Tea, Tea and more Tea

Tea is said to originate from China in the year 2737 BC when emperor Shennong, inventor of agriculture and Chinese medicine, stumbled upon the amazing restorative properties of tea. Since then, tea plays a major role in the culture of the world, especially in Asia. It is now a staple beverage with restorative and medicinal properties.

Tea contains high levels of antioxidants in the form of catechins. A dried tea leaf may contain catechins levels of up to a third in its weight; this is much higher in white and green varieties. Black tea however has lower amounts of antioxidants due to the oxidative processing it undergoes. Tea also contains Caffeine and Thiamine; stimulants that help refresh the drinker and improve blood circulation.

The green variety has been known for its protective properties against an array of diseases including cancer. Its main advantage is the presence of EGCG, an antioxidant proved to be effective at preventing lung, breast and prostate cancers. Tea also increases one’s metabolism thus increasing the rate of fat burnt. This is proven in research papers quoted to show properties which promote weight loss.

Black tea on the other hand has higher caffeine levels thus producing a stronger flavour. It retains its flavour more than the other varieties, usually for a few years, and is thus the more popular form. Black tea accounts for over 90% of all tea sales in the west.

Oolong tea is yet another variety which is in between the black and green varieties. Oolong stands for “Black Dragon” in Chinese and is prepared by oxidizing the leaves to about 70% of that done to produce black tea.

Premium tea brews such as Grey and Seddon tea or delicate tea are prepared by stepping for a relatively shorter duration to produce the texture and flavour desired.

The tea’s profile is highly influenced by the altitude and season of harvesting as it may alter its taste. Pure teas are infused in boiling water followed by stepping for about one to five minutes.
Tea remains as a popular beverage and is increasing in popularity among other parts of the world.