Tea is believed to have originated in China, where its use dates back thousands of years. According to legend, Emperor Shen Nong discovered it accidentally around 2737 BCE when leaves from a wild tea tree fell into his boiling water. The cultural significance of tea rapidly expanded, becoming an integral part of Chinese society and later influencing various cultures around the world. Over the centuries, tea was perfected and adapted, leading to different types such as green, black, and oolong. Today, it is one of the most consumed beverages globally, enjoyed for both its flavor and health benefits.