On our drive back from Trincomolee to Kandy we were treated to a stop off at Matale spice garden. It was like walking into a mini paradise which included us having a face massage with a potion that’s meant to make us look 20 years younger, a foot and leg massage to sooth our well-worn legs and a spiced tea.

For many centuries, spices have been one of Sri Lanka’s most significant forms of trade. They have been, and continue to be, used to make medicines, cosmetics as well as to flavour foods. Spices also form the basis of Sri Lanka’s traditional Ayurveda medicinal system which promotes long life with good physical and mental wellbeing. 

We were shown and told what all the plants were and what conditions they are used to remedy. For example, fenugreek and cinnamon are used to control blood sugar levels, cloves treat toothache, ginger and peppermint ease nausea, pepper (the king of the spices) has anti-cancer properties. Kiran bought a potion for her varicose veins, another for high blood pressure/cholesterol and I bought something to make me look 20 years younger 🙂 and another one for my Mum’s oedema.  

As we stepped into the totally natural, unpolluted and lush looking garden we saw how the spice plants are grown in their natural environment. We learnt how they are used in traditional Sri Lankan dishes to enhance the flavour and health. 

At the end of our individual tour of the garden we accepted the offer of an Ayurveda foot and leg massage and came out, at least feeling, 20 years younger! 

Next up: Kiran’s last evening before flying back to the UK and our visit to the Temple of the Buddha’s Tooth in Kandy.

If you missed our last blog (number 12) then scroll below for it.

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