What Do Greeks Eat When They Are Sick?

According to Greek tradition, a warm, homemade meal is often the first line of defense against illness. When asking what do Greeks eat when they are sick, the answer almost always involves nourishing, comforting foods rooted in the Mediterranean diet and ancient herbal wisdom.

Quick Summary

This article explores the traditional Greek foods and herbal remedies used to treat colds, flu, and upset stomachs. It covers the popular Avgolemono soup, other soothing dishes, and medicinal teas like mountain tea.

Key Points

• Avgolemono is the primary sick-day dish: This egg-and-lemon chicken soup is the quintessential Greek comfort food for illness, valued for its nutrients and soothing properties.

• Herbal teas provide natural relief: Greeks use various herbal teas, such as Tsai tou Vounou (mountain tea) and sage, to combat cold and flu symptoms naturally.

• Honey and lemon are potent remedies: The mixture of honey and fresh lemon is a classic, simple cure for sore throats and coughs.

• Rakomelo offers a strong remedy: This warm alcoholic drink with honey and spices is a traditional, though not child-friendly, option for severe sore throats.

• Probiotic yogurt aids digestion: Plain Greek yogurt is a gentle and probiotic-rich food that helps settle an upset stomach.

• Simple broths and grains are common: When the appetite is low, Greeks rely on easy-to-digest foods like rice or pastina cooked in a simple broth.

The Ultimate Comfort: Avgolemono Soup

For generations, the go-to remedy for a Greek feeling unwell has been a bowl of Avgolemono soup. This traditional egg-and-lemon soup is prized for its ability to soothe a sore throat, clear congestion, and provide vital nutrients. The genius of Avgolemono lies in its simple yet powerful ingredients: rich chicken broth, rice or orzo pasta, eggs, and plenty of fresh lemon juice. The combination is both gentle on an upset stomach and packed with immune-boosting properties. The hot broth helps to loosen mucus, while the lemon provides a significant dose of vitamin C. Many Greek families have their own cherished recipe, passed down from a yiayia (grandmother), making it a truly authentic and comforting sick-day meal.

Traditional Greek Herbal Teas

In addition to nourishing foods, a variety of herbal teas are central to Greek home remedies. Sourced from the country's rich mountain flora, these teas are brewed to help with different ailments. For a cold, sore throat, or respiratory issues, Greeks often turn to specific herbs with centuries of medicinal use.

Common Greek Herbal Teas for Illness:

• Tsai tou Vounou (Greek Mountain Tea): Made from the Sideritis plant, this tea is known as "ironwort" and has been used since ancient times to help prevent colds and aid digestion.
• Sage Tea: Highly regarded for its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, sage tea is particularly effective for soothing sore throats.
• Chamomile Tea: A gentle and relaxing tea, chamomile is often used to calm the stomach, reduce inflammation, and promote rest.
• Dittany of Crete: Known as "stomachohorto" (stomach herb), this wild herb is a traditional Cretan remedy for stomach aches and other digestive problems.

Other Greek Remedies and Soothing Foods

While Avgolemono and herbal teas are staples, other foods and drinks also play a role in Greek sick-day traditions.

• Honey and Lemon: A classic sore throat remedy, Greeks often mix honey with warm water and lemon juice to coat and soothe irritation.
• Rakomelo: A warm, mixed alcoholic drink with raki, honey, and spices like cinnamon, this is sometimes used as a traditional remedy for coughs and sore throats, particularly in Crete.
• Plain Greek Yogurt: Rich in probiotics, plain Greek yogurt can be very soothing for an upset stomach and helps support a healthy gut microbiome. It provides protein when a full meal is too much.
• Pastina in Broth: A concept similar to Italian custom, bland and small pasta like pastina cooked in a simple broth is an easy-to-digest option for those with a sensitive stomach.
• Lentil Soup (Fasolada): A hearty and nourishing soup packed with protein and fiber, lentil soup is a great option for building strength during recovery.

Comparison Table: Greek Sick Foods vs. Common Western Alternatives

Feature	Greek Sick-Day Foods	Common Western Alternatives
Primary Soup	Avgolemono (chicken, egg, lemon, rice)	Chicken Noodle Soup (chicken, noodles, carrots)
Soothing Drink	Tsai tou Vounou (mountain tea) with honey and lemon	Standard hot lemon and honey drink with water
Stomach Settler	Plain Greek yogurt with probiotics	Bland foods like crackers or toast
Key Flavor Profile	Tangy, rich, and herby	Often savory and salty
Traditional Remedy	Honey and lemon with raki (Rakomelo)	Hot toddy (whiskey, honey, lemon, hot water)
Nutritional Focus	Immune support, hydration, and gentle protein	Hydration and mild energy

Conclusion

When a Greek person falls ill, the traditional approach is to rely on nourishing comfort foods and natural remedies passed down through generations. The practice is centered on providing the body with the right balance of soothing, easy-to-digest foods and potent herbal infusions. From the iconic Avgolemono soup to the warming effects of herbal teas, these Greek traditions offer a holistic approach to healing that not only eases symptoms but also feels deeply comforting. While modern medicine is always the primary course of action for serious illnesses, these culinary traditions remain a cherished way to nourish the body and soul back to health. The foundation of the healthy Mediterranean diet ensures that even when sick, the food provides a substantial immune boost.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Avgolemono soup?

Avgolemono is a traditional Greek soup made with a rich chicken or vegetable broth, rice or orzo pasta, and a signature egg-and-lemon sauce that gives it a creamy, tangy flavor.

Why is Avgolemono good for you when you are sick?

The hot broth and lemon help to clear congestion and provide vitamin C, while the protein from the chicken and eggs helps to boost the immune system.

Do Greeks use herbs for healing when sick?

Yes, many Greeks use a variety of indigenous herbs in tea form, such as Greek mountain tea (Sideritis) for colds and sage for sore throats.

What is Rakomelo and when is it used?

Rakomelo is a warm, spiced alcoholic drink made from raki, honey, and herbs. It is traditionally consumed in the winter to help soothe a cough or sore throat, especially in Crete.

Is Greek yogurt helpful for an upset stomach?

Yes, plain Greek yogurt is high in probiotics, which can help promote healthy gut bacteria and soothe an upset stomach.

What is a natural Greek remedy for a sore throat?

A classic remedy is simply mixing honey with warm water and fresh lemon juice. The honey coats the throat while the lemon provides antiseptic properties.

Are Greek sick-day traditions based on science?

While often rooted in folk wisdom, many Greek sick-day traditions, such as consuming warm broths and vitamin C, align with modern nutritional science for aiding recovery.