History & Origin of Green Tea

Green tea is not merely a beverage; it is one of humanity's oldest companions. Its story begins more than 5,000 years ago, rooted deeply in ancient civilizations where tea was revered as both nourishment and medicine.

According to legend, green tea was discovered in 2737 BCE by the Chinese Emperor Shen Nong, when tea leaves accidentally fell into boiling water. What followed was not just a drink, but the beginning of a cultural legacy that would span continents and centuries.

In ancient China, green tea quickly became synonymous with discipline, reflection, and wellness. It was consumed by monks to maintain alertness during long meditation sessions and by scholars as a drink that sharpened focus without agitation. Over time, tea cultivation became an art. Carefully controlled harvesting, minimal oxidation, and gentle steaming or pan firing preserved the leaf's natural essence.

By the Tang and Song dynasties, green tea had transformed into a ritual. Tea ceremonies were born, emphasizing precision, respect, and presence. Tea was no longer consumed casually; it was experienced.

From China, green tea traveled to Japan, where Zen Buddhism elevated it further. The Japanese tea ceremony, Chanoyu, embodied harmony, simplicity, and mindfulness. Every movement mattered. Every sip was intentional.

As trade routes expanded, green tea reached Korea, Southeast Asia, and eventually Europe. While black tea dominated Western markets due to shelf stability, green tea retained its prestige in the East as a symbol of purity and refinement.

Today, green tea stands at the intersection of heritage and modern wellness. Science now validates what ancient civilizations instinctively knew. Green tea supports metabolism, cognitive clarity, and long term health.

At Somara, green tea is honored not as a trend, but as a tradition. Every leaf carries centuries of wisdom, discipline, and human connection. When you drink green tea, you are not consuming a product. You are participating in a lineage.