We ethically source our whole leaf Pahadi green tea leaves from single tea estates in Pahadi regions like Uttarakhand and Kangra. We have a humble unit of Pahadi women who pick the choicest green tea leaves to give you the maximum benefits. Every time you choose ThePahadiStory, you choose to empower them in their journey to financial independence.
It may surprise you to know that the green tea plant (that’s widely in use to this day) was actually discovered in 2732 B.C, nearly 6,000 years ago! Even then it was known for its health benefits, which made it the perfect beverage for royalty.
Now, we all get to enjoy the benefits of green tea. It’s packed with antioxidants that keep you active and increase metabolism to aid in weight loss, improve sleep quality, and fight disease-causing free radicals. Regular consumption of green tea can also keep the heart healthy and aid in the prevention of various diseases like diabetes.
We source our premium CTC black tea leaves from the summer harvest of Assam to give you the freshest and the most flavourful tea. Assam tea is one of the world’s favourite tea because Assam has the most ideal climate for tea growing which yields better produce. Assam tea has a distinctly robust flavour and a strong aroma which makes it the perfect beverage to push you through a slump.
Assam has been a pioneer for tea growing in India, with the very first instances of Assam tea growing dating as far back as 1823. Now, 50% of India’s tea production comes from Assam alone.
Black tea offers similar benefits to green tea. It is packed with antioxidants that aid in boosting metabolism and fat loss, it can also boost heart health, lower bad cholesterol and blood sugar levels, improve gut health and help you focus better.
Turmeric is one of the most prominent ingredients in our range because of just how beneficial it can be. We source our authentic Pahadi Haldi from Sult Block, Almora, Uttarakhand.
Turmeric is a household favourite that has been passed down for generations as a trusty cure for everything from a bad mood to a bad cold. Turmeric is an ancient spice that has been in use since 2500 BCE. In Vedic culture, turmeric was considered to be a healing and a culinary spice as well. Turmeric used a dye because it was a cheaper alternative to saffron. The use of Turmeric in Ayurveda dates as far back as 500 B.C. It was commonly used as a blood and skin purifier. It was also used to cure ailments like epilepsy, diarrhea and urinary tract infections. Turmeric was even ground into a paste and applied to the skin to treat conditions like eczema and ringworm. Turmeric juice was used in wound-healing for swelling on sprained ankles. Since then, it has been adapted into various forms and used in various food but the most-loved has always been the ever-reliable Haldi Doodh.
Turmeric is often called the “golden spice” because of its colour but it’s not just the colour that makes this spice golden. It’s also the various health benefits that are worth its weight in gold. It’s got anti-inflammatory properties, it’s packed with antioxidants. Various studies have shown that it can reduce the risk of brain-related ailments like Alzheimer's and depression, it can lower your risk of heart disease and cancer, and give you glowing skin.
We need to add more on turmeric as its the biggest spice in demand.
Black Pepper is often called the King of Spices. It may be an ingredient that is essential to a lot of modern cuisines but its roots are as far back as 2000 years B.C. In the 15th century, pepper was called “Black Gold” because of just how beneficial it was to traders at the time. The prices of pepper were extremely high as well because it wasn’t available in abundance. Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama found pepper in large quantities along the shores of Calicut, which in the present day is called Kozhikode. The Portuguese domination of India was largely to control the supply of black pepper to the world.
During the olden days, the traders used black pepper for everything from reversing the effects of hemlock to digestive complications. We may lead very different lives from the people in the 15th century but we can derive a whole of benefits from black pepper too. Black Pepper is rich in manganese, a mineral that can help with wound-healing, bone health and boosting metabolism. It’s packed with antioxidants that can fight free radicals and reduce cell damage. It’s got the bioactive compound, Piperine which gives it its health-enhancing properties. Piperine is an antioxidant type that can reduce the risk of chronic illnesses and neurological conditions. It’s also got a lot of benefits for gut health because it can reduce discomfort and gas buildup in your intestines and help in better absorption and digestion.
The botanical name for Cinnamon is derived from the Arabic word, amomon which means a fragrant spice plant. It’s a warm, homely spice that is almost synonymous with the word cozy. It may be readily available everywhere now but it was considered to be a rather rare spice in ancient times, sometimes even selling for fifteen times the price of silver. The use of Cinnamon dates back to 2800 B.C. Ancient Egyptians even used it in their embalming process.
In ancient times, Cinnamon was used by medieval physicians as a means of treating coughing and an itchy sore throat. Cinnamon also had preservative properties, which is why it was also added to meat to keep it fresh for longer and give it a more distinct flavour.
In the present day, Cinnamon is an Indian household staple, for everything from curries to Kadhas because of its distinctly warm flavour and health benefits. Cinnamon is packed with antioxidants that fight free radicals to prevent cell damage and boost metabolism to aid in weight loss. It’s also got anti-inflammatory properties. It can lower the risk of heart disease by lowering the LDL or bad cholesterol levels, lower blood sugar levels to aid in the control of diabetes, lower the risk of cancer and fight bacterial as well as fungal infections.
Ginger adds a refreshing twist of freshness that is unmatched by any other spice, which is why it’s a versatile ingredient that is used in everything from teas to curries. The history of ginger dates back to nearly 5,000 years ago. Although its place of origin hasn’t been confirmed yet, the medicinal use of the spice was first documented in India, China, and Southeast Asia. India is currently the biggest producer of Ginger in the world.
In the Middle Ages, Ginger was used to ward off the Plague. It was also a common folk medicine in a number of cultures. Ginger was mainly used for the cure of digestive ailments like constipation, nausea, vomiting and more serious issues like dyspepsia, gastroparesis and slow motility symptoms.
Thousands of years later, Ginger is still used to treat digestive issues but it can also do a lot more. It’s known to aid in weight loss, help with osteoarthritis by reducing pain in patients, lower blood sugar and cholesterol levels, reduce menstrual pain, improve brain function and protect against diseases like Alzheimer's.
Often honoured with the title of The Queen of Spices, Green Cardamom is one the most highly-prized spices in the market today because of its exotic flavour and health benefits. Green Cardamom was discovered nearly 4,000 years by the Vikings during their travel and they brought it back to Scandinavia for their people. Cardamom originally grew in the Western Ghats in South India.
It was used by the Ancient Egyptians for their rituals, embalming process and even as a mouth freshener to keep their breath fresh. On the other hand, the Greeks and Romans used Green Cardamom in oils and perfumes because of its aromatic properties.
In the present day, it’s got antimicrobial properties that can kill fungi and bacteria. It can help with obesity, lower blood sugar, blood pressure, triglycerides and cholesterol. It can improve heart health, liver health and oral health by preventing ulcers.
Liquorice is a perennial herb that has made a distinct mark on cuisines around the world. Although in the present day, it is commonly associated with liquorice candy, the herb has a number of health benefits that have been passed down for thousands of years.
Historians have found evidence of liquorice plantations in many ancient Hindu, Roman, Greek, Egyptian and Chinese civilizations. A number of significant historical figures like King Tut, Alexander the Great, and Napoleon Bonaparte consumed liquorice in copious amounts for its medicinal properties. Napoleon even consumed it so much that his teeth turned black and King Tut loved it so much that it was even added to his tomb. Manuscripts from 360 A.D. mention the use of liquorice for treating eye and skin diseases, coughing and hair loss.
In today’s day, liquorice is helpful for fighting bronchitis and other respiratory ailments. It is also a cough-suppressant that will provide relief from annoying bouts of sickness. It’s also chock-full of digestion aiding properties that can be helpful to combat problems like heartburn, indigestion and gastric ulcers.
Clove is an aromatic spice with a warm flavour that is incredibly soothing. The majority of the flavour in a clove comes from the reddish-brown flower buds in the center of the spice. Cloves are believed to be native to Moluccas, or Spice Islands, of Indonesia. In this island, parents planted a clove tree every time a child was born.
There are records of clove being delivered from Java, Indonesia to the Han Dynasty, China. Until the colonial era, cloves were exclusively grown in Indonesia. When the Dutch invaded Indonesia, they eradicated the spice in all places except Amboina and Ternate to create high demand with a scarcity, which would drive the prices higher. Clove was used to perfume the breath during performances for the Chinese emperor. Clove grew from a mouth freshener to a preservative and a flavorful garnish in the Middle Ages. There was a popular folkloric belief that chewing cloves would control the desire to drink alcohol. Ayurvedic and American healers used cloves to aid in digestive ailments. German herbalists used clove in anti-gout mixtures.
In today’s day, clove has a lot more to offer than just the flavour. Cloves are a good source of Vitamin K and manganese. They’re rich in antioxidants that can fight free radicals. They can kill bacteria like E. Coli which is a common cause of food poisoning. They can be used to maintain oral health, promote liver and bone health and regulate blood sugar levels.
When we think of Fennel Seeds or saunf, we usually only think of it as an after-meal palette-cleansing treat that is quite refreshing but it is so much more than that. Fennel dates back to 23-79 A.D. Fennel is an ancient plant that has been used for its medicinal benefits for thousands of years.
Fennel was considered to be a remedy for snake bites in China. Fennel was also used as an antidote to various poisons by the Hindus, Greeks, and Romans. The ancient Egyptians used it for its medicinal benefits and its unique taste. Ancient Greek physician, Hippocrates even suggested that fennel could aid with milk production for mothers. It was even considered to be an aid to weight loss when steeped into a tea.
In the current day, Fennel’s poison-curing properties have been disputed but it still has a lot of benefits. Fennel Seeds are a good source of Vitamin C, Iron, Calcium, Magnesium, Potassium and Manganese. Fennel Seeds are packed with antioxidants and plant compounds. These antioxidants have anti-inflammatory properties, they can also lower the risk of diabetes, heart disease and obesity. Fennel Seeds are an appetite suppressant that may naturally aid you in your weight loss journey.
Tulsi is deemed the Queen of Herbs because of its restorative and spiritual properties. It is a holy herb that is native to the Indian subcontinent. Tulsi is often grown outside Hindu homes to bring peace and prosperity to the inhabitants.
Tulsi is also packed with health benefits. Tulsi is packed with antioxidants which can prevent cell damage. It’s a common household cure for fever, insect bites, respiratory problems, common cold, and sore throat. It can also aid with the detoxification and internal housekeeping of the body. Tulsi leaves are also used to treat skin problems like acne and blackheads.
In Sanskrit, Giloy is called Amrita which translates to the root of immortality. It rightfully deserves this title because of the many health benefits that this magical root has to offer. Giloy is an innate immunity booster. It’s an antioxidant-rich root that can help in the prevention of chronic degenerative diseases. It can reduce joint pain and inflammation, two severe symptoms faced by people who have arthritis. It can aid the liver in the detoxification process. Giloy can promote heart health by lowering cholesterol. Giloy can also work as a hypoglycemic agent, which stimulates the production of insulin secretion from the pancreas to lower blood sugar levels. It can also protect against respiratory illnesses like asthma, tonsilitis and ease cough and cold. It can also nourish the skin and enhance collagen production to reduce the visible signs of aging.
Amla is a tree that is native to the Indian subcontinent and the Middle East. Amla candy is a hit among children and adults alike because of its sour flavour that has resonated with people for years.
Amla is packed with antioxidants that fight free radicals. It is one of the richest all-natural sources of Vitamin C, only one or two Amla can give you your entire intake needed for the day. Vitamin C is extremely important for the immune system so Amla acts as a natural immunity booster. Amla is also a household favourite to promote hair growth. Amla can improve liver function. It can improve heart health by lowering bad cholesterol levels. Amla can help in digestion and improve kidney health.
Rhododendron Flower is a gorgeous flower that has beauty paired with benefits. They’re commonly used for traditional medicinal purposes because of their healing properties. Rhododendron is an antioxidant-rich flower that can help with digestive issues like constipation, detoxification, keep your heart healthy, reduce inflammation and fever, aid in respiratory illnesses like bronchitis and cough.
Hibiscus is a gorgeous and vibrant flower that we've all stopped to admire the beauty of. Not a lot of people are aware that hibiscus is actually beneficial for health. Hibiscus has been used as a medicinal flower for generations. It can lower blood pressure and bad cholesterol levels, protect against cell damage and free radicals, it can aid in weight loss by boosting metabolism, and help with digestive issues like constipation.
The practice of cultivating roses began nearly 5,000 years ago in 500 B.C. Roses have since been used for everything from perfumes to symbols of love but the one thing that a lot of people seem to overlook is the health benefits offered by rose petals. Roses are packed with antioxidants that fight free radicals and prevent cell damage. They have stress-relieving properties. Roses can also aid in improving digestion. They can aid in the detoxification of the body. Roses are also rich in Vitamin C, which makes them an all-natural immunity booster, and Vitamin E, which is good for the skin. Roses also have anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce pain from diseases like arthritis.
Chamomile is an ancient flower that has been around since the time of the Ancient Egyptians. Egyptians used to offer this flower to their God because they believed it helped cure the fever while the Romans used to sip Chamomile as a restorative beverage. In the Middle Ages, chamomile was mainly cultivated by monks for its medicinal properties. It was commonly used through the ages as a bittering agent for beer and ale.
To this day, Chamomile is used as a bittering agent in beer and wine. Now its primary use is to aid in stress-relieving and improving sleep quality with its calming qualities. Some of the lesser-known uses of Chamomile are improving digestive health, boosting immunity, reducing menstrual pain and inflammation, treating the pesky symptoms of a cold and lowering blood sugar levels.
Mint is one of the most refreshing herbs available today. There’s nothing like a cool glass of water mixed in with some mint leaves to ease the midday blues caused by hot weather. Mint is even mentioned in Greek Mythology stories. It is said to have originated in the Mediterranean, from there it’s said to have made its mark worldwide.
In ancient times, the Greeks applied mint on their arms as a perfume while the Romans used them as flavouring and perfume for sauces and wines and for table decorative purposes as well.
Today, mint is mainly used as a refresher but it also has a number of medicinal uses that are often overlooked. It can improve digestive health, especially for those with Irritable Bowel Syndrome. The nutrient-packed Mint is rich in Vitamin A, Iron and Manganese. It can also improve brain function. Due to the presence of menthol, it can also aid in easing cough and cold symptoms.
Ashwagandha is a medicinal Ayurvedic herb that has been in use for over 6,000 years. The word Ashwagandha is a combination of two Sanskrit words, ‘Ashwa’ which means horse, and ‘Gandha’ which means smell because of its root having a strong horselike scent. The root of Ashwagandha is the most important part, it is chock-full of health benefits. It has stress-relieving properties that will help in calming the mind. Ashwagandha can also promote heart health, improve brain function and relieve the pain caused by arthritis. Ashwagandha leaves can be used to help in the treatment of fever or to reduce swelling.
Star Anise originated in China around 5,000 years ago. Star Anise was primarily used in desserts like jams, syrups and puddings. The Chinese steeped it in water to make a tea that could treat respiratory problems, nausea, constipation and other digestive issues. Nowadays, it's used for culinary as well as medicinal purposes. Star Anise has antiviral properties because of the presence of Shikimic acid. It also has antifungal properties and antibacterial properties that can inhibit bacterial growth to prevent disease.