Korea

In Korea, consistent with the belief that daily foods and drinks can also serve as medicine, tea is much more than just a beverage. It is considered a very important drink for keeping the body in good physical condition and supporting overall health. Made with fruits, vegetables or various plants, a variety of teas are enjoyed as everyday beverages in Korea. In addition to green tea, popular teas include Korean carrot tea, omija tea, cinnamon tea, mugwort tea, lemon tea and jujube tea. Omija tea is made from the plant's red berries, and can be found in five different flavors. As this tea is good for the throat, it is popular with singers. Sunnyun tea, made from adding hot water to burnt rice left over in a pot, is often served in the home after a meal. It is said to help with digestion and also be good for one's bones. When drinking Korean carrot tea, cinnamon tea or others, using honey to sweeten the tea is a common practice among Koreans. There is also a custom in Korea for a bride to be given the branch of a tea tree. Because a tea tree grows straight from its roots, the branch represents wishes for the bride to live a long and happy life in her new home.