The origin of tea can be traced back to ancient China, with the legend crediting Emperor Shen Nong for discovering its medicinal properties by chance. Although it is impossible to know exactly who truly “invented” tea, there is no doubt that China is its birthplace. From there, tea gradually spread to the rest of the world.
The Global Significance of Tea
Tea has grown to become an increasingly important element worldwide. To understand its significance, we can look at both its cultural and economic value.
Cultural Importance
Tea holds an esteemed place in the cultures of many nations, particularly in China, Japan, India, and the UK. Each culture has its unique tea traditions that reflect its values, social structures, and history.
- China: Chinese tea culture boasts thousands of years of history, deeply ingrained in philosophy and daily life. Brewing tea is considered an art form, and the tea ceremony emphasizes mindfulness and a respect for nature. Different types of tea, such as green tea, oolong, and pu-erh, are associated with specific social rituals and health benefits. Serving tea is a gesture of respect and hospitality, integral to welcoming guests.
- Japan: Japan’s tea culture is renowned for its highly ritualized “tea ceremony,” where the preparation and serving of matcha follow strict procedures that embody the values of harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility, reflecting Zen Buddhism principles. Beyond formal ceremonies, tea is part of everyday life, from casual afternoon tea breaks to family gatherings.
- India: Tea is a staple of daily life and social interaction in India, with the ubiquitous “chai” (Indian spiced tea) being a prime example. Chai is not just a drink but a social experience, often offered by street vendors at street corners, making it accessible and communal. The spices in chai, such as cardamom, cinnamon, and ginger, highlight the cultural richness of India and tea’s role in hospitality.
- The United Kingdom: The tradition of afternoon tea began in the 19th century and has become synonymous with elegance and social gatherings. While tea is consumed casually in daily life, the ritualistic nature of afternoon tea—with scones, sandwiches, and pastries—remains a cherished practice, symbolizing social connection, relaxation, and sophistication.
In these cultures, tea is not just a beverage; it symbolizes hospitality, tradition, and social bonding. It is a vital part of cultural ceremonies and plays a central role in daily life, demonstrating its powerful influence and unshakeable cultural status.
Economic Importance
Tea also holds a significant place in the global economy, impacting industries from agriculture to trade and retail. Here’s how tea contributes economically:
- Global Trade and Market Size: The tea industry is a multi-billion-dollar market. According to Statista, the global tea market was valued at approximately $53 billion in 2023, with expected growth driven by the increasing demand for both traditional and specialty teas. Major producers like China, India, and Kenya export billions of dollars’ worth of tea annually, shaping international trade patterns.
- Employment and Agriculture: Tea cultivation provides livelihoods for millions worldwide, especially in countries like India, China, and Sri Lanka. The tea industry is vital to the agricultural economy in these regions, supporting farmers and workers. In India, tea plantations are among the largest sources of agricultural employment, supporting both large estates and smallholder farmers.
- Consumer Demand and Trends: The rise in demand for specialty teas, such as green, herbal, and organic teas, has opened new market opportunities. Health-conscious consumers seeking antioxidants and natural products are driving the demand for green and wellness teas. This trend has fueled the growth of niche markets, offering higher price points and profit margins for producers and retailers.
- Tea as a Cultural Export: Beyond its agricultural value, tea serves as an important cultural export. Countries like China and India promote their tea culture as part of their soft power strategy, bringing economic returns and fostering cultural diplomacy and tourism. Tea ceremonies, tea festivals, and cultural tourism attract international visitors, boosting local economies and enhancing global interest.
These descriptions illustrate that tea’s economic significance spans agriculture, trade, consumer goods, and cultural exchange. It continues to impact global markets through both traditional and innovative approaches.
Who Invented Tea?
The invention of tea is traditionally attributed to the ancient Chinese emperor Shennong, who is said to have discovered tea in 2737 BCE. According to legend, while he was boiling water, leaves from a nearby tree accidentally fell into the pot. The emperor decided to taste this unexpected brew and found it refreshing and invigorating. This discovery is considered the origin of tea in Chinese culture.
However, historical evidence suggests that tea drinking became more widespread during the Tang Dynasty (618–907 CE), when the cultivation and consumption of tea evolved into the form we recognize today. By the Song Dynasty (960–1279 CE), tea had become a cultural and economic commodity, spreading to other parts of the world through trade and exploration.
While Shennong is often credited as the discoverer of tea, the development of tea culture likely happened gradually over centuries, as tea plants were cultivated and refined, contributing to a rich cultural tradition that endures to this day.
The Historical Development of Tea
Let’s delve into the history of tea and explore how it gradually developed into the beverage we know today.
1. The Origin Period
The Legendary Era
There are many legends about the origin of tea, with one popular tale recounting how Shennong tasted hundreds of herbs and encountered seventy-two poisons, only to find that tea could counteract them. Although this is a legend, it reflects the belief that tea was recognized for its medicinal properties in ancient China. Shennong is said to have lived about 5,000 to 6,000 years ago, indicating that the use of tea may have an extensive history.
Early Discovery and Use During the Pre-Qin Period
During the Pre-Qin period, tea was discovered and began to be used primarily as a medicinal herb. Although ancient texts like The Book of Songs and Rites of Zhou do not explicitly mention the word “tea,” they contain references that may describe early forms of tea. For instance, in The Book of Songs, the phrase “Who says the bitter plant is bitter? Its sweetness is like mustard” may refer to an early version of tea. At that time, tea cultivation was mainly concentrated in the southwestern regions, such as present-day Sichuan and Yunnan.
2. Qin, Han, and the Period of the Six Dynasties
Spread and Rise During the Qin and Han Dynasties
During the Qin and Han dynasties, tea began to spread from the southwestern regions to the central plains of China. With the unification of China under the Qin Dynasty and improved transportation, tea cultivation and consumption gradually expanded. By the Han Dynasty, tea had become a regular beverage in the lives of people in Sichuan. Historical records such as Huayang Guo Zhi document tea cultivation in the Ba and Shu regions, where tea gardens were maintained.
Moreover, during the Han Dynasty, tea started to be traded as a commodity, though its consumption was still mostly confined to regions like Sichuan and Yunnan and had not yet spread throughout the country.
Cultural Flourishing During the Period of the Six Dynasties
In the period of the Six Dynasties, as political centers shifted eastward and southward, the development of the Jiangnan region led to an expansion of tea cultivation. During this time, the culture of tea began to blossom. Scholars and literati developed a deep appreciation for tea, incorporating it into their social and cultural lives.
For example, in the Eastern Jin period, Lu Na was known for serving tea to guests, becoming a well-known story of hospitality. Literary works also started to feature tea more prominently, such as in Zu Si’s The Poem of the Lovely Daughter, which describes the urgency with which a young girl prepared tea: “My heart is set on brewing tea, puffing and blowing as I tend the pot.”
3. The Tang Dynasty
Expansion of Tea Cultivation and Production
The Tang Dynasty saw a significant expansion of tea cultivation. Tea began to be grown extensively in southern regions, including Zhejiang, Fujian, and Jiangxi. Tea became an important economic crop, and tea plantations continued to grow in scale.
The methods of tea production also advanced, with the emergence of steaming and frying techniques. These different processes led to the creation of various types of tea, such as steamed green tea bricks.
Widespread Popularity of Tea Drinking
Tea drinking became immensely popular during the Tang Dynasty, enjoyed by people from the imperial court to the common folk. Special tea banquets were held in the court, where the emperor and officials would drink tea and compose poetry. The rise of tea houses as places for social gatherings and leisure marked the growing importance of tea in everyday life.
The publication of Lu Yu’s The Classic of Tea, the world’s first book dedicated to tea, was a milestone in this era. This comprehensive work discussed the origin, types, characteristics, preparation methods, tea ware, and the art of tea-making, significantly influencing the development of tea culture during the Tang Dynasty and beyond.
Flourishing Tea Trade
As tea production increased, so did the trade in tea. The Tang Dynasty witnessed the establishment of specialized tea markets, such as the famous Fuliang Tea Market, which distributed tea throughout the country via both land and water routes. Tea from the Tang Dynasty also began to make its way to neighboring countries through the Silk Road and maritime trade routes.
4. Song Dynasty
Refinement of Tea Processing Techniques
During the Song Dynasty, tea processing became more sophisticated and intricate. The most notable tea from this period was the Dragon and Phoenix Tea Cake, which was renowned for its complex production process. Starting from the careful selection of the tenderest tea buds and leaves, the process involved steaming, pressing, grinding, and molding. The resulting tea cakes often featured exquisite dragon and phoenix patterns. In addition to tea cakes, loose tea began to develop, laying the groundwork for the transition to loose leaf tea in the Ming Dynasty.
Tea Tournaments and Cultural Activities
Tea tournaments were popular in the Song Dynasty. These competitions assessed the quality of tea based on color, aroma, and taste. Tea tournaments were not only a common practice among the public but were also held at court. The era also saw a surge in tea-related cultural activities, including tea poetry and tea paintings. Prominent poets such as Su Shi and Huang Tingjian composed many renowned poems about tea.
Development of Tea Trade and Export
The tea trade continued to flourish in the Song Dynasty, with tea becoming a significant export commodity. Through the maritime Silk Road, tea was transported to Japan, Korea, Southeast Asia, and even West Asia. Tea trade played a crucial role in the Song Dynasty’s foreign trade, and the government regulated and taxed tea commerce to ensure proper management.
5. Yuan Dynasty
Tea Consumption in the Northern Regions
Although the Yuan Dynasty was relatively brief, it made some contributions to the development of tea. Following the unification of the country, the northern grassland regions began to embrace tea. The integration and interaction between the Mongol and Han populations expanded the market for tea in the northern regions, making it a favorite drink among Mongol nobles and further broadening the tea market to the northern grasslands.
Management of Tea Production and Trade
The Yuan government implemented regulations and control over tea production and trade. A dedicated agency was established to oversee tea taxation and ensure the smooth operation of tea trade. Additionally, advancements in agricultural technology allowed for tea cultivation in previously unsuitable areas.
6. Ming Dynasty
Revolution in Tea Processing: Transition from Tea Cakes to Loose Tea
At the beginning of the Ming Dynasty, Emperor Zhu Yuanzhang decreed the end of tea cake production and the promotion of loose tea. This significant shift simplified the tea-making process, eliminating the labor-intensive steps associated with tea cakes.
This reform led to the development of various types of loose tea, including green tea, dark tea, and black tea. The production techniques for pan-fired green tea were further refined in the Ming Dynasty, enhancing the tea’s aroma and flavor.
Expansion of Tea Trade
During the Ming Dynasty, Chinese tea began to be exported in large quantities to Europe and other parts of the world. The advancement in maritime navigation and the opening of new trade routes allowed European explorers to bring Chinese tea back to Europe. By the late 16th century, Portuguese and Dutch traders started purchasing tea along the Chinese coast and selling it in Europe.
Chinese tea gained popularity in European markets and became a favorite among the aristocracy, driving further expansion of tea cultivation and trade in China.
7. Qing Dynasty
Peak of Tea Production
The Qing Dynasty saw tea production reach its peak in ancient China. Tea plantations were widespread throughout the southern provinces, and many famous tea varieties such as Fujian’s Tieguanyin and Anhui’s Keemun Black Tea were well established.
Tea output increased substantially, meeting domestic demand and enabling large-scale exports. Guangzhou became a significant port for tea exports during this time.
International Competition and Market Changes
In the early Qing period, Chinese tea dominated the international market. However, in the later stages, with the emergence of tea production in countries like India and Ceylon (modern-day Sri Lanka), China’s share in the global tea market began to decline.
With the support of European countries like Britain, Indian and Ceylon tea plantations adopted large-scale plantation methods that offered lower costs and competitive quality, which significantly impacted China’s tea exports.
8. Modern Era
Modernization of Tea Production
In modern times, tea production has become increasingly modernized. Advanced agricultural practices, such as precise fertilization and pest control, have been implemented. Additionally, tea processing now uses advanced machinery to boost production efficiency and quality.
For instance, large tea-producing companies have adopted mechanized and automated processes for harvesting, processing, and packaging tea.
Preservation and Innovation of Tea Culture
Modern society emphasizes both the preservation and innovation of tea culture. Traditional practices like tea ceremonies and tea arts continue to be passed down and celebrated. Events such as tea ceremonies and tea culture festivals are organized to promote knowledge and appreciation of tea culture.
Simultaneously, tea is adapting to contemporary lifestyles, with new product forms like tea bags and ready-to-drink tea beverages emerging to cater to various consumer preferences. Additionally, the health benefits of tea are being further researched and marketed, positioning tea as a prominent option in the healthy beverage market.
How Tea Spread Globally
Have you ever wondered how tea spread across the world and through which routes? Let’s take a closer look at this fascinating journey.
1. Land Routes
In ancient China, tea spread via the Silk Road and the Ancient Tea Horse Road. The Silk Road extended tea to Central and Western Asia around the 5th century, reaching places like modern-day Afghanistan and Iran by the Tang Dynasty. The Ancient Tea Horse Road facilitated the transport of tea from southwestern China to Tibet, Nepal, and India starting from the Tang and Song dynasties. The dissemination of tea fostered trade, cultural exchange, and agricultural development in neighboring regions.
The Silk Road
In ancient times, Chinese tea began spreading to Central and Western Asia via the Silk Road. Around the 5th century, tea was introduced as a valuable commodity through frequent trade along the Silk Road. It was often transported in the form of compressed tea cakes, which were easier to carry over long distances.
For instance, during the Tang Dynasty, increased interactions between China and neighboring countries led to tea spreading along branches of the Silk Road, reaching regions such as present-day Afghanistan and Iran. Although the distribution was limited at the time, it laid the foundation for tea’s eventual global reach.
The Ancient Tea Horse Road
The Ancient Tea Horse Road was a critical route for the spread of tea from southwestern China. Starting from the Tang and Song dynasties, tea from regions like Yunnan and Sichuan was transported via this route to Tibet, Nepal, and India. During this period, tea trade was closely linked to horse trading. It is estimated that, at its peak, millions of pounds of tea were transported annually to Tibet through the Ancient Tea Horse Road.
Tea gradually gained popularity among the various ethnic groups along the route. The northeastern region of Assam in India, influenced by this trade, was introduced to Chinese tea and later developed its own tea cultivation industry.
2. Maritime Routes
The reach of Chinese tea expanded further through maritime trade, spreading to Japan and the Korean Peninsula during the Tang Dynasty. With the advancement of seafaring in the Song Dynasty, the scale of trade grew significantly. Following the Age of Exploration, Portuguese and Dutch traders brought tea to Europe, where it gained widespread popularity, especially in Britain. European colonial expansion facilitated the spread of tea to various colonies, leading to the development of tea industries in places like India and Sri Lanka. This expanded the global cultivation and consumption of tea.
Early Maritime Trade
As early as the Tang Dynasty, tea was already being exported by sea to Japan and the Korean Peninsula. Despite limited maritime technology at the time, short-distance sea transport was achievable. Japanese envoys who visited China to study its culture also brought tea back to Japan. By the Song Dynasty, with further advancements in seafaring, the scale of maritime tea trade expanded.
Ports such as Quanzhou and Guangzhou became major hubs for tea exports. The volume of tea shipped to Japan and Korea increased annually, and the types of tea exported grew from simple green tea to include oolong tea and other varieties.
Global Spread Following the Age of Exploration
The Age of Exploration, spanning the late 15th and early 16th centuries, opened new maritime routes for European navigators. Portuguese and Dutch traders were among the first to transport Chinese tea to Europe. In 1610, the Dutch East India Company made its first tea shipment to Europe for sale. Following this, tea gradually became popular throughout Europe.
Historical records show that by the mid-17th century, tea was already becoming a fashionable beverage in England. By the 18th century, the volume of tea imported from China to England increased rapidly. In 1720, England imported approximately 200,000 pounds of tea, and by 1761, this number had surged to over 6 million pounds.
With European colonial expansion, tea was introduced to many of their colonies. For example, the British introduced tea cultivation techniques to India and Sri Lanka (then known as Ceylon). By the 1830s, large-scale tea cultivation began in India, which eventually became one of the world’s leading tea producers. Sri Lanka also developed a significant tea industry in the late 19th century, further expanding the global production and consumption of tea.
Through various land and sea routes, tea has been transported over centuries from China to every corner of the globe, becoming one of the most popular beverages in the world.
The Cultural Impact of Tea in Different Countries
Tea is an ancient beverage that has significantly influenced cultures around the world. As the birthplace of tea, China’s influence has spread globally, impacting various nations profoundly. Here are some examples of how tea has influenced these countries:
1. The United Kingdom
The formation of British tea culture is closely linked to the importation of Chinese tea. In the 17th century, tea was introduced to Britain by the East India Company and quickly became an integral part of British society. The British developed a unique tradition of afternoon tea, which became a symbol of the traditional British way of life. The widespread popularity of tea also affected the British economy and social structure, fostering trade connections with the East.
2. Japan
Japanese tea culture originated from China, particularly after monks and scholars brought it to Japan during the Tang Dynasty. Over time, Japan developed its own distinctive tea ceremony, known as chanoyu. The Japanese tea ceremony emphasizes harmony, respect, and purity, and it has become an important aspect of Japanese culture.
3. India
Although not native to India, tea gained prominence during British colonial rule, leading to the large-scale cultivation of tea, particularly in Assam and Darjeeling. The tea culture in India is intertwined with British influence, resulting in the unique chai culture. This spiced tea is extremely popular in India and has spread to other parts of the world.
4. Morocco
Moroccan tea culture has been heavily influenced by Chinese green tea. Moroccans enjoy adding mint to their tea, creating Moroccan mint tea. This beverage is not only part of daily life but also a crucial element of hospitality and social gatherings.
5. Russia
Russian tea culture has been shaped by both Chinese and British influences. Russians prefer drinking black tea, often served with lemon and sugar. Tea holds an important place in Russian society and is a staple at family gatherings and business meetings.
6. The United States
Tea culture in the United States developed later but became significant in the late 18th century, particularly during the American Revolution when tea became a symbol of resistance against British goods. Americans have developed their own tea-drinking habits, such as iced tea and instant tea, reflecting the country’s practicality and emphasis on efficiency.
Tea is more than just a beverage; it carries rich cultural meanings and social functions, serving as a bridge for cultural exchange and influence among nations. With the advancement of globalization, tea and tea culture continue to spread and evolve, fostering international understanding and friendship.
Tea-Drinking Customs Around the World
As tea spread globally and over time, various countries developed their own tea-drinking customs. Here are some examples:
1. The Japanese Tea Ceremony
The Japanese tea ceremony, or chanoyu, originated from the Chinese tea culture of the Tang Dynasty and began developing its unique style during the Muromachi period (1336–1573). Founded by Murata Jukō, it was refined by Takeno Jōō and perfected by Sen no Rikyū. The tea ceremony is not just a way of drinking tea; it is a cultural practice that integrates philosophy, religion, art, and etiquette.
Ceremonial Process
Before entering the tea room, guests pass through a carefully designed tea garden. Inside the tea room, the host follows a strict sequence of steps. First, the tea utensils are prepared, each with its own name, purpose, and placement. The host then brews the matcha, whisking the powdered green tea with hot water using a bamboo whisk to create a smooth, frothy beverage. When presenting the tea to the guest, the host’s movements are gentle, graceful, and full of respect. Guests must receive the tea bowl with specific gestures, rotate it clockwise twice to admire its design, and then drink. After drinking, guests follow the prescribed actions to clean the bowl’s rim and return it to the host. Throughout the ceremony, there is an unspoken understanding between host and guest, filled with Zen-like tranquility.
Cultural Significance
The Japanese tea ceremony emphasizes the principles of “harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility.” Wa (harmony) represents the peaceful interaction between host and guest and between individuals and their surroundings; kei (respect) underscores the mutual regard between participants; sei (purity) refers to both the cleanliness of the environment and the inner purity of the participants; and jaku (tranquility) embodies the serene state of mind that transcends worldly concerns, which the tea ceremony seeks to achieve.
2. British Afternoon Tea
The origins of British afternoon tea date back to the 1840s. At that time, there was a long gap between lunch and dinner for the British aristocracy. A duchess named Anna Maria Russell started having tea and snacks prepared around 4 or 5 PM to stave off hunger. This practice gradually gained popularity among the upper class and eventually spread to different social classes throughout Britain.
The Ceremony Process
Afternoon tea typically begins around 4 PM. The food is usually served on an elegant three-tiered stand: the bottom tier holds a variety of sandwiches, the middle contains scones served with clotted cream and jam, and the top features delicate cakes or fruit tarts. In terms of tea selection, the British often prefer black teas such as Darjeeling or Assam. Loose tea leaves are placed in a teapot and steeped in boiling water. Milk and sugar can be added according to taste. The proper way to enjoy afternoon tea involves eating the sandwiches first, followed by the scones, and ending with the cakes. Drinking tea should be done with grace, and there are specific guidelines for using utensils.
Cultural Significance
British afternoon tea serves as an important social event, embodying the elegance, leisurely lifestyle, and social etiquette of British culture. It provides a setting for conversation, news exchange, or business discussions. Afternoon tea is also a cultural icon of Britain, reflecting its social hierarchy and traditional customs.
3. Tea Brewing Customs in China
China is the birthplace of tea, with tea brewing customs that boast a long history and rich diversity. Due to its vast territory, different regions have distinct tea brewing methods and traditions. For example, in the Chaoshan area, Gongfu tea is a notable and highly traditional practice, deeply rooted in local culture.
The Ceremony Process of Gongfu Tea
The tea set for Gongfu tea is quite intricate, including teapots, cups, tea washers, tea trays, and more. The process begins by rinsing the tea set with hot water, known as “warming the pot and cups.” Then, tea leaves are added, typically filling about one-third of the pot. Boiling water is poured over the tea leaves with a high pour to stimulate the leaves and release their fragrance. This is followed by steps such as skimming the foam and drenching the pot. The brewed tea is then poured into small cups in a low, steady stream to ensure equal concentration. When tasting, one should first inhale the tea’s aroma, then take small sips, and finish the cup in three sips to appreciate the tea’s nuanced flavors.
Cultural Significance
China’s tea brewing customs are imbued with profound cultural meaning. Tea symbolizes elegance, tranquility, and harmony. The process of brewing and drinking tea is also seen as a form of self-cultivation, reflecting the Chinese pursuit of quality living and respect for tradition. The diverse tea practices across regions also showcase local customs and cultural identities.
Benefits of Drinking Tea
Incorporating tea into our diet has improved dietary structures, bringing numerous health benefits, especially due to its high content of polyphenols and antioxidants. From cardiovascular health to cognitive function, the positive effects of tea are increasingly supported by research. Meanwhile, moderate tea consumption combined with a balanced diet is crucial.
1. Polyphenols and Their Effects
Polyphenols are abundant antioxidants found in tea, particularly in green tea and black tea. They play a significant role in protecting the body against oxidative stress, which can lead to chronic diseases. Studies have shown that consuming beverages rich in polyphenols, like tea, may reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and certain types of cancer.
A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition indicated that regular green tea drinkers had lower cholesterol levels and improved cardiovascular health metrics compared to non-drinkers.
2. Antioxidant Properties
The antioxidant properties of tea help combat free radicals in the body. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cells and contribute to aging and various diseases. A review in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry noted that tea, especially green tea, is one of the most effective dietary sources of antioxidants, surpassing other beverages. Research from the British Journal of Nutrition also highlighted that antioxidants found in tea could enhance the body’s detoxification capabilities, thus promoting overall health and longevity.
3. Mental Health and Cognitive Function
Tea is also associated with cognitive benefits. A study in the Journal of Nutrition found that regular tea consumption was linked to improved mental alertness and might even lower the risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s. The polyphenols in tea are believed to protect brain cells from damage and improve cerebral blood flow, thereby boosting cognitive function.
The polyphenols and antioxidants in tea have been linked to various positive health outcomes. While research is ongoing, existing evidence suggests that tea, as a healthy beverage, may contribute positively to cardiovascular health, cancer prevention, neuroprotection, and weight management. However, it is essential to remember that tea cannot replace medical treatment, and individuals with specific health conditions should follow their doctor’s advice. Additionally, different types of tea and individual differences may influence the actual health benefits.
Conclusion
Tea originated in China, with its medicinal properties first discovered in ancient legend by Shennong. Over millennia, tea has evolved into a globally cherished beverage. Culturally, tea has integrated into the traditions of many countries—Japanese tea ceremonies, British afternoon tea, and more, highlighting tea’s role as a medium of social interaction, ritual, and spiritual depth. Economically, tea remains a vital industry in major producing countries like India and China, contributing jobs and holding a significant share in global trade. Through routes like the Silk Road, the Tea Horse Road, and early maritime trade, tea has spread from China to the world.
Tea’s health benefits are numerous, thanks to its polyphenols and antioxidants that contribute to cardiovascular health, cognitive function, and more. Overall, tea is more than just a beverage; it is a symbol of cultural exchange, economic growth, and a healthy lifestyle. Its unique appeal continues to be cherished, shared, and innovated upon worldwide, influencing our dietary habits and social traditions.
