There are various myths regarding the origin of tea. Some claim that leaves inadvertently dropped into a cup of hot water, making a unique liquor, while others claim that a monk cut off his eyelids and threw them into the ground, causing the tea plant to grow.
However, it was discovered tea is the second most consumed drink in the world after water, with over 3 billion cups consumed daily.
However, it was until the 17th Century that western Europe got a taste of it. Here's the story of tea.
The Origin
Tea is mentioned for the first time in China in 2737 B.C.
History suggests that Chinese emperor Shen Nung was relaxing outside when a strong windstorm swept through the tree (the Camellia sinensis plant) above him, forcing some leaves to fall into nearby boiling water.
After being drawn in by the lush aroma, Shen Nung tasted some of the unintentional brews and was pleasantly delighted by the unusual yet tasty flavor.
The drink, which he called "ch'a," quickly gained popularity as a remedy. Tea swiftly gained popularity between the fourth and eighth centuries, and plantations were established throughout China.
It developed into more than a curative beverage and was regularly consumed as the preferred cultural refreshment.
Until the middle of the 17th Century, green tea was the most popular type.
Black tea was first introduced as international trade increased and new fermenting processes were employed.
It quickly gained popularity due to its robust aroma and flavor.
Tea is a well-known representation of Chinese history, culture, and religion that has endured.
Tea in Europe
In Europe, tea was still mostly unheard of until the 16th Century. The Dutch created a trading post on the island of Java, which is situated between Sumatra and Bali, and this is where the first commercial shipments of tea were made.
The initial shipment of tea from China to Holland was shipped from this trading post in 1606. In the Netherlands, tea quickly gained popularity and quickly expanded to many other western European nations.
It took longer for Britain to become the nation of tea drinkers. A September 1658 advertisement in a London journal had the earliest mention of tea in Britain.
It promoted the sale of a "China Drink," also known as "Tcha" in China, at a coffee shop in London.
The advertisement's content implied that tea was still unfamiliar and a source of curiosity for local readers.
Tea in the USA
Tea has a distinctive history in America. Families that started settling on the American continent brought the customs and culture of Europe to the New World.
In the mid-18th Century, tea became the most valued export of the British Empire to the New World.
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it – a brief history of tea and its many varieties. Whether you're a black tea drinker, green tea lover, or prefer something a little more exotic, we've got the perfect flavor for you at our online store. Click here (link) to find your favorite flavor.