Can you imagine a day without sipping on a cup of hot tea? Chai, tea, Cha, whatever the name, the connection we share with this drink, irrespective of our cultural differences, is amazing. Tea is not a modern-day invention! In fact, you will be surprised to know that its history dates back to 2737 B.C.E, making it one of the oldest creations still in use. Today, many new types of tea are available across the world, with the soul of the drink still kept intact!

What is Tea?

Tea is a flavour-packed, aromatic drink prepared by infusing or boiling Camellia Sinensis leaves in hot water or milk. The popularity of tea is widespread globally and even has the reputation of being the second most-consumed drink after water!

History of Tea:

In the earlier times, Green tea prepared from fresh leaves was the only known method of consuming tea. There is also a legendary tale of how a Chinese Emperor, Shen Nung, accidentally discovered tea when a few leaves from the Camellia Sinensis tree blew into his pot of boiling water. The pleasant scent and warmth of this drink filled the king with renewed energy, much to his surprise!

From the tables of elite families of China to roadside stalls in India, the journey of tea is incredible!

Read along to learn more about the many types of tea and the best tea varieties with pictures and interesting details.

Basic Categories of Tea:

Before the invention of many tea types, there were just one or two known forms of tea – Green and black, prepared with fresh and fermented leaves, respectively. Today, more than 30 varieties of tea are available in different countries, each of which boasts of a unique aroma, flavour, and health benefits.

Here are the three basic categories of Tea which we must know about:

• Basic or True Teas:

Teas made from the Camellia Sinensis plant without any additions or mixtures are called basic teas or true teas. These teas begin their life after the harvesting stage but undergo different ‘processing’ types like withering, oxidation, firing etc., to lend color and character to the leaves.