The Origins and Culture of Tea in Asian Communities

By: Aditya Ambarisha

Tea. The three-letter word conjures something different for Asian populations across the world. For South Asians, it may be an image of their grandparents sitting on the veranda, sipping a steaming cup of chai in the evenings. For the Japanese, it may be conducting a traditional tea ceremony, chanoyu, for special occasions. Despite these differences, there is no questioning the fact that tea is central to the lifestyles of numerous Asian populations, serving as a pillar of the community. In lieu, it is often fascinating to discover the origins of tea worldwide, along with the cultural influences on brewing the perfect cup.

Origins of Tea

The history of tea goes back thousands of years, originating in China around 2737 BCE. According to an oft-repeated legend, the mythological Emperor Shennong discovered tea by accident when tea leaves were dropped into his boiling water. True or not, the implications of this discovery were tangible. Over the ensuing centuries, traders carried tea throughout Asia, influencing their locales tremendously. Japanese Buddhist monks that interacted heavily with Chinese elites introduced the new beverage to their residents, and Korean dignitaries became steadfast supporters of the drink. Despite the early discovery of the drink, many nations, especially those in Southern Asia, only consumed the beverage in large quantities hundreds, if not thousands, of years thereafter. 

Rise in Popularity (c. 19th century)

Although tea was originally found within Asia, European powers soon found interest in the beverage. Fascinated by the flavorful and aromatic drink, the colonial forces that established presences in Asia commonly began to associate themselves with the drink— particularly in India. The British East India Company began widespread production of tea in the northeastern region of Assam in the early nineteenth century. The first tea crops grown there were a variety which was traditionally brewed by the Singpho people, commonly said to be inspired by Chinese brewing methods. In 1826, the East India Company assumed control of the region in the Treaty of Yandabo, giving them unfiltered access to tea production in the region. Over time, popularity rose as British and Indian elites purchased large quantities of the drink. By 1900, one hundred and thirteen tea plantations were established in the city of Darjeeling, covering 18,888 acres and producing 3.9 million pounds of tea. Advertising campaigns like the India Tea Board soon followed and became widely acclaimed. 

This phenomena, however, was not solely confined to tea production in India. Regarding tea’s long history in Vietnam, massive production began in the 1880s when French colonists established the first tea plantations in the area around Pho Tho, northwest of Hanoi. Within 50 years of the initial plantations, Vietnam became an important exporter of tea to Europe and Africa, with research centers being established to promote the study of tea production.

A Symbol of Connection

In nearly every Asian culture, the act of serving tea is a symbolic gesture of respect and hospitality. In ceremonial and social events, tea forges social bonds and gives a moment of peace amidst the busy days. In nations such as Korea, teahouses are sites of quiet contemplation and social harmony, where the focus lies on mindfulness in every sip. In Thailand, khruang chas are performed to honor respected guests in corporate and informal settings, central to many business interactions. 

Health Benefits of Tea

Tea is well known to possess beneficial properties, and most Asian traditional medicines include tea leaves as a healing ingredient. Green tea supports digestion, contains antioxidants, enhances metabolism, and guards against heart disease. Additionally, herbal teas such as ginger, turmeric, and ginseng are used in traditional Chinese and Korean medicine to strengthen immunity and improve blood circulation. Oolong tea also combines the strengths of green and black tea, offering a balanced caffeine boost and promoting relaxation. Pu-erh tea, a fermented Chinese tea, is reported to lower cholesterol and support digestive health.

The Development of Tea Culture

While tea has rich historical roots, it is also very much alive in today's world. Tea shops and cafes nowadays cater to various types of customers. They offer traditional teas as well as newer renditions like bubble tea and tea lattes. As tea culture evolves, preserving traditional tea ceremonies and practices remains crucial to our communities. Festivals, teahouses and cultural organizations are involved in conveying knowledge to the younger generation so that tea can remain a part of cultural identity.

From its ancient origins to today's advancements, tea remains a symbol of history, hospitality, and wellness in AANHPI communities. After all, how would our childhoods be complete without a comforting sip of chai, gyukuro, or another type of tea?