The purple clay teapot is a familiar companion for most tea enthusiasts. Over time, with frequent use and careful handling, the teapot's surface becomes increasingly smooth and lustrous, making it a beloved item among tea lovers. As the Ming Dynasty scholar Wen Long noted in "Tea Notes": "Cherished and caressed like a precious pearl, over time, its exterior resembles purple jade, and its interior resembles emerald clouds." Given that purple clay teapots improve with use and are meant for both internal and external application, one might wonder why it is often said that "one teapot should not serve two teas."

Many purple clay teapot users adhere to the practice of using a single teapot for only one type of tea, though the reason behind this is not widely known.

This habit is rooted in the unique characteristics of the purple clay teapot. Due to its porous structure, the teapot absorbs the flavors of the tea. As a result, a well-used teapot can infuse boiling water with a faint tea aroma even without adding tea leaves. Therefore, using a teapot exclusively for one type of tea ensures that the brewed tea retains its original freshness and purity. Alternating between different teas, such as oolong tea one day, pu-erh tea the next, and floral tea the day after, would inevitably lead to a mingling of flavors, resulting in a loss of distinctiveness.

It is particularly important to note that some people, in an attempt to create a "tea mountain" inside the teapot for an antique appearance, leave tea leaves inside to dry naturally. However, in warm and humid climates, this practice can easily lead to mold growth inside the teapot. From a hygiene perspective, this method is not advisable. Others intentionally leave the last infusion of tea in the pot until the next use, believing it enhances the teapot's conditioning. However, the porous nature of the purple clay teapot, while excellent at absorbing tea flavors, also makes it prone to absorbing mold. Such practices may result in off-flavors in future brews and even pose health risks, outweighing any perceived benefits.

Tea drinking, as a leisurely cultural activity, is not only about savoring the tea's taste but also about cultivating a calm and joyful mindset. Adhering to the principle of "one teapot, one tea" allows one to appreciate the subtle, unadulterated flavors of the tea, experiencing a pure and elegant taste. On the other hand, transcending this principle opens up a different realm: one of spontaneity, flexibility, and包容, where natural charm emerges effortlessly!