Green tea is widely revered as one of the healthiest drinks on the planet. The tea has evolved over time and today, every cafe serves delicious versions ranging from Jasmine and Mint to Matcha Green tea.
Though Green tea has evolved to suit various tastes and cultures, it still stands the test of time as one of the most popular beverages across the world.
The Origin of Green Tea
Green tea has its origins in the country of China. It is said to have been steeped and consumed for the first time during the reign of Emperor Shennong in 2737 BC. This tea later made its way to Japan through Buddhist monks and gradually, was introduced to other European countries through tea merchants.
Today, Green tea is widely produced in several Asian countries including China, Korea, Japan and South East Asia. Owing to its numerous benefits, it has found an important place in industries ranging from food and medicine to beauty and aromatherapy.
Mythology and Chinese significance
Green tea has come a long way from being a traditional medicine and a luxury beverage only the privileged could afford.
Legend states that Green tea was first discovered by Chinese Emperor Shennong. It is said that a few leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant fell into his cup of hot water, and that the emperor loved the taste.
This accidental discovery led the way to the growth of the popular Green tea culture in China.
Cultivation, propagation and popularization of Green Tea
Even though Green tea was first grown in China, the drink gradually grew followers in other cultures as well. It was made popular in Japan when a Zen priest visiting China returned to Japan with tea seeds and plants. Initially intended to be used as a meditation ritual, the consumption of tea became hugely popular among the local Japanese community.
In the sixteenth century, European traders helped spread the popularity of Green tea to the West. Though slow, the beverage gained immense prominence in the Western world owing to its rich history and therapeutic properties.
Green Tea in the modern world as a health drink
Today, Green tea is an integral part of the society we live in. The drink is available in versatile flavours and tastes to suit different palates, and its consumption has seen an increasing trend in recent times.
With its ever-popular benefits coming to the fore, it seems as if the world has already embraced the Green tea wave, and will continue to do so for a very long time.
Brewing Green Tea
An electric kettle with an option for temperature control is probably the most useful equipment you could have while making Green tea. An important tip to remember is to take care that the water isn’t too hot, or the scorched tea could take on a bitter flavour.
Different types of Green teas have different brewing and steeping times, so it is best to check the recommendations before you begin. Ensuring the right temperature of water makes a world of difference during the brewing process.
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