Tea has become an inseparable aspect of our life. Be it for welcoming guests, or enjoying your me time, sipping a hot cup of tea can make our day, any day. This beverage has been around for thousands of years, and over time, it has become part of several legends apart from anecdotes that shed light on its cultural significance and health benefits of tea. Join us as we delve into the captivating world of tea and uncover some intriguing facts that will enhance your appreciation for this ancient elixir.
An accidental discovery!
Although tea became popular in Europe in the 16th Century, did you know that people started using ceramic teapots in Asia and the Middle East almost 11,000 years ago? It is believed that the discovery of tea was marked by a serendipitous encounter. Legend has it Emperor Shen Nong discovered tea in 2737 BC when tea leaves accidentally fell into his pot of boiling water. Someone rightly said that the greatest things that make history are the most expected ones as well. Know more about the origin and history of tea.
A colourful myth
Tea is found in different colours across the globe like green, black, oolong, white, and pu-erh, hardly would have ever imagined that this colour comes from the processing methods and oxidation levels of the leaves. Green and white teas are not oxidized, oolongs are partially oxidized, and pu-ehrs and black are fully oxidized. Teas that are less oxidized are lighter in color and flavour while the oxidized teas are darker in color and have a stronger flavour. Different types of tea also have different their own distinct taste partially influenced by processing methods.
Tea bags were first introduced for sampling.
Tea bags were invented in the early 20th century by an American tea merchant named Thomas Sullivan. They were initially used for sampling initially, but slowly, they became trendier because of their practicality and convenience. Also, with tea bags gaining acceptance the debate for loose leaf vs tea bags is always going on between the user and non-users of tea bags.
The world’s most expensive tea
Da Hong Pao is the world’s most expensive tea that comes from China. It is the most sought-after tea across the world because of its scarcity and unique production process. And guess what? Da Hong Pao tea can cost anywhere close to $1,000 per gram. Unbelievable?
2nd after water
Yes, you’ve read it right! Tea is the most consumed beverage across the globe after water. China tops the charts when it comes to tea production. Other countries like India, Kenya, Sri Lanka, Turkey, Indonesia, etc. also have a long-standing tradition of cultivating tea and meeting global demands.
A smooth caffeine rush.
There are fewer chances that you would experience a caffeine crash after drinking tea. Tea has high levels of antioxidants that slow down the absorption of caffeine, leading to a longer period of alertness and a gentler rise in caffeine levels. Know more about health benefits of tea.
Decoding the mystic side of Tea
The art of interpreting messages and identifying symbols found in the configurations of tea leaves is called Tasseography. Curious practitioners of this art have been amused and enchanted by the results of this practice. Although it’s not as popular as tarot reading or crystal magic, Tasseography has been explored for many years. It is said that this form of art is a powerful way to channel energy and exercise intuition.
A couple of more quick fun facts
The English teacups were influenced by the Chinese tea bowls and didn’t have the handles.
The small Chinese teapots were replaced by large bell-shaped silver teapots during the reign of Queen Anne, as she drank tea more frequently.
Tea’s enduring popularity and cultural significance have made it a beloved beverage across the globe. From its ancient origins in China to the diverse tea traditions practiced in different countries, tea continues to captivate us with its rich history and wide variety. Whether you’re savoring a soothing cup of green tea for its health benefits or partaking in a traditional tea ceremony, there’s always something fascinating to discover about this remarkable beverage.
Tea is much more than a beverage; it’s an experience that connects us to nature, history, and diverse cultures. So, go ahead and explore the vast array of teas available, try new flavors, and embrace the fascinating world of tea. Raise your cup and toast to this remarkable elixir that has brought joy and comfort to millions of people throughout the ages. Cheers to tea!