Tea and Coffee Introduction

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* Tea * Content Tea is an aromatic beverage commonly prepared by pouring hot or boiling water over cured leaves of the tea plant. It has a cooling, slightly bitter, and relaxation flavor that many people enjoy. * Origin and history Tea plants are native to East and South Asia. Tea was first introduced to Portuguese priests and merchants in China during the 16th century, at which time it was termed ‘cha’. In 1750, tea experts travelled from China to the Azores, and planted tea, along with jasmines and mallows, to give it aroma and distinction. Both green and black tea continues to grow in the islands, which are the main suppliers to continental Portugal. In Ireland, tea had become an everyday beverage for all levels of society by the late 19th century. * Health effects Tea contains a large number of potentially bioactive chemicals, including flavonoids, amino acids, vitamins, caffeine and several polysaccharides. In addition, green and black tea may protect against cancer, preventing certain obesity-related cancers, and also cardiovascular disease. * Tea culture Tea ceremonies have arisen in different cultures, such as the Chinese and Japanese tea ceremonies, each of which employ traditional techniques and ritualized protocol of brewing and serving tea for enjoyment in a refined setting. One form of Chinese tea ceremony is the Gongfu tea ceremony, which typically uses small clay teapots and oolong tea. Also, tea is prevalent in most cultures in the Middle East. In Arab, tea is a focal point for social gatherings. In the United States and Canada, 80% of tea is consumed cold. In India, tea is one of the most popular hot beverages. In Burma, tea is consumed not only as hot drinks, but also as sweet tea and green tea. In southwest England, many cafes serve a 'cream tea', consisting of scones, clotted cream, and jam alongside a pot of tea. In
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