What is Tea?

To some, tea is a simple beverage to warm us when we are feeling cold, to refresh us when we are feeling hot, or to soothe us when we are feeling unwell. To others, tea is a social custom, a chance to sit, chat and maybe even nibble on some treats. In some parts of the world tea is a part of rituals that have been passed down through cultural traditions and customs. To some, tea itself is even a commodity. The role of tea throughout history and to some cultures is incredibly impactful. To me, it is incredible to think that tea, in all its history and all its forms comes from a single leaf — Camelia Sinensis.

The Camelia Sinensis is the scientific name for the tea plant. All the different varieties of tea we enjoy today from white, green, oolong, and black tea come from the Camelia Sinensis.