Two cups of brewed black tea placed on a wooden tray with loose tea leaves and a bamboo scoop, set against a warm beige background.

Was Tea Used in Medicine Historically? Unveiling Its Deep-Rooted Medicinal Legacy

Written by: Camille Liu

March 2, 2025

Time to read 9 min

Introduction

Tea has been an integral part of human civilization for thousands of years, cherished not only for its comforting taste but also for its profound health benefits. From ancient China to modern-day wellness practices, tea has played a crucial role in traditional healing methods, making it more than just an ordinary beverage. With its deep roots in Chinese culture, tea has been highly regarded for its ability to promote overall well-being, aid digestion, and even serve as a remedy for various ailments.

But the question remains—was tea used in medicine historically? The answer is not just a simple yes, but a fascinating journey through centuries of cultural traditions, scientific discoveries, and evolving medical applications.

Exploring the medicinal history of tea provides insight into how this natural drink has been embraced across different civilizations for its healing properties. Whether it was consumed by emperors and scholars for vitality or recommended by herbalists for detoxification and disease prevention, tea's medicinal value has stood the test of time.

By delving into its origins, historical applications, and scientific backing, we can gain a deeper appreciation for tea as both a cultural treasure and a source of natural healing. Let’s take a closer look at how tea emerged as a medicinal powerhouse and why it continues to be an essential part of health-conscious lifestyles today.

The History of Tea in China: A Medicinal Beginning

The history of tea in China dates back thousands of years, intertwining with traditional medicine and cultural practices. According to legend, tea was discovered in 2737 BCE by Emperor Shen Nong, a revered herbalist.

It is said that while boiling water, a tea leaf accidentally fell into his pot. He found the infusion refreshing and soon realized its medicinal benefits. This event marked the beginning of the history of Chinese tea and its journey as both a beverage and a healing remedy.

In ancient China, tea was believed to cleanse the body, aid digestion, and promote longevity. Early medical texts from the Tang and Song Dynasties documented tea’s use in treating ailments such as headaches, digestive issues, and fatigue.

Chinese physicians incorporated different types of tea into their medicinal treatments, prescribing them for detoxification, alertness, and even as an antidote for poisons.

Some texts even suggested that tea could help regulate body temperature and improve circulation, which made it an essential part of traditional Chinese medicine.

Two traditional Chinese porcelain teacups filled with golden tea, placed on a wooden tea tray, illuminated by warm ambient lighting.

The First Tea: Where Did Tea Originate?

Many people wonder, where did tea originate? The answer lies in southwestern China, specifically in the Yunnan province. This region is home to the first tea trees, where wild tea plants flourished.

The indigenous people of Yunnan are believed to be the first to cultivate tea and recognize its medicinal benefits. These early tea users did not simply drink tea as a beverage but chewed the fresh leaves for their stimulating and health-boosting effects.

As tea culture spread across China and beyond, different regions developed their own variations of tea production and medical applications.

The use of tea in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) evolved to include various herbal blends, some of which are still consumed today for their therapeutic effects. Many herbal medicine practitioners mixed tea with other medicinal herbs to create powerful concoctions for treating various ailments.

A traditional Chinese tea set with a ceramic teapot and four matching teacups on a rustic wooden table, accompanied by a vase with dried branches, creating a serene and timeless tea ceremony ambiance.

Two traditional Chinese porcelain teacups filled with rich amber-colored tea, placed on a wooden tea tray with loose tea leaves beside them, evoking a sense of authentic tea culture and craftsmanship.

Tea vs. Alcohol: Which Came First?

Another fascinating debate in history is which came first, tea or alcohol? Both beverages have ancient origins, but historical evidence suggests that alcohol predates tea consumption. Fermented beverages have been found in archaeological sites dating back over 9,000 years, whereas tea drinking was first recorded in China around 2737 BCE.

However, while alcohol was often used for ceremonial and social purposes, tea gained prominence as a medicinal and everyday beverage in Chinese society.

Unlike alcohol, which was frequently associated with intoxication, tea was valued for its ability to sharpen the mind and maintain mental clarity. Monks and scholars favored tea over alcohol for its ability to sustain focus and prolong wakefulness, particularly in religious and academic settings.

The contrast between these two beverages illustrates the functional role tea played in ancient societies, primarily as a tool for health and well-being.

A beautifully crafted blue and white porcelain teacup filled with amber-colored tea, elegantly placed on a matching saucer atop a wooden tray, creating a serene and traditional tea-drinking ambiance.

Three traditional Chinese teacups filled with golden-hued tea, neatly arranged on a wooden tray, evoking a sense of harmony and appreciation for the art of tea tasting.

Tea Drinking Origins: Where Did Tea Drinking Originate?

Tea drinking was first documented in China before spreading to neighboring regions such as Japan, Korea, and eventually the rest of the world. The question where did tea drinking originate? leads us back to ancient China, where Buddhist monks played a crucial role in popularizing tea drinking for its ability to enhance meditation and mental clarity.

The popularity of tea increased during the Tang Dynasty (618–907 CE), when it became a staple in Chinese households. The history of tea in China also reveals its significance in trade, particularly along the Silk Road. By the Song Dynasty (960–1279 CE), tea houses were common, and scholars praised tea for both its flavor and health benefits.

As tea culture continued to evolve, elaborate tea ceremonies emerged, particularly in Japan and China. These rituals highlighted tea’s spiritual and medicinal properties, reinforcing its status as more than just a beverage but a crucial element of wellness and tradition.

A serene tea setting featuring three elegant Chinese teacups filled with golden tea, accompanied by a traditional clay teapot, bathed in warm sunlight on a bamboo mat.

Two traditional Chinese teacups with intricate blue patterns, filled with amber-colored tea, placed on a wooden surface with a blurred green garden in the background.

The Spread of Tea: Where Was Tea First Cultivated?

Tea cultivation spread from China to other parts of Asia and the world. Where was tea first cultivated? The earliest known cultivation sites were in Yunnan, Sichuan, and Fujian provinces in China.

Over time, tea growing expanded to Japan, India, Sri Lanka, and eventually to Africa and South America. The spread of tea was driven not just by trade but also by its medicinal reputation.

In Japan, Buddhist monks introduced tea from China, leading to the development of matcha tea and its association with Zen meditation.

In India, tea cultivation flourished under British colonial influence, with Assam and Darjeeling teas becoming widely known for their distinct flavors and health benefits.

A glass teapot filled with golden tea, alongside a traditional ceramic teapot and a blue-patterned teacup, set on a wooden table with soft sunlight and blossoming branches in the background.

Tea Used in Medicine Throughout History

For centuries, tea has been more than just a refreshing drink—it has been a key player in natural healing and traditional medicine. From aiding digestion to boosting mental clarity, tea has been utilized in various ways to support overall health and well-being. Below, we explore some of the most notable health benefits of tea, dividing them into two primary categories: internal health benefits and mental and emotional well-being .

Two ornate ceramic teacups filled with tea sit on a rustic wooden table, creating a nostalgic and traditional tea-drinking ambiance.

A traditional blue and white porcelain teacup filled with tea, resting on a matching saucer with a blurred teapot in the background, evoking a serene tea-drinking experience.

1. Internal Health Benefits of Tea

Tea has long been associated with improving physical health, particularly in areas such as digestion, detoxification, immune support, and cardiovascular well-being.

Digestive Aid: Supporting Gut Health

Traditional Chinese medicine has long recommended green tea and oolong tea to support digestion and reduce bloating. The natural polyphenols in these teas help break down fats and improve nutrient absorption, making them a common choice after heavy meals. Drinking tea after eating was believed to aid in digestion and regulate gut health, preventing discomfort and indigestion.

Additionally, fermented teas such as Pu-erh tea contain probiotics that promote a balanced gut microbiome, which modern research has linked to overall digestive health.

Detoxification: A Natural Cleanser

Pu-erh tea, a unique fermented variety, has been traditionally used to eliminate toxins from the body. It was often consumed after meals rich in fats and oils to counteract their effects and aid in metabolic processes. Other teas, such as dandelion root tea and milk thistle tea, have been used for liver detoxification, cleansing the body from environmental toxins and processed foods.

Immune Support: Nature’s Defense System

Ancient herbalists frequently recommended ginger tea, ginseng tea, and echinacea tea to boost immunity. These herbal infusions were commonly consumed during cold and flu seasons to strengthen the body’s natural defenses and prevent illness. The antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties of certain herbs in tea were used to fight infections and promote faster recovery from sickness.

Heart Health: Enhancing Circulation and Cardiovascular Function

Ancient Chinese physicians believed that black tea and green tea could enhance circulation and support heart health. These teas contain flavonoids and catechins, which have been linked to reducing blood pressure, lowering cholesterol levels, and improving arterial function. Even today, many studies support the role of tea in maintaining cardiovascular wellness and preventing heart disease.

A traditional Chinese teacup with intricate green landscape designs, filled with freshly brewed green tea, placed on an ornate wooden tea tray with a teapot in the background.

Three traditional Chinese teacups with floral patterns, each filled with amber-colored tea, placed in a row on a rustic wooden table with a blurred natural background

2. Mental and Emotional Well-Being

Beyond its physical benefits, tea has played a major role in supporting mental clarity, relaxation, and emotional well-being.

Mental Alertness: Sustained Energy Without Jitters

Buddhist monks have long relied on tea for enhanced focus and meditation. The combination of caffeine and L-theanine in tea provides sustained energy without the sharp spikes and crashes associated with coffee. This makes tea an ideal beverage for promoting mental clarity, improving concentration, and increasing productivity.

This calming yet stimulating effect of tea made it a preferred drink for scholars, monks, and philosophers throughout history, ensuring they remained alert and focused for long hours of work or meditation.

Stress Relief and Relaxation: A Natural Anxiety Remedy

In contrast to its stimulating benefits, certain teas have been highly valued for their calming and stress-relieving effects. Chamomile tea, lavender tea, and valerian root tea have been used to ease anxiety, reduce stress levels, and promote restful sleep.

Many traditional healers recommended these teas to calm the nervous system, making them popular choices before bedtime or during moments of high stress. The adaptogenic properties in herbal teas helped individuals maintain emotional balance and cope with daily challenges.

Anti-Aging Benefits: Longevity and Youthful Vitality

Some ancient texts suggested that regular tea consumption could slow the aging process, helping to keep the skin youthful and the mind sharp. White tea and green tea, in particular, contain high levels of antioxidants, which combat free radicals and reduce oxidative stress—two factors heavily linked to aging.

In traditional Chinese medicine, tea was often associated with longevity, and many elders who consumed tea daily were believed to enjoy longer, healthier lives. Even today, tea is widely regarded as a powerful anti-aging beverage due to its ability to support skin health, improve cognitive function, and enhance overall vitality.

A top-down view of a rustic wooden tea setup featuring a black teapot, a cup of brewed tea, and various bowls filled with loose leaf teas, dried flowers, and tea snacks, creating a warm and inviting tea scene.

A beautifully arranged tea setup on a rustic wooden table, featuring a variety of loose leaf teas, including floral and herbal blends, in small plates. Traditional Chinese teacups filled with brewed tea sit alongside a classic clay teapot in the background, creating a warm and inviting tea experience.

The Timeless Healing Power of Tea

From ancient Chinese medicine to modern wellness practices, tea has stood the test of time as a powerful natural remedy. Whether it’s supporting digestion, promoting relaxation, boosting immunity, or protecting the heart, tea remains one of the most versatile and holistic health beverages available.

As scientific research continues to validate the healing properties of tea, more people are rediscovering its benefits. Whether you enjoy a warm cup of green tea for focus, chamomile for relaxation, or Pu-erh for digestion, you are participating in a tradition that has been cherished for thousands of years.

A traditional tea ceremony setup featuring a variety of loose leaf teas, herbs, and infusions arranged in small bowls on a wooden table. Classic Chinese teapots and vases decorate the background, with warm sunlight streaming through a window, enhancing the cozy and cultural ambiance.

A rustic tea setup featuring a variety of dried herbs, roots, and spices arranged in ceramic bowls. A cup of brewed herbal tea sits at the center, surrounded by traditional medicinal ingredients such as ginseng slices, dried jujube, and green tea leaves, reflecting the historical use of tea in medicine.

The Enduring Legacy of Tea as Medicine

Today, modern science supports many of the ancient beliefs about tea’s health benefits. Research confirms that tea is rich in antioxidants, which help combat free radicals, reduce inflammation, and support overall well-being. Whether it’s green tea for metabolism, black tea for heart health, or herbal teas for relaxation, the medicinal legacy of tea continues to thrive.

From its origins in ancient China to its widespread use in modern times, tea remains one of the world’s most valued natural remedies. Understanding where does tea come from and how it was used in medicine historically allows us to appreciate tea not just as a drink but as a tradition deeply rooted in healing.

As tea culture evolves, its role in promoting health and wellness remains steadfast. Whether you enjoy a traditional Chinese tea ceremony or sip herbal tea for its soothing effects, you are part of a centuries-old tradition that celebrates the power of tea.

By embracing the wisdom of the past and blending it with modern scientific discoveries, tea lovers around the world continue to honor the incredible journey of this timeless drink.