Fresh or cured leaves of the East Asian evergreen shrub Camellia sinensis are steeped in hot or boiling water to make tea, a fragrant beverage. The borderlands between northern Myanmar and southwestern China are most likely where the plant first appeared. Although it is uncommon, Camellia taliensis leaves can also be used to produce tea. Tea is the most popular beverage in the world, second only to plain water. There are different kinds of tea; some have astringent, cooling, and slightly bitter flavors, while others have grassy, sweet, nutty, or floral undertones. Tea’s caffeine component is primarily responsible for its stimulating effects on people.
