The Mystique of Coffee
How could a simple drink be responsible for so many romantic legends and so much hard-headed business? From the first discovery of coffee til today, this dark and pungent beverage has fascinated, enriched, and possibly cured millions.
Many people believe that coffee was discovered in Ethiopia around 500 BC. After observing the stimulating affects of its berries, travelers brought beans to Arabia and it began to be called coffee.
Coffee gained popularity in Europe during the Renaissance and became a commercial success with wide distribution. Eventually coffee became popular in Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and the Americas.
The Healing Power of Coffee
For centuries coffee has been consider to be almost a wonder drug. The miraculous poewr of coffee has perhaps been exaggerated, but there’s a modicum of truth to the claim.
Coffee has been touted as an antioxidant, diuretic, and insecticide. Some studies have found that coffee has a positive affect on the management of heart disease, diabetes, asthma, and liver disease. But other studies have found that the caffeine in coffee is not that good for people.
Like most things, coffee is best taken in moderation.
The Coffee Trade
Coffee is an important element in the world’s economy. The dollar amount of the coffee beans traded on exchanges in New York, London, Lima, and Hong Kong is staggering.
In addition coffee has given rise to the manufacture of coffee roasting, grinding, and brewing equipment for both home and commercial use.
Coffee continues to be a favorite beverage in many parts of the world. There are an amazing number of coffee shops and, of course, it is served at most restaurants and fast food outlets.
The rise of Starbucks inspired competitors both large and small to try to copy the very successful model. Eventually it became easier to find espresso, latte, and cappuccino even in fast food outlets like McDonalds.
Smart consumers began to buy their own equipment to make the same delicious drinks at home.
Connoisseurs began to treat coffee with the same reverence as wine aficionados treat rare vintages. The rise of special blends and roasts, coffee flavorings, and use of coffee in cooking only confirmed the mystique of coffee.
Updated May 30, 2009
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