Tea is thought to have first been discovered by Emperor Shen Nung in the mountains of China's far western Sichuan or Yunnan province. It is said he was resting beneath a tree whilst his servant prepared some water on the fire. The wind picked up and blew a leaf from the tree into the water, the Emperor decided to try the liquor, and, after drinking felt revived. The tree was a tea tree and he reputedly went on to discover the medicinal benefits of tea. China is the world's oldest exporter of tea and is renowned for some wonderfully delicate examples.
Around 70% of the tea produced in China is Green although White, Yellow, Oolong, Black and Pu Erh teas are also produced. We have a wide selection of Chinese teas all of the finest quality with many organic varieties. It is in this section that you will discover some of the very finest tea we can find. From the sublime White Peony to the complex Phoenix Oolong we hope you enjoy experiencing the world of tea with us. show me more
EGYPT
Egypt produces some of the world best Chamomile. The flowers thrive in the hot sunny weather and produce a delighful sweet aromatic cup. A member of the aster family, chamomile has daisy-like flowers and is one of the most popular plants in western herbalism. Usually infused as a fragrant hot beverage for relaxation, chamomile may also be used in baths and poultices to sooth and soften the skin. To relieve chest congestion or a stuffy nose, try boiling some a couple of teaspoons of Chamomile and inhaling the vapour. show me more
ENGLAND
Stunning Chocolates made with beautiful Teahouse tea! show me more
INDIA
It was not until 1610 that The Dutch East India Company is formed and establishes trading links with China. And by the 1700’s Britain imported more that 100,000lbs a year and Thomas Twinning opened the first Teahouse in Britain in 1717. There have been very few changes to tea since the 1800’s, however in the UK we have begun to drink less of the medoicre tea bag tea and are moving toward the finer whole leaf Speciality Teas. India is now the worlds biggest exporter of tea, accounting for almost 70%. India specialises in Black Tea with Darjeeling said to be the Champagne amongst tea. show me more
JAPAN
Japan is perhaps most famous for its tea traditions, in particular the Tea Ceremony. Today, ceremonies are still performed in specially designed rooms in private houses, or in tea houses within a private gardens, in designated rooms in the workplace, or in a public tea house. The tradition is very much alive. Tea is taken to relax and take a moment out of a hectic schedule, either alone or with friends. Today, because of its popularity, very little tea is exported from Japan, infact less than 2% of total production is available. show me more
SOUTH AFRICA
South African herbs have made quite an impact in the UK over recent years. Free from caffeine these herbs are full of vitamins and antoxidants. Rooibos or Redbush as it is sometimes known tastes remarkably like tea and can be drunk on its own, with a slice of Lemon or even with milk. It is also packed with antioxidants and is available in several flavoured varieties along with our organic range. Popular with mums-to-be it can also be used to treat cradle cap and nappy rash!! show me more
SRI LANKA
Sri Lanka produces tea throughout the year and the growing areas are mainly concentrated in the central highlands and southern inland areas of the island. Mainly producing Orthodox teas, Sri Lanka is one of the worlds largest exporter of tea. In the orthodox process of production, partially dried green shoots are bruised and twisted by rolling. this allows the oxidation process to begin, which is followed by firing to produce the superb Ceylon Tea. show me more
2010 Organic Misty Green, Long Jing, Xiao Ya & Silver Needle Now In Stock!
