Pukkapedia
OPEN NATURE’S CUPBOARD TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE MAGIC OF ORGANIC HERBS WITH PUKKA’S HERBAL ENCYCLOPEDIA
CINNAMON
Full of sweet and stimulating essential oils, cinnamon is a long-time favourite for invigorating and warming the whole body, while generally making life more delicious. Cinnamon’s sweet spiciness comes from a combination of potent compounds including cinnamaldehyde and coumarin which gives this herb its distinctive flavour. Pukka teams cinnamon with star anise and ginger to create a warming, deeply spiced tea.
Soothing and nourishing
In traditional medicines, cinnamon is thought to benefit a cold and sluggish digestion, metabolism and circulation. In Ayurveda, India’s ancient health system, the bark of the tree is used as a major digestive herb. It is wonderfully warming, sweet and pungent. Additionally, cinnamon appears to strengthen nutritional absorption as well as playing an important role in balancing blood sugar and reducing insulin resistance.
Some history
Until the 16th century the origins of cinnamon were a fiercely guarded secret; global trade was controlled by wealthy Arabs who protected their monopoly and justified exorbitant prices by fabricating extraordinary tales, including how cinnamon was only found in giant birds’ nests perched on insurmountable mountain peaks, or in deep canyons guarded by flying snakes! To produce the traditional spice we see today, the bark is harvested and then either powdered or rolled into characteristic quills. The making of cinnamon quills is a traditional art in some countries.
OTHER HERBAL HEROES
Herbs to reinvigorate and warm the soul
Ginger A warming and protective spice. Renowned for stimulating blood circulation and relieving nausea. Mixed with honey, ginger can soothe a sore throat and clear the stuffy sinuses and congestion that may be experienced as part of a mild cold. Ginger is a Pukka favourite, featuring in Three Ginger or Lemon Ginger & Manuka Honey teas. Vanilla pod An elegant, trailing plant, vanilla supports itself on betel nut palms that act as host plants. Vanilla is actually part of the orchid family with a beautiful flower. Its tantalising scent and sweet taste has popularised this plant as a natural aphrodisiac and relaxant.
Licorice This magical plant not only has 50 times the natural sweetness of refined sugar with none of the calories, it’s also a herb that’s renowned for its calming and soothing properties. As well as Pukka Three Licorice tea, it’s also featured in many other blends to naturally sweeten and harmonise.