Black and green tea differ in the way the leaves are processed. The most important step in the production of black tea is that the tea tree leaves are exposed to the fermentation process, that is oxidation with the help of enzymes that are secreted from the leaves, thus gaining their distinct dark brown or black colour. Unlike black tea, green tea is not fermented, so its retains its distinct green colour.

Where does real tea come from?

The origin of tea is shrouded in various legends; it is supposed to come from China or India five millennia ago. Tea came to Europe relatively late, only in the 17th century. It was first accessible only to the court and aristocracy. Tea became an integral part of the English breakfast, substituting beer, thanks to a great tea lover, the wife of King Charles II, Portuguese Infanta Catherine de Braganza.

In the second half of the 17th century, tea first appeared in coffee shops. Soon after tea drinking became an integral part of social life. Employers even established tea breaks. Very popular were tea gardens, where they offered pastries with tea – Tea at Five, which spiced up the time between lunch and dinner. Included with afternoon tea were sandwiches, which got their name from the Earl of Sandwich, who created them.

The basis for all types of tea are tips and leaves of the tea bush (Camellia sinensis Linaeus O. Kuntze). The original tea plant in the botanic sense is only one. Factors that affect the quality and type of teas are climate, position, sea level, soil composition and the processing method.

When we pour boiling water over tea, the process releases phenolic substances, which gives tea its aroma, taste, and caffeine, which works as a stimulant. The most important elements of the phenolic substances are the tannins, which have a calming effect on the digestive tract, catechins, flavones and flavonoids, which act as antioxidants.

Did you know?

• From the moment tea is picked to the moment it is packed, no more than 24 hours should pass because even after 12 hours tea loses two thirds of its taste.
• Teas later had different flavours added – flavoured teas. The oldest and still the most popular flavoured tea is Earl Grey – which dates back to the 1830s.