Tea, a word rich in meaning that whets imaginations! The story of these little leaves and their first use as an infusion--lost somewhere between history and legend--is presented here: travels from China, its country of origin, through neighboring lands, all the way to the West and beyond. Beloved or vilified depending on the period; pure, blended, or flavored; linked to Buddhism right from the start, tea remains associated with nature, calm, and serenity, and has become a vital part of ritual. More importantly, tea can be found in homes around the world, from the wealthiest to the most modest. With full-color illustrations and 103 recipes.