How do you like your tea? If you like it strong, then you should give pu-erh tea a try. Pu-er or pu-erh, sometimes referred to as brick dark tea, originated in China and is known for its deep, rich and earthy flavour. The Pu-erh tea leaves are fermented and stored afterwards to undergo a ...

Grown on lush, green trees in the south eastern and south central regions of America and Mexico pecans have an impressive nutrition content. This small nut is filled with 11 essential vitamins and minerals and healthy fats, which are important for optimum health. Read on below for our Top 5 Health ...

Passion fruit originates from South America (Brazil, Paraguay and Argentina) and is part of the psychedelic, funky-looking ‘Passiflora’ family – recognised for both its delectable culinary qualities, as well as its potent medicinal value. It is now cultivated in the majority of temperate, warmer ...

Vanilla is a secret ingredient flavouring our foods and beverages and is also present in many perfumes. This spice derives from the orchid family of the genus Vanilla, which is native to Mexico. The distinctive flavour and fragrance has made it a staple addition to sweet and savoury dishes and the ...

Papaya is a fruit from the Carica papaya plant, originating in Central America and Southern Mexico. Papayas grow in tropical climates and are now grown in various parts of the world. They are also known as "papaws" or "pawpaws" (remember Jungle Book's "Bare Necessities" song?). Papayas can grow up ...

Buckwheat is a pseudo grain - it has grain-like properties but is not a grain. Also, it has no relation to wheat as the name suggests. In Europe, countries like Poland, Lithuania and Ukraine are large producers of buckwheat. Similarly, Russia, the United States and China are main global buckwheat ...

With the showery spring now well established and summer approaching, you may be keen to incorporate some alternative fresh, new ingredients into your diet. Part of the Sapindaceae family (also responsible for maple and rambutan) the Chinese originated lychee has been utilised as much in traditional ...

Aloe Vera is one of the most popular plants being widely used for its remarkable medicinal properties and variety of health benefits. Being a plant species of the genus Aloe and from the lily family, the green cactus-like plant holds a sticky translucent gel that is used often in skin and beauty ...

Not to be mistaken for “dessert bananas” plantains come from the same family as bananas. They are grown around the world from Central and South America to the Caribbean, Africa and Southeast Asia. The nutrition of this vegetable is similar to that of a banana but the benefits of plantains go beyond ...

Mint is known to have originated in the Asian and Mediterranean regions of the world. It was originally used to treat stomach aches and mild chest pains; it is now enjoyed in a countless range of teas, confectionery and culinary dishes. While it is normally used a garnish, the herb is also potent ...