Nothing can be compared with traditional local varieties of fruits, from taste and nutrition to adaptation in harsh conditions. Luckily there are plenty on offer in all corners in Greece.

This period you can find a delicious ‘koromila’ or ‘bournela’ (Prunus cocomilia) in many colors and flavors, each one better than the other. Mediterranean countries cultivated it for 2000 years. Some of them are sweet and sour, and some just sweet – it depends on the period you buy them and the level of maturation.

Yellow, green, orange and deep red are visible everywhere from balconies to remote places in Greek forests.

They are deeply connected with religion, since their maturation occurs in summer and more specifically during August’s celebration of Mary, the Theotokos. Greeks have a saying “cry like koromilom” implying a nostalgic pure and deep emotion within a deep consciousness.

Koromila have emotional as well as nutritional power – they are rich in flavonoids, phenolics, and antioxidants, enhancing metabolism and immune system but also offering antioxidants. Also, you can find in them a great amount of vitamin C and A but also phosphorus and potassium.

An usual, fruit salad in Greek summer consists of watermelon, melon, grapes, koromila, and of course ‘straggisto’ – strained yogurt. In these days of heatwaves in Greece, this is exactly what you should treat you!

Evropi-Sofia Dalampira holds a PhD in Agricultural Economics and an MSc in Botany-Biology.

* The above is not medical advice but mere suggestions for improving your diet. Before reach herbal use you should consult your doctor, especially those who have health issues, are pregnant or are under the age of 6.