Chinese tea has a long history in China and all over the world. It has been part of Chinese culture for a long time and is considered a drink that has a positive spiritual and physical effect on the human body and mind.
Origin of Chinese Tea
Tea was first used in China during the Han Dynasty (202 BC—220 AD). At that time, it was drunk just for medicinal purposes. Later, due to its numerous positive aspects, it was incorporated into the culture of China and became an everyday beverage around the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD).
Buddhist Monk
Who first introduced tea to China is a complicated topic, as there are two prominent opinions among the locals. Some say that it was the Buddhist monks who first brought tea to China and used to consume it to relax their bodies and minds before meditating.
Shennong
Some people believe that Emperor Shennong introduced tea to China when he accidentally stumbled upon the tea plant while wandering around in the mountains. He is also said to have introduced several other helpful food crops to the Chinese. However, keep in mind that Shennong is treated more like a mythical deity rather than a human being.
The Source of Chinese Tea
The source of Chinese tea is the Camellia Sinensis plant. This wonder plant produces tea leaves, which are further used to create several other types of tea, such as Oolong, Black, Green, Yellow, and White Tea.
Note: Although herbal tea is often referred to as tea, it is not derived from tea plants. Instead, it is made from different herbs boiled in water to extract their medicinal properties.
Gongfu Tea Ceremony
As tea has a long history in China, it has also made its way into rituals and ceremonies, one particular one being the Gongfu Tea Ceremony. The goal of this ceremony is to appreciate tea, tea leaves, and the utensils that are used in making tea, as well as to improve the bondage between the family. The ceremony proceeds like this:
- Washing the leaves and the utensils
- Brewing the tea
- Pouring and serving the tea
- Appreciating the tea.
The Use of Tea as Medicine
When Chinese tea was first introduced, it was only used as medicine. It was drunk to ease the body and mind and relieve pain. In modern-day, tea is still used as medicine in some parts of the world.
Modern Wellness and Tea
Tea has also profoundly rooted itself in modern wellness. Each year, several studies are carried out to determine its effects on the human body, and the results are pleasing.
What makes Chinese Oolong Tea So Special?
The reason for health benefits of Chinese teas are catechins, antioxidants, and L-theanine. Catechins improve metabolism, and antioxidants help strengthen your body and prevent it from catching diseases. L-theanine relaxes the body and mind. Among all types of tea, only the best Oolong tea contains all three components, making it the most special.
Protection from Several Fatal Diseases
Chinese Tea protects the human body from several fatal diseases, such as several types of cancer, heart diseases and strokes, and diabetes. Tea contains antioxidants, mainly polyphenols, that help prevent all of these diseases.
Relaxation to the Body and Mind
Tea contains L-theanine, a chemical that helps to relax the human body and mind. This chemical slows the rate of caffeine absorption in the blood, producing a calming effect that lasts for an extended period.
Anti-Aging Properties
The antioxidantstea’s antioxidants also fight free radicals that may enter the body from any source. These antioxidants can help protect cells, slow down the aging process, and make you appear younger.
Conclusion
Tea is a natural source of wellness that can help you gain a lot with no risks. It is entirely organic and is one of the best drinks that you can have daily to start your day and stay fresh and energetic throughout it.
