While the legend is captivating, the historical origin of tea began much later during the Han Dynasty (206 BCE – 220 CE), when it was used primarily as a medicinal herb. At this time, tea leaves were being processed and consumed in early forms, setting the stage for tea's transformation into a daily beverage. 

Tea culture truly flourished during the Tang Dynasty (618–907 CE), when it became a refined art form and a central part of Chinese society. From there, tea spread to Japan in the 9th century, influencing the development of the Japanese tea ceremony, and eventually made its way westward. 

Tea eventually made its way to Europe in the 17th century via Dutch and Portuguese traders, quickly becoming a fashionable drink in many European countries. By the 18th century, it was a global commodity that shaped economies and influenced many cultures around the world.