Matcha is a tea originating in China, although many people relate it directly to Japanese culture.
It began to be drunk in China during the Song Dynasty (960-1279), when many Japanese immigrants arrived in the country intending to learn Chan Buddhism, today known as Zen Buddhism.
In this form of Buddhism, Matcha tea played a key role, as it helped to keep the mind alert while promoting relaxation of the body, ideal conditions for meditation.
That is why many Japanese who returned to their native country brought back the custom of drinking this beverage, which later became a vital element in the Japanese tea ceremony, Chanoyu. Today, we are going to study this millenary beverage in depth.
Table of Contents
What Is Matcha?
Matcha is made from the whole green tea leaf, which provides a higher amount of nutrients and antioxidants. The plant is grown protected from direct sunlight, which reduces the rate of photosynthesis and stimulates the production of chlorophyll and amino acids. It is very common to find it in the form of a very ground powder and with a strong green color, and it is necessary to beat it gently with water to consume it.
Nutritional Properties of Matcha Tea
- Matcha green tea is a source of many essential nutrients:
- It contains vitamins A, C, E, K, and B complex. It contains minerals such as Magnesium, Zinc, Selenium and Chromium.
- It has an enormous antioxidant capacity with polyphenols, catechins and chlorophyll.
- It also provides dietary fiber, helping digestion.
- It has amino acids such as L-theanine and theophylline, making tea a multi-nutrient beverage.
- Matcha has 137 times more antioxidants than regular green tea.
Matcha Green Tea Benefits
1.Helps Relaxation
The amino acid L-theanine in Matcha has anti-anxiolytic properties, which helps increase alpha waves in the brain. It improves mood, promotes relaxation, and induces a deep sense of mental clarity while providing an alert state of mind.
2.Great Source of Antioxidants
Matcha has many antioxidants that help detoxify the body of free radicals that our body can suffer from. A study published at the University of Colorado evaluated the antioxidant power of this tea. The neutralization of the harmful effects of free radicals protects the body from the onset of disorders or inflammation associated with oxidative stress.
3.Detoxifies The Body
As we said before, chlorophyll is a very important component of Matcha, and it is the same component that helps cleanse the blood. It keeps it alkaline and helps prevent the association of toxins with the walls of the colon, eliminating them from the body.
4.Cancer Prevention and Support
We already know that a high intake of antioxidants is beneficial in a regimen aimed at cancer prevention or treatment. A study conducted by essays from the best write paper online service showed that tea may have potential anti-cancer effects. It has a therapeutic effect on our body by “…mediating the metabolic reprogramming of cancer cells”.
5.Increases Energy
Matcha green tea has a kind of caffeine called theophylline that maintains energy levels without any side effects, so it should not be confused with the caffeine in coffee. It releases energy in a more balanced and slower way, which helps the functioning of the adrenal glands. It also helps maintain optimal hormone levels.
6.Prevents Eye Disorder
It has been studied that the consumption of Matcha helps the absorption of catechin in the tissues of the eye, which prevents blindness caused by cataracts.
7.Helps Weight Loss
Thanks to catechins, Matcha green tea helps to lose body fat and improve metabolic functioning, making it a great beverage for calorie-deficient diets.
8.Improves Cognitive Health
One study revealed that the theanine found in Matcha acts as a neurotransmitter. It generates a calming effect that allows for deep concentration without causing drowsiness. Another study published in Biological Psychology Journal supported the anti-stress effects of theanine present in Matcha, inhibiting neuronal excitability in the face of physiological and psychological stress. It is also believed to increase memory and overall concentration.
9.Protects Against Infections
A study conducted in Essen, Germany found that the EGCG present in Matcha inhibits the growth of several pathogens such as influenza A virus, hepatitis B and C, herpes virus and Candida yeast.
10.Improves Digestion
Matcha is a good beverage to help with treatment of gastrointestinal disorders. A research study conducted in this hood revealed that it stimulates fecal excretion, which may help eliminate harmful chemicals or toxins.
11.Prevents Kidney and Liver Damage
A study in diabetes patients administered Matcha extracts showed that it helps prevent kidney and liver damage, restricting the accumulation of advanced glycation in the kidneys. It also helps treat non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
12.Maintains Blood Sugar Levels
Matcha helps maintain a healthy metabolism by lowering blood sugar levels. And thanks to its antioxidant content, it also reduces triglyceride levels, cholesterol and hepatic glucose content in diabetic patients.
Side Effects of Matcha Green Tea
Caffeine content: Although it is not the same as coffee, it can trigger allergic reactions. These include diarrhea, arrhythmia and irritable bowel syndrome. If in doubt, it is best to visit a doctor. During pregnancy and breastfeeding: In these special conditions we always recommend consulting your family doctor when seeking to consume a food for therapeutic purposes.