The Botanicals of Ceylon Select
Nature's Finest Ingredients, Steeped in History
Every cup of tea tells a story.
At Ceylon Select, we believe that understanding what is in your cup makes every sip more meaningful. Our carefully selected teas, herbs, flowers, and spices have been enjoyed for thousands of years—not only for their exceptional flavours and aromas, but also for the traditions, cultures, and history they represent.
Many of these botanicals travelled the ancient Silk Road and maritime spice routes, connecting Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and Europe. Prized ingredients such as True Ceylon Cinnamon, black pepper, cardamom, cloves, and ginger shaped global trade and became part of the culinary and wellness traditions of countless civilizations. Sri Lanka, renowned for its world-famous cinnamon and exceptional teas, has played an important role in this remarkable story.
Today, these botanicals continue to be enjoyed around the world in teas, foods, and traditional wellness practices, while modern science explores the naturally occurring compounds that make them so fascinating.
As a Registered Holistic Nutritionist, Certified Tea Sommelier, and lifelong tea enthusiast, I created our blends to honour both traditional wisdom and modern research. Every ingredient is chosen not only for its wellness heritage, but also for the flavour, aroma, colour, and balance it brings to every cup.
Explore Our Botanicals
Discover the history, traditional uses, culinary heritage, modern scientific interest, flavour profile, and fascinating stories behind every ingredient in the Ceylon Select collection.
Whether it is the warmth of ginger, the elegance of rose petals, the vibrant colour of butterfly pea flower, or the delicate sweetness of True Ceylon Cinnamon, every botanical has a remarkable story waiting to be discovered.
True Ceylon Cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum)
Often referred to as the "True Cinnamon," Ceylon Cinnamon is one of Sri Lanka's most treasured gifts to the world. Native to the island and cultivated for centuries, it is prized for its delicate, naturally sweet flavour and refined aroma. Long before the modern spice trade, Ceylon Cinnamon was among the world's most valuable commodities, travelling along ancient maritime spice routes to Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, where it became a symbol of luxury and prosperity. Today, Sri Lanka remains the world's leading producer of authentic True Ceylon Cinnamon, renowned for its exceptional quality.
Unlike the stronger, more pungent Cassia cinnamon commonly found in supermarkets, Ceylon Cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum) has a lighter, sweeter flavour with soft citrus and floral notes. It is enjoyed around the world in baking, curries, rice dishes, desserts, hot chocolate, coffee, mulled beverages, and tea blends, adding warmth and depth without overpowering other flavours.
For thousands of years, Ceylon Cinnamon has held an important place in Ayurveda, Sri Lankan Hela Wedakama, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and many other traditional healing systems. Traditionally, it has been used to support healthy digestion, circulation, and overall wellbeing, and has long been appreciated as a warming spice that brings balance and comfort.
Modern research continues to explore cinnamon's naturally occurring phytochemicals, including cinnamaldehyde, polyphenols, procyanidins, and other antioxidant compounds. Scientists are studying their potential roles in supporting healthy inflammatory responses, cardiovascular wellness, healthy blood sugar levels already within the normal range, and antioxidant activity.
Beyond its remarkable wellness heritage, Ceylon Cinnamon brings a smooth, naturally sweet warmth and inviting aroma that makes every cup of tea feel comforting and memorable.
Did You Know? True Ceylon Cinnamon naturally contains much lower levels of coumarin than Cassia cinnamon, making it the preferred choice for regular culinary use. It is also one of the few spices native to Sri Lanka, where its cultivation has been passed down through generations of skilled peelers.
Experience True Ceylon Cinnamon in these Ceylon Select teas: Immune Tea, Sugar Crush, Forever Young Detox, Tea Amore, England's Rose, Yummy Tummy Chai, Mint Hibiscus Bliss, and Blue Hawaii.
Ginger (Zingiber officinale)
Ginger is one of the world's oldest and most celebrated spices, prized for both its distinctive flavour and its long history in traditional wellness. Native to Southeast Asia, this aromatic root was among the valuable commodities traded along the ancient Silk Road and maritime spice routes, eventually becoming a staple in cuisines around the world. Today, ginger is enjoyed in curries, soups, stir-fries, baked goods, desserts, wellness beverages, and countless traditional recipes.
For thousands of years, ginger has been an important herb in Ayurveda, Sri Lankan Hela Wedakama, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and many other traditional healing systems. It has traditionally been used to support healthy digestion, promote circulation, warm the body, ease occasional nausea, and maintain overall wellbeing.
Modern research continues to study ginger's naturally occurring bioactive compounds, including gingerols, shogaols, and zingerone. These phytochemicals are being investigated for their antioxidant properties and their potential roles in supporting digestive health, healthy inflammatory responses, and helping reduce occasional nausea, including motion sickness and pregnancy-related morning sickness.
With its warm, lively, slightly citrusy flavour and inviting aroma, ginger brings depth, comfort, and natural spice to tea blends, making it one of the world's most loved botanicals.
Found in Ceylon Select: Immune Tea, Ginger Turmeric Green Tea, Sugar Crush, Forever Young Detox, Tea Amore, Yummy Tummy Chai, and Blue Hawaii.
Turmeric (Curcuma longa)
Known as the "Golden Spice," turmeric has been treasured for more than 4,000 years for its vibrant colour, distinctive flavour, and remarkable place in traditional wellness. Native to South Asia, turmeric has long been an essential ingredient in Indian and Sri Lankan cuisine, adding its rich golden hue to curries, rice dishes, soups, beverages, and spice blends. It was also one of the prized spices traded along the ancient maritime spice routes, introducing its unique flavour and cultural significance to the world.
In Ayurveda, Sri Lankan Hela Wedakama, and Traditional Chinese Medicine, turmeric has traditionally been used to support healthy digestion, joint comfort, liver health, and overall wellbeing. It has also played an important role in cultural and religious ceremonies throughout South Asia for centuries, symbolizing purity, prosperity, and good health.
Modern research continues to study turmeric's naturally occurring curcuminoids, particularly curcumin, along with volatile oils and antioxidant compounds. These naturally occurring phytochemicals are among the most extensively researched plant compounds and are being investigated for their potential roles in supporting healthy inflammatory responses, antioxidant activity, joint health, and overall wellness.
With its warm, earthy flavour and beautiful golden colour, turmeric adds depth, richness, and comforting warmth to botanical tea blends.
Did You Know? Curcumin, turmeric's best-known natural compound, is naturally absorbed more efficiently when consumed with black pepper, making these two spices a time-honoured pairing in both traditional cuisine and Ayurveda.
Experience Turmeric in these Ceylon Select teas: Immune Tea, Ginger Turmeric Green Tea, Sugar Crush, Forever Young Detox, and Yummy Tummy Chai.
Black Pepper (Piper nigrum)
Often called "Black Gold," black pepper is one of the world's oldest and most valuable spices. Native to the Malabar Coast of India, it became one of the driving forces behind the ancient spice trade, with merchants transporting it along the Silk Road and maritime spice routes to Europe, the Middle East, and beyond. For centuries, black pepper was so highly prized that it was sometimes used as currency and was considered a symbol of wealth.
Today, black pepper is the world's most widely traded spice, found in nearly every cuisine. It enhances the flavour of vegetables, soups, sauces, curries, meats, seafood, pasta, salads, and countless savoury dishes. Beyond its culinary importance, black pepper has been valued in Ayurveda, Sri Lankan Hela Wedakama, and Traditional Chinese Medicine for supporting healthy digestion and promoting the absorption of other botanicals.
Modern research has focused on piperine, the naturally occurring alkaloid responsible for black pepper's characteristic heat. Piperine is widely studied for its antioxidant properties and its remarkable ability to enhance the absorption of certain plant compounds, including curcumin from turmeric. Black pepper also contains essential oils and polyphenols that continue to attract scientific interest.
Its bold, warming flavour adds depth, complexity, and gentle spice to botanical tea blends, perfectly complementing ingredients such as turmeric, ginger, and cinnamon.
Did You Know? Black pepper is one of the most traded spices in history, and its global demand helped shape international trade routes that connected continents for centuries.
Experience Black Pepper in these Ceylon Select teas: Immune Tea, Ginger Turmeric Green Tea, Sugar Crush, Forever Young Detox, and Yummy Tummy Chai.
Clove (Syzygium aromaticum)
Known as one of the world's most aromatic spices, clove is the unopened flower bud of an evergreen tree native to Indonesia. Its rich fragrance and warm, slightly sweet flavour made it one of the most valuable spices traded along the ancient Silk Road and maritime spice routes. Today, cloves remain an essential ingredient in cuisines around the world, adding depth to curries, rice dishes, baked goods, desserts, mulled beverages, chai, and spice blends.
For centuries, cloves have been valued in Ayurveda, Sri Lankan Hela Wedakama, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and other traditional healing systems. They have traditionally been used to support healthy digestion, freshen the breath, and provide a warming sensation. Cloves have also long been appreciated in traditional oral care practices.
Modern research has focused on cloves' naturally occurring compounds, particularly eugenol, one of the most studied plant compounds found in spices. Cloves also contain polyphenols, flavonoids, and other antioxidant compounds that continue to attract scientific interest.
With its warm, sweet, and intensely aromatic flavour, clove brings richness and comforting spice to tea blends, creating a full-bodied and inviting cup.
Did You Know? Cloves were once so valuable that wars were fought over control of the islands where they were grown.
Experience Clove in these Ceylon Select teas: Yummy Tummy Chai.
Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum)
Revered as the "Queen of Spices," cardamom is one of the world's most elegant and aromatic spices. Native to the lush forests of southern India and Sri Lanka, it has been cultivated for thousands of years and was highly prized by ancient civilizations for both its distinctive fragrance and exceptional flavour. Today, cardamom remains a treasured ingredient in Scandinavian baking, Middle Eastern coffee, Indian chai, Sri Lankan cuisine, desserts, curries, and festive celebrations around the world.
For centuries, cardamom has held an important place in Ayurveda, Sri Lankan Hela Wedakama, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and traditional Arabic medicine. It has traditionally been enjoyed to support healthy digestion, freshen the breath, and bring warmth and balance to herbal preparations. Cardamom is also one of the defining spices in authentic chai, where its sweet, floral aroma creates a beautifully balanced cup.
Modern research continues to explore cardamom's naturally occurring essential oils, including cineole, terpinyl acetate, and antioxidant phytochemicals. These naturally occurring compounds are being studied for their antioxidant activity and their potential roles in digestive wellness and overall health.
With its sweet, floral, slightly citrusy flavour and captivating aroma, cardamom brings elegance, warmth, and complexity to every tea blend.
Did You Know? Cardamom is the world's third most expensive spice by weight, after saffron and vanilla, earning its reputation as one of the finest spices in the world.
Experience Cardamom in these Ceylon Select teas: Yummy Tummy Chai.
Coriander (Coriandrum sativum)
Coriander is one of the few plants whose leaves and seeds are both widely enjoyed in cuisines around the world. While the fresh leaves are known as cilantro in many countries, the seeds offer a warm, citrusy spice that has been used for thousands of years in cooking and traditional herbal practices. Coriander travelled ancient trade routes from the Mediterranean and Asia, eventually becoming a staple ingredient in Indian, Middle Eastern, Sri Lankan, African, and Latin American cuisine.
In Ayurveda, coriander seeds have traditionally been valued for supporting healthy digestion and helping maintain the body's natural balance. They are also used in Sri Lankan Hela Wedakama and many traditional herbal systems, where they are appreciated for their gentle, soothing nature and refreshing flavour.
Researchers continue to study coriander's naturally occurring essential oils, including linalool, along with its polyphenols and antioxidant compounds. These naturally occurring phytochemicals are being investigated for their antioxidant activity and their potential role in supporting digestive wellness.
Coriander adds a light citrus note with subtle sweetness and gentle spice, creating balance and complexity in tea blends.
Did You Know? Coriander seeds have been discovered in ancient Egyptian tombs, showing they have been valued for more than 3,000 years.
Experience Coriander in these Ceylon Select teas: Immune Tea and Yummy Tummy Chai.
Cumin (Cuminum cyminum)
Recognizable by its warm, earthy aroma, cumin has been an essential culinary spice for thousands of years. It is widely used throughout India, Sri Lanka, the Middle East, North Africa, Mexico, and the Mediterranean, bringing depth and character to curries, soups, rice dishes, vegetables, breads, and spice blends.
In Ayurveda, cumin has long been appreciated for supporting healthy digestion and is frequently paired with coriander and fennel as part of traditional digestive herbal combinations. It also plays an important role in Sri Lankan Hela Wedakama, where it has been enjoyed in traditional herbal preparations and home cooking for generations.
Modern scientific research continues to explore cumin's naturally occurring compounds, including cuminaldehyde, terpenes, flavonoids, and other antioxidant phytochemicals. Researchers are studying their biological activity and their potential role in supporting digestive health and overall wellness.
Cumin contributes a warm, earthy, slightly nutty flavour that adds depth and harmony to spice-based tea blends.
Did You Know? Cumin has been cultivated for over 4,000 years and was so highly valued in ancient civilizations that it was used as both a spice and a symbol of hospitality.
Experience Cumin in these Ceylon Select teas: Yummy Tummy Chai.
Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)
With its naturally sweet, delicate liquorice flavour, fennel has been enjoyed as both a vegetable and a spice for thousands of years. The seeds are widely used in Mediterranean, Indian, Middle Eastern, and Sri Lankan cuisine, while many cultures enjoy chewing fennel seeds after meals as a traditional digestive refreshment.
For generations, fennel has been valued in Ayurveda, Sri Lankan Hela Wedakama, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and European herbal traditions. It has traditionally been used to support healthy digestion, ease occasional bloating, and freshen the breath, making it one of the world's most popular culinary herbs.
Modern research has identified naturally occurring compounds including anethole, flavonoids, and antioxidant phytochemicals, which continue to be studied for their biological activity and digestive wellness properties.
Its naturally sweet aroma and gentle herbal character bring smoothness and balance to warming tea blends.
Did You Know? In many parts of India, roasted fennel seeds are traditionally enjoyed after meals as a natural mouth freshener.
Experience Fennel in these Ceylon Select teas: Yummy Tummy Chai.
Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus)
Fresh, citrusy, and wonderfully aromatic, lemongrass is a tropical herb enjoyed throughout Asia, Africa, and South America. It is widely used in soups, curries, stir-fries, herbal infusions, and refreshing beverages, where its bright lemon aroma adds freshness without the acidity of citrus fruit.
Lemongrass has been valued for centuries in Ayurveda, Sri Lankan Hela Wedakama, and many Southeast Asian traditional practices. It has traditionally been enjoyed to support healthy digestion, promote relaxation, and provide a refreshing, uplifting herbal infusion.
Scientists continue to study lemongrass' naturally occurring essential oils, particularly citral, geraniol, and limonene, along with its antioxidant plant compounds. These phytochemicals have attracted interest for their aromatic properties and potential role in supporting overall wellness.
Its lively citrus flavour and clean finish brighten tea blends while complementing herbs, spices, and green tea beautifully.
Did You Know? Despite its name, lemongrass is not related to lemons—it belongs to the grass family and gets its refreshing aroma from its naturally occurring essential oils.
Experience Lemongrass in these Ceylon Select teas: Sugar Crush and Forever Young Detox.
Hibiscus (Hibiscus sabdariffa)
With its brilliant ruby-red petals and refreshing tart flavour, hibiscus is one of the world's most recognizable botanical ingredients. Enjoyed across Africa, the Caribbean, the Middle East, Asia, and Latin America, hibiscus has been used for centuries to prepare vibrant herbal infusions, refreshing iced drinks, syrups, jams, desserts, and traditional beverages.
In Ayurveda, Sri Lankan Hela Wedakama, and many traditional herbal systems, hibiscus has long been appreciated as a cooling botanical. Traditionally, it has been enjoyed to support overall wellness, healthy digestion, and cardiovascular health, while providing a naturally refreshing beverage, particularly in warm climates.
Modern research has focused on hibiscus' naturally occurring anthocyanins, polyphenols, organic acids, and other antioxidant compounds. These naturally occurring phytochemicals continue to be studied for their antioxidant activity and their potential roles in supporting cardiovascular wellness and healthy blood pressure already within the normal range.
Beyond its wellness heritage, hibiscus brings a bright ruby colour, refreshing tartness, and fruity flavour that creates a vibrant and uplifting cup of tea.
Did You Know? Hibiscus tea is enjoyed under many different names around the world, including karkadé in Egypt, agua de Jamaica in Mexico, and sorrel in the Caribbean.
Experience Hibiscus in these Ceylon Select teas: Immune Tea, Tea Amore, Mint Hibiscus Bliss, and TranquiliTea.
Butterfly Pea Flower (Clitoria ternatea)
Few botanicals capture the imagination quite like the Butterfly Pea Flower. Native to Southeast Asia, its vivid blue petals have been used for centuries as a natural food colouring and herbal infusion. Today, it has become popular around the world for its striking appearance and the magical colour transformation that occurs when lemon or other citrus is added, turning the infusion from deep blue to brilliant purple.
Butterfly pea has a long history in Ayurveda and traditional Southeast Asian medicine, where it has traditionally been used to support memory, mental clarity, relaxation, and overall wellbeing. It has also been used to naturally colour rice, desserts, beverages, and festive dishes throughout the region.
Researchers continue to study butterfly pea flower for its naturally occurring anthocyanins, particularly ternatins, along with flavonoids and other antioxidant compounds. These unique plant pigments are responsible for its vibrant blue colour and are of growing scientific interest.
With its smooth, earthy flavour and spectacular natural colour, butterfly pea transforms every cup into a memorable tea experience.
Did You Know? Butterfly pea flowers contain one of nature's rare blue pigments, making them a favourite natural colouring for foods and beverages around the world.
Experience Butterfly Pea Flower in these Ceylon Select teas: Forever Young Detox, TranquiliTea, and Blue Hawaii.
Rose Petals (Rosa spp.)
Elegant, fragrant, and timeless, rose petals have been cherished for thousands of years as symbols of beauty, love, and celebration. Beyond the garden, edible roses have found their way into cuisines around the world, flavouring teas, desserts, chocolates, syrups, jams, and the famous rose water used throughout Middle Eastern, Indian, Persian, and Mediterranean cooking.
For centuries, roses have held a special place in Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and many traditional herbal practices, where they have been enjoyed to promote relaxation, emotional balance, and overall wellbeing. Their delicate fragrance has also made roses one of the world's most treasured ingredients in perfumes and skincare.
Modern research has identified naturally occurring polyphenols, flavonoids, and aromatic essential oils that contribute to the flower's distinctive fragrance and antioxidant properties. Scientists continue to explore these naturally occurring compounds and their potential role in supporting overall wellness.
Rose petals lend a soft floral aroma and elegant sweetness that create a beautifully balanced and luxurious cup of tea.
Did You Know? More than 300 species of roses grow around the world, and edible rose petals have been enjoyed in both food and beverages for centuries.
Experience Rose Petals in these Ceylon Select teas: England's Rose.
Peppermint (Mentha × piperita)
Refreshing, cooling, and unmistakably aromatic, peppermint is one of the world's best-loved herbs. Its crisp flavour has made it a favourite in teas, desserts, chocolates, confectionery, beverages, sauces, and cuisines around the globe. Whether enjoyed hot or cold, peppermint delivers a naturally clean and invigorating taste.
In Ayurveda, European herbal traditions, and many other traditional wellness systems, peppermint has long been valued for supporting healthy digestion and providing a refreshing herbal infusion. It has also traditionally been enjoyed after meals and appreciated for its cooling sensation and fresh aroma.
Modern research has focused on peppermint's naturally occurring menthol, menthone, flavonoids, and essential oils. These naturally occurring compounds continue to be studied for their antioxidant activity and their potential role in digestive comfort and overall wellbeing.
Peppermint contributes a bright, cooling freshness that balances fruity and floral ingredients while creating a clean, refreshing finish.
Did You Know? Peppermint is a natural hybrid of watermint and spearmint and has been cultivated for more than 300 years.
Experience Peppermint in these Ceylon Select teas: Mint Hibiscus Bliss.
Coconut (Cocos nucifera)
Often called the "Tree of Life," the coconut palm has nourished tropical communities for thousands of years. Nearly every part of the tree has a purpose, providing food, drink, fibre, building materials, and traditional remedies. Coconut is widely enjoyed throughout Sri Lanka, Southeast Asia, the Caribbean, Africa, and the Pacific Islands, where it plays an essential role in everyday cooking and cultural traditions.
In Ayurveda and Sri Lankan traditional practices, coconut has long been appreciated as a nourishing food associated with cooling and hydration. From fresh coconut water to creamy coconut milk and fragrant dried coconut, it remains one of nature's most versatile foods.
Modern research continues to explore coconut's naturally occurring medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), polyphenols, and other plant compounds. These naturally occurring components are being studied for their nutritional properties and their role in a balanced diet.
Its naturally creamy sweetness and delicate tropical aroma create a smooth, comforting cup while pairing beautifully with spices and botanicals.
Did You Know? A mature coconut palm can produce dozens of coconuts each year, and in Sri Lanka the coconut tree is affectionately known as the "Tree of Life" because of its many uses.
Experience Coconut in these Ceylon Select teas: Blue Hawaii.
Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica)
Few herbs are as closely woven into Sri Lankan culture as Gotu Kola. Growing abundantly throughout tropical Asia, this vibrant leafy plant has been enjoyed for thousands of years as both a nutritious food and a treasured botanical. In Sri Lanka, fresh gotu kola is commonly prepared as a traditional sambol (salad), enjoyed alongside everyday meals and celebrated as one of the country's most cherished leafy greens.
In Ayurveda, Sri Lankan Hela Wedakama, and Traditional Chinese Medicine, Gotu Kola has long been regarded as a rejuvenating herb. Traditionally, it has been valued for supporting memory, concentration, mental clarity, and overall wellbeing, earning it a reputation as one of Ayurveda's most respected botanicals.
Modern research has focused on Gotu Kola's naturally occurring triterpenoids, including asiaticoside, madecassoside, and other antioxidant plant compounds. These bioactive phytochemicals continue to be studied for their potential roles in cognitive health, skin health, healthy circulation, and overall wellness.
With its mild, fresh herbal flavour, Gotu Kola brings a clean, earthy character to tea blends while celebrating one of Sri Lanka's most beloved botanical traditions.
Did You Know? In Sri Lanka, Gotu Kola is enjoyed not only as a herb but also as a nutritious vegetable, making it one of the few botanicals commonly found in both the kitchen and traditional wellness practices.
Experience Gotu Kola in these Ceylon Select teas: Forever Young Detox.
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)
Often called the "King of Ayurvedic Herbs," Ashwagandha has been treasured for more than 3,000 years as one of Ayurveda's most celebrated botanicals. Native to India and neighbouring regions, its name translates to "smell of the horse," symbolizing the strength, vitality, and endurance traditionally associated with the plant.
For centuries, Ashwagandha has been valued in Ayurveda as an adaptogen—a botanical traditionally used to help the body adapt to physical and emotional stress while promoting balance and resilience. It has also long been regarded as a rasayana, or rejuvenating herb, traditionally associated with vitality, reproductive wellness, and a healthy libido. For generations, it has been used by both men and women to support sexual wellness, stamina, and overall vitality, making it one of Ayurveda's most respected herbs for promoting healthy intimate wellbeing.
Modern research continues to study Ashwagandha's naturally occurring withanolides, alkaloids, and antioxidant compounds. These bioactive phytochemicals are being investigated for their potential roles in supporting healthy stress responses, cognitive function, restful sleep, physical performance, reproductive health, and sexual wellbeing. Researchers continue to explore the relationship between stress reduction and healthy sexual function, an area where Ashwagandha has attracted significant scientific interest.
With its mild earthy flavour, Ashwagandha blends beautifully with warming spices and botanicals, creating comforting and balanced tea infusions.
Did You Know? Ashwagandha has been treasured for over three millennia and remains one of the most researched herbs in modern herbal science, with growing interest in its traditional role in supporting vitality, resilience, and sexual wellness.
Experience Ashwagandha in these Ceylon Select teas: Tea Amore, a botanical blend inspired by herbs traditionally associated with vitality and romance, and TranquiliTea, where it complements calming botanicals to promote balance and relaxation.
Moringa (Moringa oleifera)
Known around the world as the "Miracle Tree," Moringa has earned its reputation as one of nature's most nutrient-rich plants. Native to the Indian subcontinent and widely cultivated throughout tropical regions, nearly every part of the tree has been used for food, traditional wellness, and everyday living for centuries.
In Ayurveda, Sri Lankan Hela Wedakama, and many traditional cultures, moringa leaves have long been valued as a nourishing food that supports vitality and overall wellness. Rich in naturally occurring vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and plant nutrients, moringa continues to be enjoyed as part of a healthy lifestyle.
Researchers continue to explore moringa's naturally occurring polyphenols, flavonoids, chlorogenic acid, quercetin, and other bioactive compounds. These phytochemicals are being studied for their antioxidant properties and their potential roles in supporting healthy inflammatory responses, metabolic health, and overall wellbeing.
Its fresh, green flavour adds a gentle herbal note that pairs beautifully with green tea and complementary botanicals.
Did You Know? Moringa is often called the "Tree of Life" in many cultures because nearly every part of the tree—from its leaves to its seeds—has a practical use.
Experience Moringa in these Ceylon Select teas: Sugar Crush and Forever Young Detox.
Bitter Gourd (Momordica charantia)
Despite its distinctive bitter taste, Bitter Gourd, also known as Bitter Melon, has been treasured for centuries in traditional cuisines and herbal practices throughout Asia, Africa, the Caribbean, and South America. It is commonly enjoyed as a vegetable in curries, stir-fries, soups, and stuffed dishes, where its unique flavour is appreciated as part of many cultural food traditions.
In Ayurveda, Sri Lankan Hela Wedakama, and Traditional Chinese Medicine, Bitter Gourd has long been valued for supporting healthy metabolism and maintaining healthy blood sugar levels already within the normal range. It remains one of the most recognized traditional botanicals used in everyday wellness.
Modern research has identified naturally occurring compounds including charantin, polypeptide-p, momordicosides, and other antioxidant phytochemicals. These naturally occurring constituents continue to be studied for their potential roles in metabolic health and glucose metabolism.
Its pleasantly bitter character adds depth and balance to botanical tea blends, complementing warming spices and fresh herbs.
Did You Know? Although called a vegetable in the kitchen, Bitter Gourd is botanically classified as a fruit because it develops from the flowering part of the plant and contains seeds.
Experience Bitter Gourd in these Ceylon Select teas: Sugar Crush.
Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra)
Naturally sweet and wonderfully soothing, Licorice Root has been enjoyed for more than 4,000 years, making it one of the world's oldest recorded herbal botanicals. Used throughout Asia, Europe, and the Middle East, it has traditionally flavoured teas, herbal preparations, confectionery, and beverages long before refined sugar became widely available.
In Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and many traditional herbal systems, licorice root has long been appreciated for supporting digestive health and soothing the throat. It is also widely used by herbalists to help harmonize botanical formulations because of its naturally sweet flavour.
Modern research has focused on licorice root's naturally occurring glycyrrhizin, liquiritin, flavonoids, and antioxidant compounds. These bioactive phytochemicals continue to be studied for their biological activity and their traditional roles in digestive and respiratory wellness.
Its smooth sweetness naturally softens herbal blends, creating a rich, rounded flavour without the need for added sugar.
Did You Know? Licorice root is naturally much sweeter than table sugar, yet it has been used as a flavouring ingredient for thousands of years.
Experience Licorice Root in these Ceylon Select teas: Immune Tea.