Below we will have a look at some basic facts about tea as well as go over some common tea knowledge. I promise that when you're done reading this page, you'll know more tea facts than your neighbor!
Tea is the second most consumed beverage in the world, playing second fiddle only to water. It is in almost every culture, and there are literally thousands of varieties.
Some historical notes suggest that tea has been a warm beverage companion to man for over five thousands years! Other recordings state only three thousand...but either way, that is a long time.
There are four main types of tea which are, white, green, oolong, and black, all which are born from the same species of plant.
Common health facts about tea show us that it is rich in antioxidants, can shield our immune systems, stop infection, and even help us shed some pounds!
Tea is a beverage that is enjoyed in the morning, afternoon, or evening, whether feeling ill or good, and can be consumed hot or cold.
But what exactly is tea? Where does it come from? And what is the best way to enjoy it? Let's find out...
Introducing Camellia Sinensis
Camellia sinensis is the scientific classification for the tea plant.
One of the most interesting and surprising facts about tea for newcomers is that ALL types of tea, white, green, oolong, and black, come from the same plant, the Camellia sinensis. What determines a type of tea's "color" is the processing the newly picked leaves will undergo before they reach your cup.
Camellia is native to most of Southeast Asia, but is cultivated throughout the world in other countries such as Japan and India. It is even grown in some areas of the United States as well.
Most Common Countries
China:
China is the birthplace of tea and gives to us some of the finest varieties of white and green teas. Although China is the origin of tea, surprisingly, it is not the world's largest overall producer of tea.
Japan:
Japanese tea like "sencha" and "gyokuro" are one of the most popular and favorite varieties. Japan has an interesting tea culture worth exploring, and tea worth trying.
India:
You may not know it, but Indian tea is the world's most consumed tea! It is also the world's largest tea producer, with an estimated 850,000 tons of tea being processed each year! A very common type of tea is Indian black tea, like Assam tea, and Darjeeling tea.
Before I just send you the link to the page, I'll give a slight preview and state that the only true way to enjoy the thousands of varieties of this awesome beverage is to brew it loose leaf style! Out of all the facts about tea, that is a good one to keep in mind.
