“English” Notes Chapter 1.4 The Story of Tea Class 9 Maharashtra Board

1. Introduction to Tea

• Tea is the most widely consumed beverage in the world after water.
• It is made by brewing the leaves of a plant called Camellia sinensis.
• The tea leaves are dried, cured, and processed before being packed and sold.

2. Tea Plant and Its Growth

• Tea plants grow in tropical and sub-tropical climates.
• They require 100-125 cm of rainfall per year and prefer acidic soil.
• The best tea estates are found on hilly slopes up to 1500 meters because tea plants grow slowly and acquire better flavor at high altitudes.
• The top 1-2 inches of the plant are picked, called flushes.
• Tea plants are pruned to a height of three feet to make plucking easier.

3. Types of Tea Based on Leaf Size

Tea is classified into three types:

1. Assam Tea → Largest leaves
2. China Tea → Smallest leaves
3. Cambod Tea → Medium-sized leaves

4. Tea-Growing Regions in India

India has three major tea-growing regions, each producing a unique flavor:

• Darjeeling (Northeast India) → Light and fragrant tea
• Assam (Far Northeast India) → Strong and bold tea
• Nilgiris (South India) → Smooth and aromatic tea

5. Ingredients in Tea

• Tea contains theanine and caffeine, which give it a refreshing taste and stimulating effect.
• It has no carbohydrates, fat, or protein.

6. Legends About the Discovery of Tea

• Chinese Emperor Shennong accidentally discovered tea when leaves fell into his boiling water. He found the drink refreshing and healing.
• Bodhidharma, a Buddhist monk, used tea leaves to stay awake during meditation. He introduced tea to his disciples in China.

7. How Tea Spread Across the World

• Tea reached Japan, Europe, and England through traders and Buddhist priests.
• In China, Emperor Hui Tsung promoted tea research and tasting tournaments.
• The British introduced tea plantations in India in the 19th century.
• The first Indian tea from Assam was sent to England in 1838.

8. Health Benefits of Tea

• Tea contains antioxidants (flavonoids) that help reduce the risk of cancer and control blood pressure.
• It fights viruses and improves overall health.

9. Tea Culture in Different Countries

• China → Uses small clay teapots and fills cups halfway to symbolize friendship.
• Japan → Uses powdered green tea (matcha) in a tea ceremony.
• Russia → Tea is brewed in samovars (metal kettles).
• Vietnam → Popular for lotus and jasmine tea.
• India → Tea is offered as a sign of hospitality and often prepared with milk, sugar, ginger, or spices.