A close-up of various loose tea leaves and dried herbal blends in wooden spoons, arranged on a rustic wooden surface. The assortment includes black tea, green tea, and vibrant dried flower petals, showcasing the natural diversity of tea used in traditiona

The Historical Use of Tea in Medicine: A Journey Through Time

Written by: Camille Liu

March 2, 2025

Time to read 5 min

Introduction

Tea is one of the most ancient beverages, deeply intertwined with human history and culture. But beyond being a refreshing drink, tea has long been recognized for its medicinal properties.

Many ancient civilizations used tea as a remedy for various ailments, and its role in traditional medicine remains significant today. In this article, we will explore the historical use of tea in medicine and answer some intriguing questions: was tea used in medicine historically, where did tea come from, and who invented tea?

The Origin of Tea: A Look into Its Roots

Tea is believed to have originated in China over 5,000 years ago. The answer to where was tea invented is commonly traced back to the legend of Emperor Shen Nong. Shen Nong, often credited as the founder of tea, was a mythical Chinese ruler known for his contributions to agriculture and medicine. According to legend, around 2737 BCE, he discovered tea when tea leaves accidentally fell into boiling water. The emperor, a keen herbalist, found the infused water refreshing and invigorating. This event marks the origin of tea as both a beverage and a medicinal remedy.

While the Shen Nong story is widely shared, archaeological evidence suggests that tea cultivation began during the Shang Dynasty (1600–1046 BCE). Ancient tea remains found in tombs indicate that tea was consumed not just as a beverage but also as a healing potion. Some historical records show that tea leaves were chewed raw before the practice of brewing them in hot water became commonplace.

A traditional tea ceremony setup on a rustic wooden table, featuring a steaming teapot, three teacups filled with golden tea, and an elegant parchment with Chinese calligraphy. A vase with dried flowers adds to the serene and cultural ambiance.

How Was Tea Discovered and Why Was Tea Invented?

If we ask, how was tea discovered, the answer lies in both mythology and ancient texts. Chinese medicinal records from the Tang Dynasty (618–907 CE) document tea's usage in treating digestive issues, improving mental clarity, and even detoxifying the body. Tea wasn’t so much "invented" as it was discovered and gradually cultivated for its health benefits.

As for why was tea invented, early civilizations recognized tea’s natural properties, such as its ability to enhance digestion, reduce fatigue, and serve as an antidote to toxins. Over time, tea drinking evolved from a medicinal practice to a daily cultural tradition. By the time of the Han Dynasty (206 BCE–220 CE), tea was officially classified as a medicinal herb in Chinese pharmacopeias.

A traditional Chinese tea ceremony setting with a beautifully crafted teapot and multiple teacups on a wooden tray. Steam elegantly rises from the tea, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The dark background features delicate floral artwork, enhancing the cultural and aesthetic appeal.

Historical Use of Tea in Medicine

The question was tea used in medicine historically has a definitive answer—yes! Tea has been used in traditional medicine for thousands of years, particularly in China, India, and Japan. Here’s how different regions have historically utilized tea for medicinal purposes:

1. Ancient China: The Birthplace of Medicinal Tea

China, the country that invented tea, has the longest recorded history of tea use in medicine. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) incorporates various types of tea to treat ailments. Some common applications include:

Green tea for detoxification and improving brain function.
Oolong tea for aiding digestion and weight management.
Pu-erh tea for reducing cholesterol and improving heart health.
White tea for boosting immunity and maintaining youthful skin.

Two traditional Chinese teacups filled with amber-colored tea, placed on an elegant wooden tea tray with intricate carvings. The setup rests on a rustic wooden surface, creating a serene and cultural tea-drinking atmosphere.

During the Tang and Song Dynasties, tea was prescribed to boost energy levels, alleviate headaches, and strengthen the immune system. In fact, the famous medicinal text Ben Cao Gang Mu by Li Shizhen (16th century) describes tea as a powerful remedy. Buddhist monks also used tea to sustain long meditation sessions, recognizing its role in enhancing focus and endurance.

2. India and Ayurvedic Medicine

In India, where herbal infusions were a staple in historical tea traditions, Ayurvedic medicine has long incorporated tea leaves for their healing properties. Traditional Indian remedies use tea blends infused with spices like ginger, turmeric, and cardamom to boost immunity and aid digestion.

One of the most famous medicinal teas from India is chai, a combination of black tea, cloves, cinnamon, and pepper, used to improve circulation and respiratory health. Some early Indian texts mention tea as an energizing tonic used by monks and warriors alike.

3. Japan: The Influence of Zen Buddhism

In Japan, tea’s role in medicine was reinforced by Zen Buddhist monks who traveled to China and brought tea culture back home. Matcha, a powdered green tea, became an essential part of meditation practices due to its calming yet alertness-enhancing effects. Japanese monks recognized tea’s ability to aid concentration and overall well-being.

Samurai warriors also adopted tea drinking, believing it improved mental clarity before battle. Even today, matcha is valued for its high antioxidant content, which supports cardiovascular health and cognitive function.

A beautifully arranged traditional Chinese tea set on a rustic wooden table, featuring a blue and white porcelain teapot with matching teacups filled with golden tea. A delicate branch with dried buds adds to the serene and elegant tea-drinking atmosphere.

A traditional Chinese tea ceremony setup on a rustic wooden table, featuring an elegant teapot and an array of small teacups filled with different shades of tea. The arrangement showcases the artistry of tea brewing and tasting, creating a serene and cultural ambiance.

4. The Middle East and Europe: Tea as a Cure-All

By the 16th century, tea had traveled beyond Asia, reaching the Middle East and Europe. Early European traders recognized the potential health benefits of tea, promoting it as a cure-all for digestive issues, fatigue, and infections. It became a fashionable and medicinally significant beverage in Britain by the 17th century.

In Persia, herbal teas mixed with dried rose petals and saffron were used to soothe sore throats and digestive discomfort. Similarly, in England, early tea merchants marketed tea as a remedy for headaches and melancholia.

Where Does Tea Originate From and Where Is Tea From Today?

For those wondering, where does tea originate from and where is tea from today, the answer remains China. However, tea cultivation quickly spread to India, Japan, Sri Lanka, and beyond. Tea originated from which country? The undisputed answer is China, though different regions have since developed their own tea traditions.

Today, the largest tea-producing countries include China, India, Kenya, and Sri Lanka. Each region has cultivated unique processing methods that influence the taste, aroma, and medicinal value of their teas.

A traditional Chinese tea setup on a rustic wooden table, featuring antique teapots, teacups filled with golden tea, loose tea leaves on a porcelain dish, and an open book with Chinese calligraphy. The scene evokes a historical and cultural appreciation of tea.

The History of Tea Drinking and Its Evolution

The history of tea drinking has evolved significantly. Initially, tea was consumed mainly for its medicinal properties. Over time, tea drinking became a cultural and social activity, with elaborate tea ceremonies emerging in China and Japan. By the 18th and 19th centuries, tea had become a staple in Western households, particularly in Britain, where afternoon tea became a cherished tradition.

A beautifully arranged traditional Chinese tea set on a wooden tray, featuring three steaming blue-and-white porcelain teacups filled with amber tea and an elegant clay teapot in the background. The warm ambiance highlights the cultural significance of tea ceremonies.

A traditional Chinese tea setting by a window, featuring an elegant blue-and-white porcelain teapot and a matching teacup filled with golden tea. The background showcases a serene courtyard with blooming red flowers, enhancing the peaceful and cultural ambiance.

Conclusion: Tea’s Enduring Legacy in Medicine

Tea has come a long way from its origins as a medicinal herb to becoming one of the most consumed beverages in the world. Whether looking at its discovery in ancient China or its spread across continents, tea’s health benefits continue to be recognized in modern science. The next time you sip a cup of tea, remember its rich history and powerful medicinal legacy.

With its deep roots in traditional medicine, tea remains a timeless remedy for the body and mind. From where did tea originally come from to who created tea, the story of tea is a testament to human curiosity, health, and culture. As research continues, scientists are uncovering even more ways in which tea can contribute to long-term wellness, proving that this ancient elixir still holds remarkable value today.