Tea 101

Tea is believed to have originated in the region encompassing North Burma and Southwest China. The practice of tea drinking dates back to the Shang dynasty in China, where it was consumed for medicinal purposes. By the Tang dynasty, it became widely popular as a recreational drink. Discoveries and historical texts suggest that tea plants (Camellia sinensis) were first cultivated in China, with evidence pointing to Yunnan Province as the cradle for these plants. Here, the tea was processed from the leaves of wild trees. As you travel through time, you find that the use of tea later spread to...

Shop our Pu Erh Tea collections! When you heat water for tea in a microwave, the process involves microwave radiation, a form of energy that causes water molecules to vibrate rapidly. This vibration generates heat through friction, which raises the temperature of the water. Microwave Power Levels and Water Temperature: Low (30-50% power): Suitable for gentle heating. Water heats more evenly but takes longer. Medium (50-80% power): Balances speed and even heating. Good for most purposes. High (100% power): Heats water quickly but can cause uneven heating and superheating. Preventing Superheating: Superheated water is water heated past its boiling point...

Proper tea steeping unlocks the full flavor and potential health benefits of your tea leaves. Key factors include the type of tea, water temperature, and steeping time. Types of Tea Black Tea: Fully oxidized, robust flavor. Optimal Temperature: 95-100°C (203-212°F) Steeping Time: 3-5 minutes Green Tea: Minimally oxidized, delicate taste. Optimal Temperature: 75-80°C (167-176°F) Steeping Time: 2-3 minutes White Tea: Least oxidized, subtle and sweet. Optimal Temperature: 65-70°C (149-158°F) Steeping Time: 4-5 minutes Oolong Tea: Partially oxidized, diverse flavors. Optimal Temperature: 80-85°C (176-185°F) Steeping Time: 3-5 minutes Herbal Tea: Not from the Camellia sinensis plant, varied ingredients. Optimal Temperature: 95-100°C...

When considering teas for energy, green tea is a standout option. It contains caffeine, a natural stimulant, and L-theanine, which works in synergy with caffeine to enhance alertness while promoting a calm state of mind. Black tea offers a higher caffeine content, making it a robust choice for your morning routine. Its rich flavor profiles range from malty to sweet, with the added benefit of containing antioxidants. White tea is the least processed tea, preserving high levels of caffeine and catechins. Expect a lighter taste but a revitalizing effect similar to green or black teas. Yerba mate is a South...