In the village of Fikardou, plants thrive despite the absence of residents. Anise, with its towering growth, stands as tall as a person. Roses, essential in their symbiotic relationship with grapevines, serve as early warning signs for vineyard health. The most fascinating plant is the red valerian, or Centranthus ruber, which has several intriguing names. In Spanish, it’s called "milamores" or "a thousand loves," while in Catalonia, it's known as "hierba de San Jorge" or "St. George's herb." In English, it goes by names like spur valerian, kiss-me-quick, fox’s brush, devil’s beard, or Jupiter’s beard.
While red valerian is often seen as a decorative plant in some countries, in Cyprus, it grows wild, its natural habitat being the Mediterranean. Blooming from spring through sometimes October, it fills gardens with a pleasant aroma, requires minimal care, and is drought-resistant and pest-free. Its seeds disperse easily by wind, allowing it to spread quickly and sometimes become invasive.
Though some sources claim red valerian is not medicinal, this is likely a confusion with true valerian (Valeriana officinalis). Other sources, however, attribute medicinal properties to red valerian, including calming effects, spasm relief, sleep improvement, and help with nervous tics and epileptic seizures. Typically, the roots are harvested in autumn, dried, and brewed.
Here’s a recipe for a sleep-improving brew: Mix equal parts of red valerian roots, passionflower, orange blossoms, and lemon balm. Use two tablespoons per half-liter of water, boil for one minute, steep for ten minutes, and strain. This brew can be sipped throughout the day. If only red valerian is available, limit the intake to one glass in the evening.
For a calming effect, the entire plant can be dried, crushed, and placed in small pillows. These were traditionally used to soothe restless children at bedtime.
In challenging times, it’s worth noting that red valerian is edible and used in salads (fresh or boiled leaves) and soups (roots) in many countries.
Finally, red valerian is believed to have magical properties in Spanish folklore. A pouch of its crushed roots hung in the house was thought to protect against lightning strikes, and its leaves were used in love potions and to reconcile quarreling lovers, perhaps explaining its name "milamores".
Villages in Cyprus represent a unique cultural and historical layer that reveals the true soul of the island and its people. On this brief journey, you can visit the villages of Vavatsinia and Fikardou, immersing yourself in a plethora of stunning views, stories, tastes, smells, and sounds from the eastern region of the Troodos mountain range.
Vavatsinia, named after the mulberry trees, is one of the cleanest ecological zones in Cyprus. As soon as you step out of your car or bus, the air itself tells you of its purity. Strolling through the village and enjoying the views, you can then head through the pass into the enchanting Machairas Forest. From several lookout points, you'll be treated to breathtaking views, including the picturesque Machairas Monastery nestled in the Troodos Mountains' scenic gorges.
Finally, the village of Fikardou, considered the best European heritage village in Cyprus, stands out with its entirely stone-built and superbly preserved architecture. It features a single tavern run by the village’s only permanent resident. Here, you can end your journey by savoring halloumi cheese, fresh salad, and chilled homemade white wine, truly experiencing the authentic flavors of Cyprus.
Don't be afraid to get lost in new places!
