According to Chinese legend, tea was discovered in 2737 BCE by Emperor Shen Nong when leaves from a wild tree blew into his pot of boiling water.
The British tradition of afternoon tea was started by Anna, Duchess of Bedford, in 1840 to bridge the long gap between lunch and dinner.
All true teas come from the Camellia sinensis plant. The difference lies in how they're processed.
Tea plants thrive in tropical and subtropical climates with plenty of rainfall.
Only the top two leaves and bud are hand-picked for premium teas.
Leaves are spread out to reduce moisture content.
Leaves are rolled to release enzymes and essential oils.
The key process that determines tea type (green, black, oolong).
Heat stops oxidation and dries the leaves for storage.
Tea is the second most consumed beverage in the world after water.
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