Fascinating and Lesser-Known Facts About Tea’s Rich Legacy.

By: Babita Singh

wisdomimbibe.com

Tea has its roots in ancient China, with legends dating its discovery to around 2737 BCE by Emperor Shen Nong. 

Compressed bricks of tea once served as a form of currency in regions like China and Mongolia, exchanged for items such as spices and livestock. 

One of the priciest teas in the world, Da Hong Pao, is an exclusive oolong variety that can fetch up to $1,000 per gram due to its rarity and rich taste. 

British botanist Robert Fortune played a key role in spreading tea cultivation to India by secretly transporting plants and techniques from China in the 1800s. 

Globally, more than 3 billion cups of tea are consumed every day, showcasing its popularity across cultures. 

Tea ranks just below water as the world’s most consumed beverage, reflecting its universal appeal. 

India’s Assam region is a powerhouse in the tea industry, making a major contribution to the country’s overall tea production. 

Tea bags came into existence by accident in the early 20th century when a U.S. merchant sent samples in silk sachets, which customers unknowingly steeped in water. 

China, India, Kenya, and Sri Lanka consistently rank among the top producers of tea on the global stage. 

The history of tea includes tales of espionage, innovation, and cultural exchange that shaped its journey into becoming a global commodity.