Sonnentor Organic Turmeric Tea
Until recently the Indian city of Palitana was only known by insiders. In 2014, however, it became world-famous overnight. 200 Jain monks went on a hunger strike to make the city administration close the local slaughterhouses. Thereupon the authorities made slaughtering animals within the city a punishable offence. Palitana became the first fully vegetarian city in the world. And because the majority of the population also belongs to the religion of Jainism, it will probably remain like that for a long time. The city administration is even assuming that the total meat ban will attract vegetarian visitors and immigrants from around the world.
Going through the streets of Palitana white dressed men and women immediately attract attention. Most wear a feather duster (resp. whisk broom) and some even wear a face mask. These two utensils are intended to prevent you from accidentally killing insects by swallowing or sitting on them. Before one sits down, the small creatures are gently sidelined with the broom. Orthodox Jainas even sweep the ground in front of them at every step in order to not step on an insect.
All lay supporters of Jainism follow three basic principles, that are also called the little vows (Anuvratas). Besides veracity and renouncement of unnecessary property this also includes no violence against all living beings who have a soul. For this reason, Jainas can't work as soldiers or policemen. Also jobs where animals could be violated, e.g. in agriculture are not at issue. In order to meet the strict requirements of the Ahimsa, one should move as little as possible. For this reason many Jainas also have a profession that can be carried out while sitting (e.g. tailor, banker or salesman).
Although the Jainas do not cultivate any plants, that grow under the earth; ginger and turmeric can still be found in Palitana, since a colorful spice market belongs to every Indian city. On large plates one finds artfully heaped up spice mountains of all colors. The yellow tumeric powder is never missing. It has been used in Asia for millennia as a spice, colorant or medicine.
As one of the main ingredients for curry, it is no longer possible to imagine the Indian cuisine without it. Yogis thus transform ordinary milk (or vegetable drinks) into golden milk, an ancient ayurvedic elixir. When it comes to refining tea turmeric is also used. Black tea which is refined with milk, sugar and spices is called Masala Chai in India. In addition to cinnamon, ginger, cloves or cardamom one also likes to use turmeric – especially in colder regions.
The Organic Turmeric Teas of Sonnentor prove impressively that turmeric creates wonderful compositions in the cup even without black tea. The Organic Flowery Turmeric Tea with rose and elderberry blossoms as well as fruity rose hips has a sunny yellow color. The additional ingredients such as lemon thyme, cardamom and lavender provide a pleasant sweetish-spicy flavour and it goes nicely with light salads. Served chilled and refined with lemon juice the Organic Flowery Turmeric Tea becomes a refreshing iced tea. The Organic Mild Turmeric Tea from Sonnentor first captures the eye with its amber color. But the taste is also impressive: Balanced rooibos is combined with licorice, cinnamon and gentle vanilla to an incredable harmonious blend. It does not only fit nicely with hearty vegetables, but it also skillfully accompanies fruit salads. The Organic Golden Turmeric Tea with cardamom, coriander and powerful ginger glows in a rich sunny yellow color. The exquisite mixture tastes wonderfully whole-hearted and complements various cheese varieties and colorful stir-fry dishes. The Organic Turmeric Teas of Sonnentor will convince you with their versatility and their extremely delicious taste. Each variety is available as a loose tea and as a pack with 18 individually sealed infusion bags. Try out delicious oriental tea. Namasté.
