Drinking TEA – Medicine or Beverage?

Tea has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to 2737 BC when Chinese Emperor Shen Nung discovered its remarkable properties. He found that drinking tea was more pleasant than hot water and believed it could remedy kidney trouble, fever, chest infections, and tumors.

Initially, only the Emperor and the royal court circles had the privilege of enjoying tea, as it was considered a medicinal drink. However, the habit of tea drinking slowly spread to the masses in China, and by the end of the 6th century, it became a popular refreshment.

The strong beliefs about tea’s medicinal properties accompanied its spread from China to other parts of the world. In 1675, Thomas Garway offered tea for the first time to the public in his London coffee house, where he expounded its virtues in the first broadsheet advertisement of tea. Since then, tea has become a beloved beverage enjoyed by people worldwide for its taste, aroma, and health benefits.

Tea drinking has become a global phenomenon, with people of all ages and backgrounds enjoying it as a social drink for its pleasant taste and stimulating effects. It ranks second only to water as the most-consumed beverage.

Although Emperor Shen Nung and Thomas Garway may have appeared to exaggerate the health benefits of tea in the past, modern biomedical research confirms its ability to prevent illness and promote longevity.

Studies indicate that tea contains powerful antioxidants and other bioactive compounds that can boost immunity, protect against chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease, and even enhance mental health. So, when you savor a cup of tea, remember that you’re not only enjoying a delicious drink but also nourishing your body and mind.