Herb Collection

Where did tea come from, I wonder?

A bitter, caffeinated drink

From Southeast Asia, Camellia bestows the sacred elixir known as tea to the world. Legend tells of the Chinese emperor, Shennong, who discovered tea over 4700 years ago. His servant brought boiling water containing Camellia leaves unintentionally submerged. As a venerated herbalist, he found the happy accident delicious.

All major teas derive from just two plants: black, green, oolong, yellow, white teas, and more! Tea sparked wars like at the Boston Tea Party — also a global cash crop. Tea represents a staple drink of the American south — brewed, sweetened, and chilled.

Scientific name: Camellia sinensis Tastes: can be sour, sweet, earthy, bitter Uses: tea, energy, antioxidants

Recipe: Hot, black tea

Boil water. Steep black teabag/infuser. 5 minutes, max. Add citrus or honey to taste. Cream to be extra Anglo.

By JMHeatherly