Lemon Savory

Lemon savory (Satureja montana ssp. citriodora) is a perennial herbaceous plant in the mint family (Lamiaceae). Its stems are compact and upright, with small gray-green leaves and delicate, tiny pink-lilac flowers. The plant is native to southern Europe and the Mediterranean region.

Lemon savory has a strong lemon aroma, and in flavor it closely resembles lemon thyme, making it a suitable substitute. The herb’s lemony scent lends a fresh note to herbal teas.

Today this herb is a staple of many herb gardens. It is said to offer numerous health benefits, with particular interest in its therapeutic effects on the entire digestive system.

In contemporary folk medicine, lemon savory is considered helpful for flatulence, colic, gastroenteritis, cystitis, nausea, diarrhea, sore throat, and menstrual disorders. It is also used as an expectorant and as a poultice for treating bee stings or insect bites. A sprig rubbed on bee or wasp stings brings immediate relief.

Lemon savory possesses antifungal properties that naturally inhibit the growth of Candida albicans yeast. In addition, it is thought to stimulate the appetite and has a reputation as an aphrodisiac.