Savory

At a Glance

Common name

Savory

Scientific name

Satureja hortensis

Family

Lamiaceae

Region

Mediterranean

Plant part

Aerial parts

Caffeine

Caffeine Free

Evidence

Insufficient

Safety review

Safety information on file

Botanical Description

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.

Also known as: Summer Savory, Bean Herb, Satureia

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 Preparation

Modern Evidence

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 describe the state of research for the traditional use discussed here, not a recommendation. Historical use does not imply effectiveness.