What Is Tea?

Ah, tea. It’s more than just a drink, isn’t it? For some, it’s a ritual. For others, it’s the start (or end) of a perfect day. But what is tea, really? Let’s dive into the world of this beloved brew and answer the questions that might be bubbling away in your mind.

The Basics: What Makes Tea, Well, Tea?

Technically speaking, all "true teas" come from a single plant: Camellia sinensis. Surprised? We’ve got black, green, white, and oolong teas all growing from the same leafy beginnings. The difference? It’s all about how they’re processed—oxidised (or not) to different levels, creating the diverse flavours you know and love. But if you’ve ever wondered where your peppermint, rooibos, or chamomile fits in, those are what we call “herbal teas”—not true tea in the botanical sense, but equally wonderful in their own right.

Why Is Tea Called Tea?

Glad you asked! The word “tea” comes from the Chinese “t’e,” which referred to the leaves of the tea plant. Over centuries, as the world connected and traded, the name stuck. Whether you’re sipping “chai” in India or enjoying a cuppa in the UK, you’re sharing in a tradition that’s thousands of years old.

Do the British Really Love Tea?

Tea has been intertwined with British culture since the 17th century, and it’s still a daily ritual for many. Whether you’re dunking biscuits into it or adding a splash of milk (a practice rooted in tradition to prevent delicate china cups from cracking), tea is a steadfast companion to conversations, comfort, and cold mornings.

So, How Do We Categorise Tea?

Great question! Tea is usually classified into different types based on how much the leaves have been oxidised:

• Black tea: Fully oxidised, giving you a bold, strong flavour.
• Green tea: Unoxidised, keeping things fresh and grassy.
• White tea: Minimally processed, delicate, and light.
• Oolong: Somewhere between black and green, with a floral, complex profile.

Each type has its own personality, and whether you’re after a deep, comforting brew or something light and refreshing, there’s a tea to match your mood.

But What About Herbal Teas?

Herbal teas aren’t technically “tea” because they don’t come from the Camellia sinensis plant. Instead, they’re infusions made from herbs, spices, flowers, and fruits. From calming chamomile to zesty ginger, herbal teas offer an endless variety of flavours and benefits without any caffeine—perfect for any time of day or night.

A Little History: Who Invented Tea?

Legend has it that tea was discovered over 4,000 years ago by Chinese Emperor Shen Nong when some tea leaves accidentally blew into his pot of boiling water. Talk about a happy accident! Fast forward to today, and tea has become a global favourite, from the busy streets of London to the serene tea houses of Japan.

How to Describe Tea in One Word?

Comfort. Adventure. Connection. Tea is whatever you need it to be—a quiet moment to yourself or a warm invitation to sit and chat with friends. Every cup is a journey, from the leaf to your teacup, with flavours that carry stories from all over the world.

At its heart, tea is simple—leaves and water—but its impact is profound. It’s the pause in your busy day, the warmth in your hands, and the flavour that lingers long after the last sip. So, whether you're a long-time tea lover or just starting your tea journey, there’s always something new to discover in every cup. What’s your next tea adventure?