Cardamom & Curry Resources
Whether you’re steeping a warming cup of tea or reaching for your next favorite spice blend, knowledge is the best ingredient. Here you’ll find the wellness benefits behind our carefully curated herbs, teas, and spices, along with brewing guidance and additional resources to deepen your Cardamom & Curry experience.
Benefits of our teas & spices
Green Rooibos
This herb purported to have anti-spasmodic properties, meaning it is able to calm intestinal spasms and ease digestive upset. i.e. nausea, stomach ulcers and heartburn. There are anti-inflammatory benefits of green rooibos due to its high content of flavonoids. It’s commonly used to treat respiratory disorders.
Red Rooibos
Red rooibos contains polyphenols that have anti-inflammatory, antiviral and antimutagenic qualities. This herb is naturally caffeine-free and can be given to infants suffering from colic. It also contains alpha-hydroxy acid and zinc which is great for the skin. Red rooibos is rich in calcium, manganese, potassium and fluoride minerals.
Tulsi Leaf
Tulsi has been revered in India for over 5,000 years as a healing balm for body, mind and spirit, and is known to bestow an amazing number of health benefits. These benefits include stress relief, bolstering immunity, enhancing stamina, providing immune support during cold season, promoting healthy metabolism and being a natural immune-modulator.
White Tea
White tea is the least processed tea with the highest level of antioxidants. Antioxidants are the nutrients that protect the body from damage by free radicals. One study showed that white tea has the most potent anticancer properties compared to more processed teas. It can also help lower blood pressure since it thins the blood and improves artery function.
Green Tea
University of Purdue researchers recently concluded that a compound in green tea inhibits the growth of cancer cells. Research indicates that drinking green tea lowers total cholesterol levels, as well as improving ratio (HDL) cholesterol to bad (LDL) cholesterol. It boosts the immune system which promotes weight loss.
Oolong Tea
The polyphenol compound level in oolong tea is effective in controlling the fat metabolism of the body. It activates certain enzymes and thus enhances the functions of the fat cells in the human body. Developing research suggests that drinking about 4 cups of oolong tea per day in 3 divided doses improves eczema that hasn’t responded to other treatments. It may take 1 or 2 weeks of treatment to see improvement. Drinking oolong tea or other caffeinated beverages throughout the day seems to maintain alertness and mental performance.
Black Tea
Black tea can help reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke, as it helps to expand the arteries which increases blood flow to the heart. Some laboratory tests also show that black tea may help boost metabolism to aid weight loss, block allergic response, slow the growth of tumors, protect bones, fight bad breath, improve skin, protect against Parkinson’s disease, and even delay the onset of diabetes.
Honeybush
Herb from South America contains antioxidants and polyphenois which can support the immune system and reduce inflammation
Matcha
High in antioxidants and catechins which support the immune system and can assist in lowering inflammation
Almonds
Contains vitamins, minerals and fiber. It also has trace minerals as well as protein and fiber. Assists in heart health by providing healthy fats. Alkalizing to the body.
Apples
Antioxidant benefits, blood sugar regulation and cardiovascular benefits
Ashwagandha
One of the most powerful herbs in Ayurvedic healing, it is well known for its restorative benefits.It is beneficial for reducing stress, fatigue, difficulty in concentrating and is anti-inflammatory. Taken before bed, it assists with insomnia.
Bay Leaf
Relieves gas and colic pain, it is a good source of trace minerals. Can be beneficial in treating colds, flu, pain and infections. A dish of bay leaves will ward off insects.
Bergamot Oil
It is extracted from the rind or peel of oranges. It is analgesic, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, digestive and uplifting to the senses.
Black Pepper
Native to Kerela in Southern India, it is rich in trace minerals and vitamin C. It promotes sweating which assists in toxin removal and reduces fat cells.
Cardamom
A citrusy spice which is anti-inflammatory. Assists the body to eliminate wastes through the kidney. Assists with hiccups, anti-spasmodic.
Cayenne
Has the ability to ease upset stomach. It is anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, digestive aid. Offers detox support and joint pain relief. Metabolic booster.
Chamomile
Flowering plant from the daisy family. Relieves insomnia, anxiety, panic attacks. Assists with IBS, PMS, helps with dark circles around the eyes.
Cinnamon
The “feel good” spice. Assists with brain function, it is anti-bacterial. anti-microbial and anti-fungal.
Cloves
It reduces inflammation and improves digestion. Used to numb pain. It improves digestion and is a good source of vitamin K, fiber, calcium.
Cranberries
Phytonutrients, it assists with Urinary Tract Infections. Anti-inflammatory and offers immune support
Fennel
Rich in phytonutrients it aids in digestion and assists in respiratory illnesses. It relieves PMS, improves memory and brain function.
Ginger
Same family as Turmeric and Cardamom, it helps eliminate nausea, gas motion sickness. It is great as anti-inflammatory. Anti-bacterial, anti-microbial
Gotu Kola
It is regarded as THE most spiritual of all herbs as it is used in India to improve meditation. It is said to balance the crown chakra also the right and left hemispheres in the brain. It is one of the most important rejuvenating herbs in Ayurveda. It fortifies the immune system and strengthens the immune system and adrenals. Promotes a restful sleep.
Guayusa
Ancient herb from Ecuador, South America. Boosts metabolism which supports metabolism.Contains amino acids, vitamins and minerals. Balances blood sugar, boosts physical energy and increases mental clarity.
Lemongrass
Aromatic storehouse for vitamins and minerals.Main component which is Lemona which is anti-fungal, anti-microbial, and relief from coughs and colds.
Lemon Peel
Improves bone health, treats oxidative stress, promotes weight loss, fights cancer and prevents heart related issues. Eliminates toxins.
Nutmeg
Aids sleep. Contains trace minerals, keeps the brain sharp. Assists in relieving muscle and joint pain. Treats kidney infections, improves blood circulation.
Orange Peel
Contains more than 60 types of bioflavonoids and over 170 different types of phytonutrients . Excellent for weight loss as it can suppress the formation of adipose tissue. Improves skin and respiratory problems.
Peaches
Compounds in stone fruits could help with “metabolic syndrome”. Anti-obesity, Anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, Thought to be an aphrodisiac.
Pears
A mild, sweet fruit with a fibrous center. Rich in antioxidants, flavonoids, and fiber. Helps with weight loss and reduces the risk of developing cancer, heart disease, and diabetes. Assists the body in detoxification.
Pineapple
Good source of vitamins and minerals. Only source of an enzyme, Bromelain which has been known to reduce joint pain, arthritis, reduces inflammation and inhibits tumor growth.
Pistachios
Helps lower cholesterol. May help to prevent type 2 Diabetes. Abundant in vitamin B6 which has been beneficial to the nervous system. Supports the immune system, and a great source of vitamin E which is great for skin health.
Pomegranate Seeds
Most powerful antioxidant of ALL FRUITS! One fruit you can’t afford to exclude from your diet. Abundant in Vitamins C and K. Protects against heart disease and cancer.
Rooibos
An indigenous shrub grown in the mountains near the Cape of Good Hope in South Africa. Some say it is 50% higher in Antioxidants than green tea. Rich in Vitamin C, caffeine free and easy on the stomach.
Rose Hips
It is the flowers which have swollen to seed. Excellent source of Vitamin A, B3, C, D, and E. Flavonoids, Citric Acid, Malic Acid and Zinc.
Rose Petals
It has a 95% water content. Eating rose petals can make you feel good!Anti-bacterial, Anti-inflammatory, antioxidants, moisturizing to the skin. Can help with depression. Smell a bunch TODAY!
Saffron
Most highly prized spices from the crocus plant. Antiseptic, Anti-depressant Antioxidant, digestive. Rich in vitamins and minerals.
Spearmint
Assists with digestive problems and an excellent headache remedy. Releases stress and fatigue and may relieve itching.
Star Anise
An Anti-oxidant that originated in south China with a licorice/anise flavor. An ingredient in Star Anise which is Anti-viral and is marketed in “Tamiflu”.
Tulsi Leaf
Also known as Holy Basil. It is believed in India to bring good luck. It sharpens memory. Anti-bacterial and Anti-fungal, it is Anti-aging, boosts immunity, heals wounds. Caffeine free herb.
Turmeric
Curcumin is the main active ingredient which is a cry powerful antioxidant and great Anti-inflammatory properties.
Unsweetened Dark Chocolate
From the cacao tree. One tablespoon contains 3-9% of RDA intake of Iron, Manganese, Magnesium and Zinc. Rich in flavonoids. Assists in maintaining heart health. Boosts mental performance.
Vanilla Bean
Aphrodisiac properties. Contains small amounts of Vitamin B. Contains traceminerals, numerous antioxidants and is Anti-inflammatory.
White Willow Bark
Studies show that it can help treat lower back pain and possibly osteoarthritis. One of the reasons people take this is because it is a better alternative for those who are sensitive to aspirin. It is more gentle on the stomach. It is rich in antioxidants and anti-viral, anti-bacterial.
Butterfly Pea Flower
Contains antioxidants, bladder & kidney support ,and weight management
Calendula
Assists with inflammation, skin health, wound healing, antimicrobial
Dandelion
Antioxidant, supports liver detoxification, assists with inflammation
Goji Berries
Vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, immune support, eye health
Gymnema Sylvestri
Supports weight loss, supports healthy blood sugar levels
Heather
Anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial
Honeysuckle
Anti-inflammatory, antiviral, anti-bacterial
Lavender
Assists with anxiety, antibacterial, calms the nervous system
Lemonbalm
Soothing to the nervous system
Moringa
Antioxidant, supports the immune system
Nettle
Vitamins, minerals, antioxidants supports immune, digestive system support
Oatstraw
Calming effect on the nervous system
Pomegranate
Antioxidant, vitamins, minerals, reduces inflammation
Slippery Elm
Soothes digestive issues, reduces inflammation
Whole Sea Salt
Minerals, supports electrolyte balance, assists with hydration, could improve sleep, overall health benefits
Yellow Dock
Supports the digestive system
Brewing Instructions
To make a perfect cup of tea:
Paula says…”Shake pouches & tins each time before using!”
HERBAL (caffeine-free)
Bring 1 cup water and 1 tsp. tea to boil. Steep 2-3 minutes. Strain and serve.
TURMERIC (caffeine-free)
Bring 1 cup water and 1 tsp. tea to a boil. Simmer 8-10 minutes. Add sweetener if desired. Strain and serve warm or iced.
WHITE – GREEN – OOLONG
Bring 1 cup water to boil turn off the heat. Place 1 tsp. of tea in the pot and steep 2-3 minutes. Strain and serve.
BLACK
Bring 1 cup water and 1 tsp. tea to a rolling boil. Strain and serve.
CHAI
Bring 1 rounded tsp. tea, 1 cup water, 1/8 cup milk and 1/8 cup half & half (can substitute soy) and 3 tsp. sugar (or sweetener of choice to taste) to a boil. Continue to boil until caramel in color. Strain and serve.
ICED TEA
Make your favorite tea using 1 tsp. of tea to 1 cup of water, add sweetener if desired and adjust to the size of your pitcher. Strain into a glass or stainless steel bowl to cool.
Watch our video of Paula making a perfect cup of Chai:
How to Make Decoctions
Steps for Preparation ~
Select any Herbal or any combination of our Herbal teas to your liking and taste.
Measure the Ingredients and we typically suggest you use 1 to 3 teaspoons of herbs per 12-20 ounces of water.
Place the tea in a pot with cold water. Do not microwave. Use a stovetop.
Bring the teas to a volcano boil.
Once it comes to a volcano boil, reduce heat and let it simmer for 30 to 45 minutes.
After simmering in the time frame suggested, strain the tea and enjoy your decoction.
Kindly Note:
For Decoctions to be effective ~
- Covering the Pot with a lid is extremely essential as it helps retain volatile oils, aromas and flavors.
- You may refrigerate any additional amount of your decoction, however, we suggest that you consume it within the next 24-48 hours for its more pronounced wellness benefits.
- It may be interesting to know that Decoctions are generally found to be extremely beneficial for extracting tannins, resins, and alkaloids, while herbal tea infusions are considered ideal for vitamins, minerals, and their aromatic compounds