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Coffee - Some Fact and Some Fiction

It is hard to believe that a humble bean could generate so many romantic tales about its origins yet also be at the heart of so much hard-headed business acumen. You can be assured that from its beginnings to its present market prowess that this aromatic, dark and pungent liquid has enriched and fascinated people from all walks the world over.

What are the origins of the coffee plant? We have found in our research that the most reliable histories will say that Ethiopia is the origin of using this plant around 500 BC. As it grew in popularity people noted the stimulating side affects from consuming the plants berries. This observation was what motivated weary travelers to bring it with them to Arabia. It is here that it acquired the name.

During the age of the Renaissance, scientific thought and the arts were growing popular. It was at this time that commercial production and world wide distribution of what some labeled 'that heathenish liquid' also began. We see that by the end of the 18th century plantations along with drinking popularity had spread to Asia, The Middle East, Europe, South and North America.

Throughout those long centuries the health effects ascribed to coffee border on the miraculous. But, as with most claimed miracles, there's some fact at the bottom. Some studies suggest that mammalian sperm swim faster, farther and longer in fluid laced with coffee. The theory is the caffeine stimulates them. One Harvard study followed over 100,000 individuals for almost 20 years, drawing the conclusion that moderate use can help reduce diabetes. Others show reduction in cirrhosis of the liver and decrease of asthma severity.

The antioxidants that are found in drinks like wine, are also found in coffee These are what are touted as helping keep hearts healthier. We do find that critics argue over if the pros outweigh the cons. Coffee is also a diuretic. This motivates you to experience more frequent urination. Yet others assert that the stimulation from caffeine can lead to long term nerve degeneration. If you have ever experienced caffeine withdrawal, than you know first hand it can lead to increased sleeplessness and headaches.

What ever side you come down on in this debate coffee is here to stay. Just the sheer economics alone will guarantee that. As a commodity coffee is second only to oil. You will find it exchanges in New York, Hong Kong, London to Lima. There are currently over 500 billion cups of coffee consumed each year. Called 'black gold' we see it only growing in popularity. While in most cases adults drink only one or more cups daily, retail sales hovers near the $12 billion level annually.

Add to those figures the number of raw beans, grinders, roasters, brewers and cups bought for the home and the figures become astounding. With the rise in both basic commodity and specialty retail prices, the future for coffee businesses continues to look bright. Starbucks alone has over 10,000 outlets around the world.

Every corner it seems has a specialty coffee shop. These, however are not the only way to get your daily fix. There is now such a wide choice of blends and styles. Along with dozens of styles of home roasters, brewers and even home espresso machines. Espresso, was invented in 1901 and has grown in popularity ever since. You can get straight shots, long shots or double shots. What ever your pleasure you can make it at home.

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