Black Tea

What we know as tea is actually the leaves of the Camellia sinensis, an evergreen shrub that flourishes in tropical and semi-tropical climates. Tradition has it that tea was accidentally discovered by a mythical Chinese emperoro after a leaf fell into a cup of water his servants had boiled for him.

The difference between green and black tea is the amount of processing which the plant’s leaves undergo; tea acquires its dark color as the drying progresses.

Tea is low in caffeine and, indeed, contains just the right amount to perk you up. Modern research suggests that tea has a number of beneficial properties, including the feelings of relaxation and well-being it prompts.

Tea can be drunk hot or cold, plain or with lemon or sugar or both. Black Ceylon tea is one of the most popular blends in the world.

Preparation: Add 1 tsp. black tea per cup to a teapot. Cover with boiling water. Let stand for 3 to 5 minutes then strain into cup.