The journey of tea is a fascinating tale that spans centuries and crosses continents. From its ancient origins in China to its widespread cultivation and consumption around the world, tea has become an integral part of many cultures and traditions.
Discovery and Early History of Tea:
Tea is believed to have been discovered in China around 2737 BCE by Emperor Shen Nung, a legendary figure and herbalist. According to legend, the emperor was boiling water when leaves from a nearby tea plant (Camellia sinensis) fell into his pot. Intrigued by the aroma, he tasted the brew and found it refreshing and invigorating. Thus, tea was born.
Another version of the legend says that the Emperor being a herbalist used to test nuts, berries and herbs on himself. One day he was poisoned and before the venom could kill him a leaf blown by wind fell in his mouth. He started chewing it and was revived. Although we know that tea may energise but does not treat poisonings, it is interesting story to recite.
It is believed that in ancient China, tea was consumed by cooking with grain or individually as a vegetable and it only moved from food to drink later on. According to The World of Caffeine: The Science and Culture of the World’s Most Popular Drug by Bennett Alan Weinberg, Bonnie K. Bealer, the earliest reliable reference of tea drinking is found in a Chinese book Shin Lun written by Hua Tuo in 220 BCE. In this he states that “to drink bitter tea (k’u t’u) constantly makes one think better.”
For centuries, tea was primarily consumed in China for its medicinal properties. It wasn’t until the Tang Dynasty (618-907 CE) that tea became a popular beverage and an integral part of Chinese culture. The famous Chinese tea master, Lu Yu, wrote “The Classic of Tea” during this period, which detailed the art of tea cultivation, processing, and preparation.
Introduction of Tea to Other Parts of the World:
- Japan:
Tea was introduced to Japan in the 9th century by Buddhist monks who had studied in China. The Japanese embraced tea and developed their own unique tea culture, including the famous Japanese tea ceremony, or chanoyu. - Middle East and Europe:
Tea reached the Middle East and Europe including the United Kingdom through trade routes, particularly the Silk Road. The Dutch East India Company played a significant role in popularising tea in Europe in the 17th century. Tea became a fashionable beverage among the aristocracy, and its popularity eventually spread to the general population. - India:
Although tea plants were native to India, it wasn’t until the British East India Company began cultivating tea in the 19th century that it became a significant producer. The British established tea plantations in Assam and Darjeeling, and tea became a popular beverage in India, giving rise to the famous Indian chai. - Sri Lanka (Ceylon):
Tea was introduced to Sri Lanka in the 19th century by the British, who established plantations after a devastating fungus wiped out the island’s coffee crops. Ceylon tea became renowned for its quality and flavour. - America:
Tea was introduced into the North America in 1640 by the Dutch traders just as in Europe. Later on the East India Company became the major supplier.
In the South America tea was introduced in Brazil by the Portuguese and it spread due to Japanese migration.
As tea travelled through the world it acquired many local names. These local names are variations of ‘Cha’ or ‘Te’ and both these terms come from China, where it was first discovered.
Global Tea Production:
According to the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations, the total global tea production in 2019 was approximately 6.3 million metric tons. The top three tea-producing countries were:
- China: 2.62 million metric tons
- India: 1.39 million metric tons
- Kenya: 0.49 million metric tons
Global Tea Consumption:
Worldwide tea consumption in 2019 was estimated at around 5.8 million metric tons. The top three tea-consuming countries were:
- China: 2.17 million metric tons
- India: 1.10 million metric tons
- Turkey: 0.23 million metric tons
In conclusion, the journey of tea from its discovery in ancient China to its widespread cultivation and consumption around the world is a testament to its enduring appeal and cultural significance. Tea is also considered to have many health benefits. Today, tea remains one of the most popular beverages globally, with millions of people enjoying its diverse flavours and varieties.
Reference:
The World of Caffeine: The Science and Culture of the World’s Most Popular Drug
Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations website
