Shou Pu Erh
Pu Erh tea is a unique variety from Yunnan Province, China, distinguished by its special post-fermentation and ageing process. Named after the city of Pu’er, a historic tea trading hub, Pu Erh tea is classified into two main types: Sheng Pu Erh (raw Pu Erh) and Shou Pu Erh (ripe or cooked Pu Erh). Shou Pu Erh undergoes an accelerated fermentation process, developed in the 1970s to replicate the long natural ageing of Sheng Pu Erh. After harvesting, the tea leaves are withered, rolled and fermented in large, humid piles. This process gives Shou Pu Erh its characteristic dark colour and rich, earthy aromas. Compared to Sheng Pu Erh, Shou Pu Erh has a smoother, rounder taste.
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), also known as winter cherry or Indian ginseng, is an evergreen shrub from the nightshade family (Solanaceae). Native to Asia, Africa and Southern Europe, it grows to a height of 30–150cm. In traditional Ayurvedic medicine, Ashwagandha has been used for over 3000 years. Its roots and leaves contain withanolides, alkaloids and other bioactive compounds. Traditionally, Ashwagandha is used to support the nervous system, promote sleep and relaxation and enhance overall vitality. It is also considered an adaptogen, helping the body cope with stress more effectively. The name "Ashwagandha" comes from Sanskrit and means "smell of the horse," referring to the distinctive scent of the fresh root.
Ginkgo
The ginkgo tree (Ginkgo biloba) is one of the oldest tree species in the world and is often referred to as a "living fossil." Originally native to China, it is now cultivated worldwide. It is distinguished by its fan-shaped leaves and its unique ability to bear both fruit and flowers simultaneously. In traditional Chinese medicine, ginkgo has been used for over 2000 years. Its leaves contain flavonoids and terpenoids, known for their antioxidant properties. In Asia, ginkgo has long been regarded as a symbol of hope, longevity, fertility and vitality.
Cinnamon
The cinnamon tree (Cinnamomum zeylanicum) is a laurel plant native to Southeast Asia and is known for its many applications. The Egyptians used it for embalming as early as 2000 BC, and it has also been used in China and India for millennia to treat all kinds of ailments. The cinnamon tree has to grow for several years before the trunk is cut. The young shoots are cut and peeled after 2 years, before it curls into the distinctive cinnamon stick shape.
Turmeric
Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is a tropical plant from the ginger family. Originally native to South Asia, it is now cultivated in many tropical regions worldwide. The vibrant yellow root is dried and ground for use as a spice and natural dye. In traditional medicine, particularly Ayurveda, turmeric has been used for thousands of years. The root contains curcumin, the compound responsible for its distinctive colour. Turmeric is a key ingredient in curry powder, giving many dishes their characteristic yellow hue.
Mountain Tea
Mountain tea (Sideritis scardica) is native to the mountains of the Balkan Peninsula, including Bulgaria, Greece and Albania. For centuries, shepherds have enjoyed this tea while tending their flocks. Depending on the terroir, mountain and altitude, the plant develops different compounds and flavours. The highest quality mountain tea comes from plants growing at altitudes above 1200m. For premium mountain tea, only the upper, most succulent stems and the full, thorny umbels are hand-harvested and then gently air-dried to preserve their natural properties.
