Delicious Brew From A Leaf Tea Scottsdale

By Coleen Torres


The tea leaf is the consumable component of the tea plant, known for its use in making hot beverages. A leaf tea Scottsdale is a popular and healthy beverage which is consumed all over. A long and rich history is associated with the preparation and consumption of tea, and in many parts of the world, it forms an essential part of traditional ceremonies.

The origins of tea are elusive, but is known to have been discovered in China. The most popular legend attributes its discovery to Emperor Shenong in 2737 BC. Japan, due to its close proximity to China and the frequent travel of Buddhist monks between the two countries, was the first country to share in this newly discovered delicacy. It wasn't until the seventeenth century that it was introduced by the English royal family.

Soaking tea leaves in hot or warm water is the most common way to brew tea. Due to high levels of antioxidants and other health benefits, teas in the Han Dynasty were used in religious ceremonies. Also due to the scarcity of the leaves when they were first discovered, only the rich were able to afford to drink tea. However, as more varieties were discovered and grown, brewing tea became a normal household habit internationally.

Tea is so prevalent nowadays that people are even growing the plants on their personal properties. However, it should be noted that tea plants grow and survive best in warm weather or in temperature controlled greenhouses. This is probably why China and India produce and export the most tea internationally, though there are over thirty countries that also produce tea on plantations to export worldwide.

Many varieties are available, all grown from the same plant called Camellia sinensis. Variations are created as a result of varied growth habits such as location or time of picking, or as the result of the methods of processing. The most well-known variations include: black, white, green and oolong. Herbal brews are becoming increasingly popular, but this beverage does not contain leaves from the Camellia sinensis shrub.

Before brewing, the foliage of the plant must be processed. The most popular black tea is processed in five steps. Initially, the leaves are spread out to begin the drying process known as withering. Secondly, the leaves are either rolled or chopped, and depending on weather, the orthodox or CTC method follows. Oxidation follows by spreading the leaves out in a warm, damp area. Drying and sorting are the last step before the crop is ready for commercial distribution.

Everyone is aware about the researched health benefits associated with the tea plant including cancer, heart disease, and diabetes preventions. Flavonoids in tea is probably the cause of these benefits. Researchers also say that the natural caffeine present in tea can also stimulate the brain as well as weight loss.

Tea is the second most widely consumed drink, surpassed only by water. This may be due to the dry crop being widely available. As society becomes increasingly health conscious and more benefits of this plant are revealed, the popularity of this drink only seems to increase.




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