Saturday, 1 March 2025

Your Majesty, Tea

 Ancient Tea: Tradition and well-being in Every Cup

After water, tea and coffee are the most consumed beverages in the world. Originally from China, tea is not only a drink but also a deeply rooted cultural tradition in several countries.

The tea ceremony is practiced in various Asian countries, including China, Japan, Korea, Taiwan, and Vietnam. In Japan, powdered green tea, known as Matcha, is served in a specially designed space for the ceremony. Before entering the room, participants must wash their hands and mouth and bow as a sign of respect.


 

In countries like India and Pakistan, black tea is quite popular and is prepared with spiced such as cardamon, cinnamon, cloves, and ginger. This blend gives it a diverse flavour, making it suitable to enjoy different and refined palates.

China is the world’s largest tea producer, followed by India. However, according to data from Statista, Turkey is the country where the most tea is consumed. Other countries with high level of tea consumption include Ireland, the United Kingdom, Iran, Russia, Morocco, New Zealand, Chile, Egypt, and Poland.

For millennia, tea in China was a medicinal beverage made by boiling fresh leaves in water. Portuguese sailors brought it to Europe, where it became popular among the aristocracy. When Catherine of Braganza married Charles II, she introduced the drink to the royal court, making tea popular in England.

During the Industrial Revolution, the working class adopted the tradition of “tea time,” which is now internationally recognised. Tea is typically enjoyed between three and five in the afternoon as a light meal designed to restore energy after work.

 

Types of Tea

All types of tea come from the same plant, Camellia sinensis, but they differ in the way they are processed. There are six main types of tea, each with specific characteristics that influence its aroma, appearance, flavour, texture, and body.

 

Green Tea

It is made from unfermented leaves, which allows it to retain its green colour and high antioxidant content. Green tea has a mild flavour and may help boost metabolism.

 

Black Tea

This type of tea is fully fermented and oxidized. This process gives it a strong and dark colour. Black tea contains more caffeine and may benefit heart health.

Oolong Tea

Since it is partially fermented, this tea has a flavour that falls between green tea and black tea. It aids digestion and helps weight control.

White Tea

This type of tea is harvested from young leaves and undergoes minimal processing, making it quite mild and delicate. It contains high levels of antioxidants and has a low caffeine content.

Pu-erh Tea

This tea is deep brown with reddish hues. It is fermented and aged and can have an earthy or wood-like flavour. 

It is believed to help reduce cholesterol.

 

Yellow Tea

This is a semi-fermented tea with a yellowish colour. Its processing is similar to that of green tea, but with a slower drying stage, which gives it a milder and more aromatic flavour.

 Health Benefits of Drinking Tea

Drinking tea offers numerous health benefits, thanks to its bioactive compounds, antioxidants, and relaxing properties. Here are some of the main benefits:

Tea is rich in antioxidants

Tea contains polyphenols, which are powerful antioxidants. These help fight free radicals, reducing cellular damage and the risk of chronic diseases. The antioxidants in green tea have been linked to a lower risk of cardiovascular diseases and certain types of cancer.

Tea improves heart health

Regular tea consumption improves cardiovascular health; it can lower cholesterol levels and enhance blood vessel function. Green tea, in particular, has been associated with reduced blood pressure and lower risk of heart disease.

Tea aids weight loss

Tea, especially green tea, can slightly boost metabolism, helping burn more calories. The caffeine and catechins in tea improve fat oxidation, which aids in weight loss.

Tea helps alleviate digestive issues

Certain teas, like peppermint or ginger tea, can help relieve digestive problems such as indigestion, heartburn, and bloating. Chamomile tea has calming properties and is useful for relaxing the muscles of the digestive system.

Tea may reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases

Due to its antioxidant properties, tea helps protect neurons and reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Drinking tea regularly can improve cognitive functions, reducing age-related mental decline.

Tea has calming effects

Some teas, such as lavender, chamomile, and valerian, have relaxing properties that can help reduce stress and improves sleep quality. Green tea contains L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes relaxation without causing drowsiness, enhancing concentration and helping reduce anxiety.

Tea strengthens the immune system

White tea and green tea contain compounds that help maintain a healthy immune system. Some teas, such as ginger tea, can strengthen the immune system and help fight infections.

Tea contributes to hydration

Herbal teas are excellent for staying hydrated. Although tea contains caffeine, its content is lower than that of coffee, making it still beneficial for hydration.

In conclusion, tea is a very healthy beverage. Each type of tea has its own benefits, and daily consumption improves our overall well-being. There’s nothing better than enjoying a cup of tea, savouring its flavour, and sharing a pleasant conversation with friends.

 

 Bibliography:


By Isabel O'Donoghue at

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Your Majesty, Tea

  Ancient Tea: Tradition and well-being in Every Cup After water, tea and coffee are the most consumed beverages in the world. Originally ...