture. Allow this mix to infuse peacefully over a period of two weeks, enriching the brandy with the plant’s medicinal properties. Once this process completes, you’ll have a potent remedy at your disposal. When dealing with biliary diseases or the discomfort of hemorrhoids, administer 20 drops of this tincture three times daily. This routine will offer you the benefits of this powerful, natural healer.
Mountain Germander Tincture as a Remedy for Hemorrhoids
This tincture aids in the treatment of hemorrhoids, liver and gallbladder disorders, by stimulating the creation and circulation of bile acid. Mountain Germander also has favorable effects on the skin, particularly in cases of wounds and skin changes. It is immensely popular as a balm for alleviating rheumatism. Many regard it as a universal remedy for most diseases.
Tincture for Immunity Boost
Mountain Germander can be combined with lemon balm, thyme, and yarrow to prepare a fortifying tea. Each plant should be present in equal proportions, for instance, mix 20g of each plant. To prepare the tea, steep one tablespoon of this blend in a cup of boiling water and let it cool for about 20 minutes. Strain and consume three times daily, half an hour before meals.
Tincture for Digestive and Respiratory Ailments
For treating the digestive system and respiratory tracts, steep one teaspoon of dried Mountain Germander in 2 deciliters of hot water. Allow it to infuse for half an hour, then strain. Drink 2 to 3 cups of this tea daily. If using for digestive aid, refrain from sweetening the tea, whereas for respiratory relief, feel free to add honey as desired.
Mountain Germander Alleviates Symptoms of Rheumatism and Arthritis
The traditional way to alleviate rheumatism using Mountain Germander involves an ointment recipe that requires pork lard. This medicinal remedy is widely recognized for its effectiveness. Add two tablespoons of finely chopped dried plant parts to three tablespoons of melted, not overly hot lard. Allow the mixture to cool and solidify, then gently melt it again and cool. Repeat the process twice more, then strain the ointment into prepared containers.
Tea Blend for Swift Recovery from Pneumonia
For rapid recovery from pneumonia, mix equal parts (100 grams each) of Mountain Germander, Elecampane (Inula helenium), and White Horehound (Marrubium vulgare). Combine three tablespoons of this mixture with 750 ml of boiling water, stir, and cover. Allow it to steep for 30 minutes, strain, and drink in small sips throughout the day, unsweetened.
Tea Blend for Normalizing Liver Function
To normalize liver function, mix equal parts (20 grams each) of Mountain Germander, Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum), and Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale). Grind the herbs in a blender, store in a tightly sealable jar, and keep in a dark place. Take one teaspoon of the powder daily with a little water or peppermint tea, three times a day, half an hour before meals. This regimen lasts for a month.
Bitter Herbal Liqueur for Enhancing Digestion and Appetite
To enhance digestion and appetite, mix 20 grams of Mountain Germander with 10 grams each of Great Yellow Gentian (Gentiana lutea), Wall Germander (Teucrium chamaedrys), and Sweet Flag (Acorus calamus). Place the herbs in a clean, dry jar or bottle and pour over a liter of strong spirits. Seal well and leave in a dark and cool place for 12 days, shaking occasionally. Afterward, strain and consume one glass before meals.
By regularly utilizing these natural remedies based on Mountain Germander, you will ensure better health and alleviate many ailments. However, it’s always essential to consult with a doctor before starting any treatment to ensure it is safe and effective for your health condition.
