When talking about this type of healthy tea, remember that any type of black tea, even Chinese loose black tea that has bergamot flavoring would be considered “Earl Grey”.  To make this type of tea, some tea companies actually use low quality tea, hoping the bergamot flavoring will mask the less than desirable flavor.  While everyone drinks Earl Grey differently, most like a slice of lemon, which enhances the already great flavor.

Earl Grey Tea’s Origin

In 1830, Britain’s Prime Minister was Earl Charles Grey and while in China working on diplomatic relations, Grey had the opportunity to save the life of a Mandarin Chinese person.  To thank the Prime Minister for his selfless act, he was given a gift of special tea, which was taken back to England.  Serving the tea to family and friends, word quickly spread about this unique tea, which soon became a fashionable beverage in all of Britain.

While the story is one of nobility, many people question its authenticity.  For one thing, the Prime Minister had never been to China to work on diplomatic relations and, black tea was seldom consumed in China since most people preferred the Chinese herbal tea known as green tea.  Because of this, the true history and origin of Earl Grey tea is still somewhat mysterious.

What is Bergamot Flavoring

The flavoring used in the making of Earl Grey tea is called Bergamot, which is a cultivated citrus tree that grows on the south coast of Italy, also called the Princess Pear since the fruit is actually edible.  From the tree, oil is extracted and often used for making perfume.  In fact, the very first Eau de Cologne made used this oil as an ingredient.  However, Bergamot is also the special flavoring of Earl Grey, which has a unique flavor of grapefruit, lemon, and orange combined.  Keep in mind that Bergamot found in Earl Grey tea is not the same as the Bergamot herb.

During the wintertime and just prior to the fruit ripening, fruit is picked from the tree by hand.  From there, the essence of Bergamot is extracted using cold compresses, followed by storing for up to a full year.  In aromatherapy, the essence of Bergamot is often used to treat depression but because it also has antimicrobial effects, it can help boost the body’s immune system so fighting off colds and flu is easier.

Benefits Specific to Women

Interestingly, it is also said that while Earl Grey was Prime Minister, any type of exotic tea created a unique response in women, making them more sensual and sexually aggressive.  To help curb these excitable responses, lemon, orange, and Bergamot were added to tea, which was the beginning of “Lady Grey” tea.  While this type of tea was originally developed for women, the wonderful flavor can be enjoyed by men too.