The tea leaf is the consumable component of the tea plant, known for its use in making hot beverages. A leaf tea Scottsdale is a popular and healthy beverage which is consumed all over. A long and rich history is associated with the preparation and consumption of tea, and in many parts of the world, it forms an essential part of traditional ceremonies.
The origins of tea are elusive, but is known to have been discovered in China. The most popular legend attributes its discovery to Emperor Shenong in 2737 BC. Japan, due to its close proximity to China and the frequent travel of Buddhist monks between the two countries, was the first country to share in this newly discovered delicacy. It wasn't until the seventeenth century that it was introduced by the English royal family.
Soaking tea leaves in hot or warm water is the most common way to brew tea. Due to high levels of antioxidants and other health benefits, teas in the Han Dynasty were used in religious ceremonies. Also due to the scarcity of the leaves when they were first discovered, only the rich were able to afford to drink tea. However, as more varieties were discovered and grown, brewing tea became a normal household habit internationally.
Tea leaves are grown in bulk these days, even in people's backyards. Warm climates are perfect conditions to grow tea leaves, but they can also be grown in greenhouses to avoid the frost. Perhaps this climate requirement is why China and India are the two largest producers of tea in the world. Currently, over thirty countries produce and export tea leaves in bulk from their plantations.
Green, black, oolong, and white teas are all very popular but also all come from the same plant species: Camellia sinensis. The differences in flavor and visuals between these varieties are due to the location they were grown in, when they were harvested, and also how they were produced for brewing. Herbal teas are also popular choices, but they actually have nothing to do with the original tea plant.
Before brewing, the foliage of the plant must be processed. The most popular black tea is processed in five steps. Initially, the leaves are spread out to begin the drying process known as withering. Secondly, the leaves are either rolled or chopped, and depending on weather, the orthodox or CTC method follows. Oxidation follows by spreading the leaves out in a warm, damp area. Drying and sorting are the last step before the crop is ready for commercial distribution.
Beneficial properties are attributed to this humble plant, and research shows how far-reaching they are. Researchers have found positive effects on vital organs, resulting in protection from cancer, diabetes and heart disease. These results are probably due to flavonoids, which are abundant in tea. Caffeine presence is thought to also encourage weight loss and increase mental alertness.
Tea is the second most widely consumed drink, surpassed only by water. This may be due to the dry crop being widely available. As society becomes increasingly health conscious and more benefits of this plant are revealed, the popularity of this drink only seems to increase.
The origins of tea are elusive, but is known to have been discovered in China. The most popular legend attributes its discovery to Emperor Shenong in 2737 BC. Japan, due to its close proximity to China and the frequent travel of Buddhist monks between the two countries, was the first country to share in this newly discovered delicacy. It wasn't until the seventeenth century that it was introduced by the English royal family.
Soaking tea leaves in hot or warm water is the most common way to brew tea. Due to high levels of antioxidants and other health benefits, teas in the Han Dynasty were used in religious ceremonies. Also due to the scarcity of the leaves when they were first discovered, only the rich were able to afford to drink tea. However, as more varieties were discovered and grown, brewing tea became a normal household habit internationally.
Tea leaves are grown in bulk these days, even in people's backyards. Warm climates are perfect conditions to grow tea leaves, but they can also be grown in greenhouses to avoid the frost. Perhaps this climate requirement is why China and India are the two largest producers of tea in the world. Currently, over thirty countries produce and export tea leaves in bulk from their plantations.
Green, black, oolong, and white teas are all very popular but also all come from the same plant species: Camellia sinensis. The differences in flavor and visuals between these varieties are due to the location they were grown in, when they were harvested, and also how they were produced for brewing. Herbal teas are also popular choices, but they actually have nothing to do with the original tea plant.
Before brewing, the foliage of the plant must be processed. The most popular black tea is processed in five steps. Initially, the leaves are spread out to begin the drying process known as withering. Secondly, the leaves are either rolled or chopped, and depending on weather, the orthodox or CTC method follows. Oxidation follows by spreading the leaves out in a warm, damp area. Drying and sorting are the last step before the crop is ready for commercial distribution.
Beneficial properties are attributed to this humble plant, and research shows how far-reaching they are. Researchers have found positive effects on vital organs, resulting in protection from cancer, diabetes and heart disease. These results are probably due to flavonoids, which are abundant in tea. Caffeine presence is thought to also encourage weight loss and increase mental alertness.
Tea is the second most widely consumed drink, surpassed only by water. This may be due to the dry crop being widely available. As society becomes increasingly health conscious and more benefits of this plant are revealed, the popularity of this drink only seems to increase.
