Matcha Green Tea Benefits, History & How to Make It
Matcha green tea, with its vibrant emerald hue, has gained immense popularity worldwide, not just as a beverage but also as a wellness staple. Rooted in centuries-old Japanese tradition, matcha is much more than a drink; it is a symbol of mindfulness, ceremony, and well-being.
Today, matcha has found a firm footing in global health and culinary trends. Cafés around the world offer matcha lattes, matcha-infused desserts, and even matcha cocktails. Its versatility, combined with its healthful properties, has cemented matcha’s reputation as a superfood.
What Is Matcha?
Matcha is a type of powdered green tea made from specially grown and processed Camellia Sinensis leaves. Unlike traditional green tea, where the leaves are steeped and discarded, matcha involves consuming the whole leaf in powdered form, maximising its nutritional benefits as we take in an extra level of L-theanine, caffeine, polyphenols, and all the other ingredients in tea.
The process begins with shading the tea plants for 21 days before harvest to increase chlorophyll levels and amino acids, which contribute to sweetness and the umami character. After harvesting, the leaves are steamed, dried, and stone-ground into a fine powder. All the stalks, stems, and veins are removed, leaving just the tender leaves, resulting in matcha’s fine texture and flavour.
History and Cultural Significance
Matcha has its origins in China during the Tang Dynasty (7th–10th centuries), but it was the Japanese who refined its cultivation and ceremonial use. Introduced to Japan by the monk Eisai in the 12th century, matcha became integral to Zen Buddhism and the Japanese tea ceremony (chanoyu), emphasising harmony, respect, purity, and tranquillity.
Beyond its nutritional profile, matcha holds a place of honour in Japanese culture. The tea ceremony, deeply influenced by Zen principles, is a meditative practice that embodies presence, appreciation, and respect. In this way, drinking matcha can be more than a daily ritual—it can be a moment of mindful reflection.
Health Benefits of Matcha
Reputable scientific studies confirm the health benefits of matcha green tea. Here are four key points:
It is Rich in Antioxidants
Matcha is packed with catechins, especially EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate), which are known for their powerful antioxidant properties. These compounds help neutralise harmful free radicals in the body, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
It may Boost Energy and Cognitive Function
Thanks to a moderate caffeine content (about half that of coffee) and the presence of L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes calm alertness, matcha provides a sustained energy boost without the crash associated with coffee.
L-theanine not only promotes relaxation but also improves attention and memory. Combined with caffeine, it creates a unique synergy that enhances brain function and mood.
www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/matcha-a-look-at-possible-health-benefits
It may Support Metabolism and Weight Loss
Research suggests that matcha may enhance fat oxidation and increase metabolic rate, making it a popular choice for those seeking to support weight management naturally.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35921023/
It may Improve the Gut Microbiota
A randomised, double-blind clinical trial gave participants matcha or placebo drinks for 2 weeks. The matcha group showed significant shifts in gut microbial diversity
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36936880/
In conclusion, we can say that Matcha green tea is a drink that bridges the past and present. Whether enjoyed in a traditional tea ceremony or a trendy latte, it offers a unique combination of flavour, health benefits, and cultural depth. As more people seek wellness and mindfulness in their daily lives, matcha continues to stand out as a holistic elixir, energising the body and soothing the mind.
How to Prepare Matcha
Making traditional matcha involves a few deliberate steps:
Sift 2gr of matcha powder into a bowl to remove clumps.
Warm 70 ml of hot water (around 175°F / 80°C).
Add a small quantity of water to the tea and mix carefully to a thick paste with a bamboo whisk.
Add the rest of the water, gently mix with the matcha paste and start to whisk vigorously in a zigzag, backwards and forwards, making the shape of an M or a W motion until a frothy layer forms.
Ideas for using matcha in food and drinks
Whisk into warm or hot milk to make a matcha latte (about 1 teaspoon of matcha per cup of liquid).
Blend it into a fruit smoothie.
Mix it in salad dressing.
Sprinkle on cereal, oatmeal, or yoghurt, plain popcorn.
Use it to bake cookies, brownies, or cupcakes.
Tea drinkers to be careful how they use it
As the The Global Japanese Tea Association, we are encouraging people to use lower-grade matcha from later harvests, which is more abundant and better-suited for cooking.
Whilst, High-grade matcha often loses its delicate flavour when used in drinks like lattes, it adds, is better when used its purest form rather than as an ingredient in recipes.
Matcha FAQs
Does Matcha contain caffeine?
Yes, Matcha, like all other teas, contains caffeine.
Can I drink Matcha every day?
Yes, 1-2 cups daily is typically safe and beneficial, but avoid overconsumption if sensitive to caffeine.
What makes Japanese Matcha Hisui special?
Our Matcha “Hisui” comes from a certified organic farm in Japan. It is slowly stone-ground and made from hand-picked leaves grown under shade to enhance chlorophyll and amino acid content.
The infusion has a smooth texture, vibrant green colour, fresh cut meadow aroma, with a full-bodied nutty taste and long-lasting sweet aftertaste.
Its ceremonial quality makes it ideal for both traditional preparation and modern recipes.
Is Matcha healthier than coffee?
A cup of Matcha contains about half the caffeine of a cup of coffee but delivers a more stable energy boost, thanks to L-theanine. It also supports mental clarity and calmness without the typical coffee crash.
Are there side effects of drinking Matcha?
Drinking a lot of matcha may not be beneficial for everyone, especially for people who are sensitive to caffeine. Also, to avoid the intake of pesticides, always opt for organic matcha like our Matcha Hisui Japanese Tea (trulyteashop.co.uk). Drink 1–2 cups per day for maximum benefit.
Which type of Matcha is best for cooking?
Lower-grade matcha from later harvests, which is more abundant and cheaper is better-suited for cooking. This conscious use could help to address the shortage