What’s the history and science of tea?

By Kit Chapman2024-03-26T05:36:00

A cup of miky tea with a teaspoon of salt

Source: © David Pimborough/Shutterstock

Look into the chemistry in your cup of tea, the global origins of its leaves and why you should add salt

An unassuming cup of tea is steeped in local traditions and etiquette around how to prepare and drink it. But, its rich history and preparation define the chemical transformations for your favourite brew. Discover more about the plant Camellia sinensis and how producers process it in different ways to make green, black and oolong tea. Plus, find out why British merchants had to buy tea with silver, why it’s essential to add the milk first and whether Michelle Francl’s – a chemistry professor at Bryn Mawr College in the US – tip to add salt to your cuppa because of its sodium ions will make your brew better.

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