The ancient belief held that Cretan goats could survive arrow wounds because they consumed dittany.
Dittany (Origanum dictamnus) is a native herb of Crete and is commonly brewed into tea.
This plant naturally thrives in canyons and on cliffs, but nowadays, it is also cultivated. It features fluffy, grey-green leaves, vibrant violet flowers, and emits a highly fragrant scent.
Dittany has been revered as a healing herb since the era of the Minoans. Even Hippocrates utilised it for various purposes, including digestive support, as an antiseptic, tonic, and for managing arthritis. Additionally, it is believed to possess aphrodisiac qualities, which have earned it the local name 'Erontas,' signifying 'love' in Greek.
In ancient times, there was a belief that dittany had the power to expel arrows from wounded bodies. It was thought that Cretan goats could endure arrow wounds because they consumed dittany.
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The flora of Crete
Greek Sage
Cretan Oregano or Cretan Marjoram
Colchicum Balansae - Balansa Colchico
Cretan Zelkova
Carob Tree (Ceratonia Siliqua)
The Cretan Date Palm
Kermes Oak (Quercus Coccifera)
Ironwort
Sand Lily, Sea Lily (Pancratium Maritimum)
Cretan Cyclamen
The Cretan Cephalanthera
Phoenician Juniper and Large-Fruited Juniper
Gallipoli Rose
Natural Monuments
Lilac Wonder (Tulipa doerfleri)
Olive tree of Samonas
Thyme
Oregano
Camomile
Mint
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Asperula Crassula
Carlina diae, Carlina of Dia
Anthemis Filicaulis, Slender-stemmed Chamomile
Dianthus Fruticosus Subsp. Sitiacus
Silene Holzmannii
Carlina Sitiensis
Bellevalia Sitiaca
Limonium Sitiacum
Viola Scorpiuroides
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Laurel
Rosemary
Common Basil
Honeysuckle
Oat
Chaste tree
Myrtle
Cretan Rockrose
Ophrys Sitiaca
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Mandrake
Androcymbium Rechingeri
Autumn Lady's-tresses
Tournefort Crocus
Orchis Sitiaca
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Mediterranean Meadow Saffron