Tea drinking

The European tea wares, though not as culturally profound as the Chinese ones, surpass them in design and decoration. The exquisite silver tea wares of Europe are a prime example in this regard. Today, we share with you content from Chapter Five of Yu Yue's book, Tea Fun in Various Colours: The Dissemination of Chinese Tea Abroad and Foreign Tea Affairs (published by Guangming Daily Press in August 1999). In the 17th century, the upper echelons of European society used porcelain teapots for tea drinking. Soon after, silversmiths created pure silver teapots and teaspoons. From 1755 to 1760, they began crafting silver-plated teapots with high artistic value. The early British silver teapots were most distinctive in the 18th century and were exported to American colonies in large numbers. Due to the preciousness of tea at the time, early silver teapots were mostly small. Some were lamp-shaped, some pear-shaped, with the lamp shape being the earliest, starting production in 1670. Pear-shaped silver teapots first appeared during Queen Anne's reign and remained popular through the ages. The first pear-shaped teapot in America was created by Boston's Cony, which is considered the oldest teapot on the continent. During King George I's reign, Lin…

Famous mountains in the world are known for producing miraculous herbs. When discussing tea, ancient people would always start with Mount Mengding. The city of Ya'an is renowned as the source of world tea culture, and Mount Mengding, with its millennium-old history of tribute teas. Visiting Mount Mengding is not just about asking questions about tea, nor merely a pilgrimage or a search for roots, but rather a veneration of the sacred tea and a spiritual refuge deep within one's faith. The story of the world's first tea leaf unfolds gently on Mount Mengding... 1. Mountains Receiving Heavenly Rain, Tea Blessing Mankind China is the birthplace of tea, Sichuan is where tea was nurtured, and Ya'an is the cradle of world tea culture. In Ya'an, the "Rain City," there is a feng shui treasure spot that ancient astronomer Yuan Tian Gang called "the cycle of heaven, the great gathering of water and qi." This place, revered by tea lovers worldwide as the "Holy Mountain of World Tea Culture," is Mount Mengding. Upon entering Mount Mengding, one feels a sense of pilgrimage, much like Buddhists visiting Lumbini or scholars going to Qufu. Just as Lumbini is associated with the Buddha and…

The air is crisp and dry in autumn, a season when lungs are particularly vulnerable. Drinking tea properly at this time can help alleviate the dryness of the season and moisturize the lungs. A "weather map" has been developed for tea drinking, offering guidance tailored to different individuals based on the unique properties of various teas. Green Tea Green tea is unfermented. Teas like Longjing, Biluochun, and Sparrow's Tongue all belong to this category. Characteristics: Clear green liquor and leaves. Green tea is commonly believed to have effects such as lowering blood lipids, reducing blood pressure, and aiding weight loss. Regular smokers may benefit from drinking green tea, which can mitigate the harmful effects of nicotine. White Tea White tea is a slightly fermented tea. Pai Mu Tan (White Peony), Gongmei (Tribute Eyebrow), and Bai Hao Yinzhen (Silver Needle) are all examples of white tea. There is a folk saying that white tea is "a year's tea, three years' medicine, and seven years' treasure." White tea possesses excellent health benefits. In addition to the common nutrients found in other teas, it contains essential active enzymes. Medical studies have shown that regular consumption of white tea can significantly increase the activity…

Auction houses see Zisha teapots sold for millions, deterring many ordinary people. Is Zisha collecting just a game for the rich? You might be overthinking it… While making teapots is an art, most of us buy them for practical use! So, as an ordinary person, how can you enjoy a Zisha teapot? Get a Basic Understanding If this is your first encounter with Zisha teapots and you haven't established your own aesthetic system yet, you should start by learning how to inspect the basic craftsmanship of a teapot. Before buying a teapot, consider purchasing 2-3 practical books on Zisha to read carefully. Books usually introduce the basics of Zisha, reference standards, aesthetic criteria, and appraisals. Read widely, listen attentively, and ask questions. For things you don’t understand, seek advice from experienced friends. Once you have a basic understanding of Zisha, you can then find purchase targets based on your financial capability and plan. Clarify Your Purpose When buying a teapot, clarify your purpose. Are you buying it for tea drinking and personal cultivation, or for collection or investment? This is important. If it's for personal tea drinking, you'll have higher requirements for the teapot’s tea compatibility and practicality. Conditions like…

People generally believe that the freshest tea has the best taste, and when new teas come on the market, some can't resist the temptation to rush out and buy teas harvested before the Ming Festival or the Rain Festival. However, according to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) experts, the view that "teas are better the fresher they are" is a misunderstanding. Fresh Teas Should Not Be Greedily Consumed Dr. Xiang Wei, director of the Spleen and Stomach Diseases Department at Zunyi Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, explained that according to TCM theory, which advocates "nourishing yang in spring and summer," drinking tea regularly at this time not only helps to dispel the cold accumulated in the body over winter but also promotes the growth of yang energy. Additionally, it can help refresh the mind, relieve drowsiness, and uplift the spirit. However, not all types of tea are better the fresher they are, as Pu'er tea and dark tea improve with age. Those who seek freshness should choose green tea, but even then, there's no need to drink it immediately after it's picked. The allure of fresh tea is hard for many to resist, yet the freshest tea doesn't necessarily have the best…

Chinese tea culture is the culture of tea production and consumption in China. China is the birthplace of tea, and it is said that Chinese people began to discover and utilize tea during the time of the legendary Shennong, which is no less than 4,700 years ago. To this day, among the Han people, there is a custom of using tea as a gift, and there are unique tea-drinking characteristics in places like Yunnan. As one of the seven daily necessities (firewood, rice, oil, salt, soy sauce, vinegar, and tea), drinking tea was very common in ancient China. Drinking tea can prolong life, beautify the body, and maintain health. So what components are in tea? And what benefits do they provide? Tea polyphenols are the most abundant soluble components in tea and are the primary substances responsible for its health and wellness benefits. The most typical representative is catechin (polyphenol), which has multiple effects including antioxidant (elimination of oxygen free radicals), reduction of the risk of cardiovascular disease, lowering of blood lipids, reduction of body fat formation, and modification of gut microbiota ecology. 1. Tea can reduce the risk and mortality of cardiovascular diseases According to research reports, Japanese researchers…

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there are over 300 million patients worldwide, across all age groups. Depression is different from normal mood fluctuations and brief emotional reactions that arise when dealing with daily life challenges. In recent years, many studies have found that regular tea drinking can improve or alleviate mood. This has led many researchers to delve into the mechanisms of how tea can combat depression. Can tea drinking improve or alleviate mood? Theoretical research offers some insights. Studies have found that L-theanine has neuroprotective effects on mental disorders such as anxiety, panic, depression, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. L-theanine is the highest free amino acid in tea plants. At the Second China Tea Industry T20 Summit and China Tea Industry Innovation Model High-level Forum, Academician Liu Zhonghua of the Chinese Academy of Engineering interpreted research findings related to "Theanine Improving Depressive Behaviors in Chronically Stressed Rats." The Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) showed that if adolescent males exhibit a cluster of depressive symptoms and elevated cortisol levels, their risk of developing depression later in life is 14 times higher than average. Elevated cortisol can cause more stress and inflammation, leading to further cortisol release. Over…

Tea drinking requires utensils. The Western Han Dynasty's literary work, Zhuangyue, mentions "preparing tea and all its implements, covering them after the feast," which is the earliest reference to "tea utensils" in Chinese history. Historically, goldware, woodenware, pottery, weapons, ceremonial objects, and wine vessels were all referred to as "utensils." Tea utensils are no exception. The beauty of these objects complements the tea infusion, preserves its aroma, and each type of tea utensil has a unique beauty and practical use. Firewood, rice, oil, salt, soy sauce, vinegar, and tea are essential for daily life in China. There is also the saying that "tea is the cure for all diseases" and "without tea one day, digestion is sluggish; without tea for three days, illness ensues." Today, drinking tea is not only a healthy lifestyle but also a pursuit of spiritual elevation. So, what should be included on the tea table of a true tea lover? 01 Purple Clay Teapot Sixyi Hall Reduction-fired Ziyan Shibo Teapot The purple clay teapot is considered the premier tea utensil, ideal for brewing tea. Firstly, purple clay contains natural iron beneficial to health, and long-term use of a purple clay teapot avoids the intake of harmful…

A set of exquisite tea wares paired with a good tea that is full of color, aroma, and taste can be said to complement each other perfectly. Since ancient times, one of the important manifestations of people's attention to the art of tea drinking has been their emphasis on the artistry of the tea ware itself. Therefore, to drink good tea, one cannot do without the corresponding tea wares. Ceramic Tea Wares The clay used for ceramics is fine, and the firing temperature is high; the body is relatively thin, and when struck it produces a crisp sound. Because the surface of ceramic wares is smooth and dense, they do not absorb water or flavor. Moreover, ceramic tea wares conduct heat quickly and do not absorb aroma, so they can fully express the character of the tea, producing a fragrant and fresh taste when brewing tea. Due to these characteristics, ceramic tea wares are particularly suitable for brewing teas with a light and uplifting style. Suitable for brewing: Teas made from tender leaves such as green tea, floral-scented black teas, and lightly fragranced oolong teas like Tieguanyin, new white teas like Baihao Yinzhen, etc. Earthenware Tea Wares The clay used…

Tea, as a traditional Chinese beverage, carries millennia of culture and wisdom. It is more than just a drink; it's a way of life and a pursuit of health and tranquility. However, while enjoying the delightful flavors of tea, we may unwittingly fall into common misconceptions. Today, let's uncover these misconceptions to make your tea drinking experience healthier and more enjoyable. I. Tea Is Not Indefinitely Storable In many people's minds, as long as tea remains dry and doesn't mold, it can be stored indefinitely. This is a serious misunderstanding. As a food product, tea has a clear shelf life, which varies depending on its type and processing method. For example, green tea typically has a shorter shelf life of around one year, while black tea and Pu'er tea, which undergo special processing, have longer shelf lives. The storage conditions are crucial. If not stored properly, tea can become damp, leading to increased moisture content and the growth of mold and bacteria. Exposure to direct sunlight can cause the loss of nutrients and aroma. Additionally, exposure to odors can affect the quality of the tea. To ensure the quality and taste of tea, it should be stored in a dry,…

The morning is quiet and peaceful, with nothing to do. The small cluster of wisteria in the courtyard is in full bloom, its lilac and white flowers hanging down in clusters, a delightful sight for the eyes. Soon, the water in the kettle begins to boil, bubbling up into clouds of white steam. The morning sun is still gentle, and a light breeze blows, causing the copper coin plants in the water jar to sway gently—a truly comfortable and pleasant moment. To those who love tea, it is a wonderful thing. Meeting through tea and bonding over it is an indescribably beautiful experience. A sip of the tea broth, its fragrance lingering, brings clarity to the mind, and every moment spent with tea is always so beautiful. Hence, there is the saying of "ichi-go ichi-e" (one time, one meeting) in tea drinking. In this life, when you encounter a cup of tea or meet someone, whether the connection is long or short, it is unique, and should be cherished. Those who love tea often talk about their love for it—loving to drink tea, loving to brew tea, and loving to store tea. Tea deserves love not only because of its…

Chinese dark tea (China dark teas, CDTs), one of the six major types of tea, has a drinking history spanning nearly a thousand years. It is a unique type of tea in China and belongs to the post-fermentation category. Dark teas are typically made from coarse and aged raw materials, resulting in large leaves with long stems. The manufacturing process often involves prolonged heap fermentation, which gives the leaves a predominantly dark brown, oily black, or brownish-green color, and the liquor a deep red or reddish-brown hue. The unique pile-fermentation process creates its distinctive aged fragrance quality. The processing of dark tea can be divided into two types: one involves withering, rolling, pile-fermentation, and initial drying, followed by sifting, steaming, and compression into shape; the other directly uses dark tea or sun-dried green tea as raw materials for pile-fermentation and color development, after which it undergoes sifting and steaming for compression. The classification and quality characteristics of different types of dark tea were summarized in previous articles, which can be found in past posts titled “Origins, Varieties, and Characteristics of Dark Tea” and “Studies on Quality Differences Among Different Types of Chinese Dark Tea.” I. Functional Components of Dark Tea…

Long-term and moderate tea drinking offers many health benefits. With a wide variety of teas, each type has different effects on the human body. Therefore, those who drink tea for health can choose the appropriate type of tea based on its properties and their own needs. The pace of modern life is accelerating, and people are under increasing stress from both life and work. Staying up late, getting angry, and feeling frustrated are common occurrences that gradually take a toll on the liver. Spring is the best season to nurture the liver, and the following types of tea are suitable for consumption during this period to protect the liver: 1. Green Tea Green tea is an unfermented tea that retains the natural color and nutritional components of the leaves. Rich in antioxidants such as polyphenols, catechins, and vitamin C, green tea can eliminate free radicals, lower blood lipids, combat fatigue, and improve the liver’s detoxification capacity. Common varieties of green tea include Longjing, Biluochun, and Huangshan Maofeng. 2. Chrysanthemum Tea Chrysanthemum tea is made from dried chrysanthemums. It can clear heat and toxins, calm the liver, and improve vision. It has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and blood pressure-lowering properties. Common chrysanthemum varieties…

Seniors drinking tea can have a certain preventive and therapeutic effect on hypertension, coronary heart disease, and other cardiovascular diseases. This is because the tea polyphenols and vitamin C in tea leaves have the effects of promoting blood circulation, dissolving blood stasis, and preventing arterial hardening. Therefore, seniors who regularly drink tea tend to have lower incidences of hypertension and coronary heart disease. Tea Drinking Benefits the Brain for Seniors Many seniors enjoy drinking tea. Researchers at the University of California selected over 7,000 participants for several studies to analyze the impact of tea drinking on memory and mental alertness. The research confirmed that it has significant benefits for the brain. The researchers recorded the frequency of tea or coffee consumption by the participants and conducted memory tests. Ten years later, when tested again, it was found that those who frequently drank tea had better memory retention as they entered old age. These research findings were published in the Journal of Nutrition Research. In one study involving nearly 1,500 participants from Singapore, the results showed that those who drank more than four cups of tea per day had a 75% lower chance of experiencing memory decline. Even drinking one to…

Black tea is commonly brewed in a gaiwan, which allows for good control over the flavor of the tea. However, black tea can also be directly brewed in a cup. When doing so, be careful not to use too much tea; for a 200ml cup, about 2 grams of tea leaves are sufficient, and the brewing time should be around two minutes before drinking. What Kind of Cup Can Be Used to Brew Black Tea? To brew black tea, suitable teaware includes transparent glass cups, aroma-trapping cups, travel cups, and thermoses, primarily based on personal preference and the situation. For example, glass cups and aroma-trapping cups are suitable for office or everyday tea drinking, while travel cups and thermoses are ideal for travel or winter tea drinking. Under normal circumstances, a gaiwan can be used to brew black tea, paying attention to the amount of tea, water temperature, and infusion time. The Steps for Brewing Black Tea: 1. Use pure mountain spring water or mineral water. 2. Prepare white porcelain or heat-resistant glass teaware and clean it thoroughly. 3. Place the tea in the cup at a ratio of 1:50, with 3-5 grams being optimal. 4. Begin brewing; the water…

Behind every good cup of tea, there is a meticulous attention to detail in every step of the process, from growing the tea plants, harvesting the leaves, to brewing the tea. Expensive tea isn’t necessarily good or suitable for you. Many tea enthusiasts share this feeling: once you fall in love with tea and start drinking it regularly, it becomes hard to give up. Sometimes it’s hard to put into words exactly why, but you just like the feeling. When you come across a great cup of tea, it has a rich and full-bodied broth with a subtle aged fragrance. It may taste slightly bitter at first, but then a gentle sweetness lingers on the palate, leaving an aftertaste that’s both refreshing and intriguing. Tea comes in many different forms; each mountain range, each type of tree, produces its own unique flavor. Even within the same village, differences in picking methods, the timing and heat used in stir-frying and sun-drying can result in markedly different flavors. Even when the tea comes from the same mountain, different tea makers will produce vastly different results. Fame doesn’t guarantee quality; good tea must be crafted by skilled tea masters. Everyone’s taste buds are…

In the scorching summer heat, milk tea shops that use various famous Chinese teas to create thirst-quenching drinks can be found on every street corner. The lingering aftertaste of these refreshing beverages is enchanting. When it comes to drinking tea, it's a Chinese invention that has benefited all of humanity. From the tea-chewing practices of ancient Chinese ancestors to the tea porridge of the Shang and Zhou dynasties, from the tea brewing methods of the Tang Dynasty to the tea whisking of the Song Dynasty, and from the infusion practices of the Ming Dynasty that have continued to this day, no other beverage has permeated Chinese history as deeply as tea, which is also widely embraced around the world. The "Elixir" Developed by the Ba-Shu People "Tea is a fine tree of the southern regions." This is the opening sentence of the world's earliest known treatise on tea, The Classic of Tea, written by Lu Yu of the Tang Dynasty. Wild tea trees originated in the southwestern region of Ba-Shu (modern-day Sichuan and Chongqing), with a history dating back over ten thousand years. When the ancestors of the Ba-Shu people wandered through dense primeval forests, they encountered these magical leaves.…

Drinking tea is an ancient and popular beverage practice that is not only a cultural symbol but also favored for its numerous health benefits. From psychological to physiological, tea has broad and positive effects on the body. Let’s delve into these benefits in more detail.I. The Benefits of Drinking Tea 1. Impact on Mental Health Relief from Anxiety and Stress: Amino acids and polyphenols in tea can help alleviate tension and anxiety, improving mood. Stimulation and Focus: The caffeine in tea can enhance alertness, improve focus and cognitive agility, aiding productivity. Relaxation and Tranquility: Brewing a cup of tea and savoring its aroma and taste is a relaxing process that helps regulate emotions and brings peace and calm. 2. Health Benefits for the Body Antioxidants and Immune Boost: Polyphenols and vitamin C in tea have powerful antioxidant effects, helping to eliminate free radicals and strengthen the immune system. Digestive Aid: Some teas like oolong and black tea can promote intestinal motility, improve digestion, and relieve stomach discomfort. Cardiovascular Health: Drinking tea is associated with lowering blood pressure and improving lipid profiles, supporting cardiovascular health. Aiding Weight Loss: Caffeine and polyphenols in tea can accelerate metabolism and promote fat breakdown, contributing…

Enjoying tea is not only a lifestyle and a cultural practice but also beneficial for health and well-being. However, there are certain guidelines to follow when drinking tea. It should be suitable for one’s constitution and avoid common pitfalls. The hormonal balance and metabolic rate vary significantly among women of different age groups. Choosing the right tea blend according to one's age ensures that it does not harm the body or disrupt metabolism, maintaining overall health. How should women of different age groups choose their tea? Women Aged 20-25: Vigorous Circulation, Focus on Detoxification Most women in this age group are students or office workers. Although they have a high metabolic rate, their limited physical activity due to work and lifestyle can lead to weight gain. To slim down through tea, the focus should be on detoxification, cleansing the intestines, breaking down fat, and reducing the concentration of fat particles in the blood. Recommended Tea: Chrysanthemum and Cassia Seed Tea Chrysanthemum tea cools the blood and reduces internal heat, while also decreasing blood viscosity and accelerating blood circulation. Cassia seed is a Chinese herb known for its ability to improve vision, soothe the liver, and promote bowel movements. When combined…

More and more friends are now fond of purple clay teapots. With the development of the economy, we are also rediscovering our cultural confidence, and the purple clay teapot represents a traditional Chinese way of life. So, once you have a purple clay teapot, what would be good to pair it with? Purple clay teapots are, of course, for tea drinking. When you start to drink tea, beyond just tasting, there is more to enjoy in terms of spiritual and aesthetic pleasure. When drinking tea, pairing your purple clay teapot with the following items can further enhance your inner joy and delight: Wood-leaf Tea Bowl A teapot and a tea bowl, like a full moon and clear breeze. Many say that the wood-leaf tea bowl is the perfect match for a purple clay teapot. The purple clay teapot is elegant and rustic, showcasing the charm of its shape and lines in its natural color. The wood-leaf tea bowl, under its low-key and tranquil appearance, hides a deep Zen-like quality. The leaf is embedded in the bowl, and when tea is poured in, the change in color is indescribably wonderful. Like two spirits, you feel both the rustic and splendid sensations…

Having worked in the tea industry for a while, one naturally encounters various kinds of tea drinkers or people with many questions about tea. As a result, it's common to be asked questions related to tea. Some of these questions are specific and personal, while others are more general and common. Based on daily experiences, the author has created a list of "eight dos and don'ts" in the style of "dos and don'ts," hoping to inspire further lists of "N dos and N don'ts." 1. Relax and enjoy; don't burden yourself. Often, friends say, "I'm sorry, I don't know much about tea." Whenever I hear such comments, besides feeling apologetic, what I really want to express is that when drinking tea, there's no need to worry about whether you "know" or "don't know" about it. "Knowing" or "not knowing" isn't important; what matters is starting to drink tea. How many people who watch TV "understand" how it works? Does this stop them from watching TV? How many people who use their phones "understand" how they function? Does this affect their usage? How many people can claim extensive knowledge about the food they eat? Not many. The complexity of tea has…

Tea has various benefits such as invigorating the mind, aiding digestion, promoting diuresis, and relieving heat. It is also rich in vitamins which are good for health. Therefore, moderate tea drinking is beneficial to health. However, excessive tea drinking can have some adverse effects on the body, such as causing iron deficiency anemia. Why Does Excessive Tea Drinking Lead to Iron Deficiency Anemia? This is related to the high levels of tannic acid in tea. Iron plays a crucial role in the body's hematopoietic activity. In those who drink too much tea, the large amounts of tannic acid in the tea can form insoluble tannate iron with iron ions and be excreted from the body, leading to increased iron loss and reduced absorption, which can result in iron deficiency anemia. To prevent iron deficiency anemia caused by excessive tea drinking, first, limit your tea intake to no more than 200 grams per month. Second, avoid drinking overly strong tea. Third, eat more iron-rich foods, such as lean meat, animal livers, eggs, and green leafy vegetables. Fourth, adjust your tea-drinking time to avoid drinking strong tea half an hour before meals to reduce the chance of contact between tannic acid in…

Many of my friends enjoy drinking tea and are aware of its benefits for both body and mind. Tea drinking is a leisure activity that combines relaxation and health maintenance. Whether enjoyed alone or shared among a few friends, one can find joy and inner peace in the act of tea drinking. However, while many people love tea, they may not know how to drink it correctly. Unintentionally, improper ways of drinking tea can not only fail to bring health benefits but can also cause harm to the body. Taboo One: Overly Concentrated Tea In Chinese culture, there is a special term for strong tea – “yan.” There is a saying that goes, “The best part comes last,” which is often true for traditional dramas where the main actors perform in the final acts. However, good tea is not necessarily better when it is too strong. In fact, overly strong tea can be detrimental to health. Strong tea contains high levels of caffeine and theobromine, which can be very stimulating. Some people drink strong tea for the intense taste, but what they may not realize is that this intense taste can lead to insomnia, headaches, ringing in the ears, blurred…

       Tea art encompasses the appreciation of techniques for evaluating tea, the artistic approach to brewing, and the enjoyment of a beautiful environment for tea drinking. The process embodies a unity of form and spirit, forming a cultural phenomenon during tea drinking activities. When discussing tea art, one naturally comes to the topic of purple clay tea wares. “Drinking tea” is commonly referred to as consuming tea as a beverage to quench thirst. Yixing purple clay, developed from pottery, is a new type of ceramic. Its origins date back to the Song Dynasty, flourished in the Ming and Qing Dynasties, and continues to be popular today. Tea art involves: selecting tea leaves, choosing water, tea brewing techniques, the art of tea utensils, and the selection and creation of an environment, among other aspects. The background of tea art is an important means of supporting the main theme, enhancing the pure, elegant, and simple nature of tea, and increasing artistic appeal. It has a long history, rich cultural heritage, and deep connections with religion. Different styles of tea art have different background requirements, and only by choosing the right background can one better appreciate the taste of tea. Yixing…