Chinese Tea – the Great Heritage From China

The legend says that tea was discovered accidentally in 2737 BC by the Chinese Emperor Shennong. While he was boiling water, a leaf from a Camellia sinensis tree fell into the vessel and flavored the Emperor’s water. He liked the drink and started to consume it regularly. With the centuries tea became very tightly connected to the cultural life of China, as well as to the religions in the region. Actually since 8th century BC to drink tea is considered as self-cultivation by the Chinese people.
There are four main categories of Chinese tea – white, green, oolong and black, although another three categories are usually added to the main ones – red, compressed and scented teas. All of these types are variety of the tea plant. Of course, there is huge variety in these main categories too.
The variety mainly comes from the differences in the tea leaves treatment after they are picked up. Green and white teas are treated with heat right after harvesting to prevent oxidization, often called fermentation. Oolong teas are partially oxidized while red and black teas are fully oxidized. Other differences come from variations in the processing steps.
As essential part of the Chinese culture, every home in the country has a tea set for preparation and consumption of Chinese tea. When a visitor comes to a Chinese home, it’s a tradition to be welcomed with cup of freshly made tea while the conversation is going on.
In the Chinese culture and daily life there are several special moments in which Chinese tea is prepared and consumed: as a sign of respect from the youngest to elders, during a family gathering, as a mean to apologize or to express thanks to the parents on one’s wedding day and also to connect large families on wedding days.
Outside China, each country has its own traditions and occasions connected to tea. In some countries, just like in China, there are rituals for its preparation and drinking. Chinese tea is worldwide known for its refreshing qualities. Why not you also enjoy a cup of that ancient drink?