White Tea, one of the six major types of Chinese Tea, is favored for its silvery-white hairs on the buds and leaves, bright infusion color, and rich nutritional content. However, have you ever wondered why it's called White Tea? There's a fascinating history and cultural significance behind this seemingly simple name.
The Origin of the Name “White Tea”
The name white tea comes from both the type of tea plant used and the appearance of the dried tea. A defining feature of white tea is the fine layer of white hairs covering the leaves. These hairs remain after drying, giving the tea a silver or ashen white color, hence the name “white tea”.
The Historical Background of White Tea
The origins of white tea can be traced back to the Tang Dynasty. The classic text “The Classic of Tea” by Lu Yu during the Tang Dynasty contains records about white tea. At that time, white tea was considered a high-quality tea and was favored by the imperial court.
In the Song Dynasty, white tea gained even greater prominence. The famous writer Su Shi praised white tea as “the best drink in the world,” leaving behind the famous lines: “To know the causes of past lives, plant white tea in this life.”
Since the Ming and Qing dynasties, the cultivation and processing techniques of white tea have continuously improved, resulting in increasingly superior quality. It has gradually become a treasured tea in China.
The Cultural Significance of White Tea
White tea is not just a type of tea; it is also a cultural symbol. It represents elegance, purity, and nobility, embodying people's aspirations for a better life.
In ancient times, white tea was often used as a tribute, symbolizing loyalty and respect. Additionally, it was regarded as an auspicious item and commonly used in celebratory occasions such as weddings and birthdays.
With its unique color, long history, rich cultural significance, and distinctive charm, white tea is an indispensable part of Chinese tea culture. Enjoying a cup of white tea is not only a delight for the palate but also a purification of the soul.