Why do people in hot countries drink hot tea?

    At first glance, this seems completely illogical. When temperatures rise above 30°C, most of us instinctively reach for cold water or chilled drinks. Yet in many hot countries – from Morocco, through India, to the Arabian Peninsula – people have been drinking hot tea for generations, even during the hottest spells. Is it simply part of a local tradition, or is there more to it than that?

    The answer is not as obvious as it might seem. Intuition suggests that a cold drink should provide greater relief in the heat. However, it turns out that the body reacts to a hot beverage in a rather surprising way. Hot tea stimulates perspiration, and the evaporation of sweat helps to dissipate excess heat from the skin. In a dry and breezy climate, this mechanism can help the body cool itself off more effectively. It is worth remembering, though, that this effect depends on environmental conditions. When the air is very humid, sweat evaporates much more slowly, so the benefit of a hot drink is much less noticeable.

    It is no coincidence that this way of serving tea has held an important place in the cultures of many warm-climate countries for centuries. In Morocco, it is hard to imagine a gathering without fragrant mint tea, and its preparation and serving are an important part of hospitality. In India, traditional masala chai enjoys immense popularity all year round and is sold on the streets both in winter and the height of summer. The Bedouins have also been preparing hot tea while travelling through the desert for generations. In many of these countries, tea is more than just a drink; it forms part of daily rituals, social gatherings and moments of rest. It is an interesting example of a situation in which a centuries-old tradition is supported by scientific understanding of how the human body functions.

    Of course, this does not mean that cold tea is a worse option. In hot and humid climates or during intense physical exertion, a chilled drink can be more comforting. However, regardless of the drink’s temperature, the most important thing is to remain properly hydrated. Like other drinks, tea effectively helps to replenish fluids lost in hot weather. Whether we choose a cup of hot tea or a glass of chilled tea with ice should be determined primarily by the conditions we find ourselves in and our own preferences.

    Perhaps this is precisely why tea has remained so popular for centuries. It adapts to the climate, culture and customs of the people who drink it. In some parts of the world, tea tastes best hot, even in the middle of summer, while in others it is more commonly served with ice, fresh mint or fruit. Although the way it is prepared and served may change, what matters most remains the same: tea is a drink that has brought people together and offered moments of respite for centuries, regardless of the temperature outside.