Savory

Identity

Common Name

Savory

Scientific Name

Satureja hortensis

Botanical Family

Lamiaceae

Native Region

Mediterranean basin

Cultivation Regions

Mediterranean, Europe, North America

Plant Parts Used

Aerial parts

Synonyms

Summer Savory, Bean Herb, Satureia

Caffeine Level

Caffeine Free

A bushy upright annual with small opposite narrow lance-shaped dark green leaves on square stems and small clusters of tiny tubular pale lilac-white flowers; the aerial parts are the part used.

Historical Background

Savory (satureia, the 'satyr's herb') has been a Mediterranean and Roman culinary and digestive herb for millennia, its peppery piney leaves flavoring beans and stews. A gentle savory tea is traditionally sipped for digestion and the 'bean's herb' reputation of reducing gas.

Earliest recorded uses: Mediterranean and Roman traditions for millennia; a savory culinary and digestive ('satureia') herb.

Traditional Uses

These uses document historical traditions and do not imply proven effectiveness.

Flavor & Aroma

Aroma: Warm, peppery, piney, herbaceous

Tea Information

Research Summary

Savory has a tradition for digestion and reducing gas; preclinical work shows antioxidant and antimicrobial activity (carvacrol, thymol). Clinical evidence is insufficient; it is not a treatment for digestive disorders, infection, or any disease, and the pure essential oil is unsafe internally.

Evidence levels reflect the currently available scientific literature and may change as new research emerges. Where evidence is limited or conflicting, this is stated plainly.

References & Sources