Since it’s discovery by the Chinese emperor Shen Nong, tea drink was refreshing the man kind for generations. This 5000 year old drink eventually became the most popular beverage in the world after water. Here I am referring to Black, Green, Oolong, White etc teas manufactured from the plant Camellia sinensis. Tisanes (Herbal infusions ) such as Chamomile, Rooibos, Yerba mate etc are out from the equation.

Have you ever thought reasons or the secret behind the success story of this noble drink ? I my opinion there are quite a few. As we all know tea refreshes us. Not only the body, but also our souls.

Tea is the only popular beverage which provides stimulation and relaxation at the same time. Alkaloids like caffeine present in tea stimulates our body while L-theanine provides a calming effect.

Anti-oxidants present in this beverage is known to reduce the effect of cardio vascular diseases, diabetes, cancers and many others. Scientists have also claimed that antioxidants has got the ability to reduce the aging process (Reference 1).

It also contains 0 calories when consuming without any additives like milk and sugar. Tea can also be consumed in both hot and cold forms.

The other specific feature is the diversity. If we take different tea types, sensory properties are so different when when moving from Dark Pu-erh towards plain, least processed white teas. Particle sizes are ranging from largest grade OPA (Orange Pekoe A) or even whole leaf specialty grades like silver / golden tips to finest grades like Dust and Matcha green tea powder. This is a strong factor which has assisted tea’s penetration in to consumers with different tastes.

Therefore tea is full of health and functional benefits which no other beverage can offer while refreshing the body. So there is no surprise of tea being the most popular beverage in the world. In the future, I expect to discuss on all above matters and myths going around the industry in details. Until then all you need to do is to enjoy your humble cuppa.

Reference

1. Antioxidants and aging: https://pdfs.semanticscholar.org/3ed6/fc37864e076a9681b8f1dce4d482258b17a8.pdf

2. Picture source: https://worldteadirectory.com/item/tea-association-u-s-a-inc/