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Matcha: The Superstar of Green Teas

Matcha's phenomenal success speaks for itself. This green tea, considered a superfood, is winning fans worldwide. Its unique color, umami flavor, and therapeutic benefits make it an almost magical ingredient.

Want to know everything about its history, preparation, and health benefits? This article will satisfy your thirst for knowledge.

MATCHA HISTORY

Matcha originated in China, but it was in Japan, from the 12th century onwards, that this tea's cultivation and consumption truly flourished. Matcha quickly became embedded in Japanese culture and remains today THE tea used during Cha No Yu, the traditional Japanese tea ceremony.

MATCHA CULTIVATION

The cultivation of Japanese matcha green tea follows time-honored traditions. It's grown in the shade, with tea plants protected from sunlight by nylon tarps or reed screens for three weeks before harvest. Limiting sun exposure allows the plants to:

  • Slow photosynthesis and thus reduce the conversion of theanine into tannins.
  • Increase chlorophyll production.
  • Develop more refined flavors, soften matcha's taste, and create its distinctive umami character.

This very specific cultivation method is what guarantees matcha's truly unique taste and benefits.

MATCHA PRODUCTION

The term matcha literally means "powdered tea" because it's produced by slowly grinding green tea leaves with a stone mill.

The tea leaves used are young shoots, as they contain 80% of the plant's antioxidants. They're hand-picked, steamed (to stop oxidation), then dried before being meticulously ground whole.

MATCHA PREPARATION

Unlike other teas, matcha isn't steeped but whisked. To prepare a bowl of matcha, place about 1 gram of matcha powder in 80 ml of water heated to 75°C (167°F). Then whisk the mixture in a W-motion using a bamboo whisk until a fine foam appears on the surface (this can take 30 seconds to a minute).

For perfect matcha preparation, don't hesitate to use dedicated utensils (measuring spoon, ceramic bowl, bamboo whisk, etc.)

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Matcha can be enjoyed hot or cold, used in savory or sweet dishes, combined with milk for a matcha latte, or blended with fruit in a smoothie. The possibilities are endless….

MATCHA HEALTH BENEFITS

Beyond its unique flavor, matcha has become a superfood primarily for its health benefits. It offers a multitude of therapeutic benefits for both body and mind.

Most of matcha's benefits stem from its exceptional concentration of polyphenols. Specifically epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a category of antioxidants with scientifically proven health benefits. Matcha green tea contains 137 times more than other green teas due to its production and preparation methods (consuming the entire tea leaf rather than just an infusion).

Here are its main properties:

  • Energizing effect: the theanine in a bowl of matcha can rival the effects of caffeine in a cup of coffee. But it's better tolerated by the body because in tea, theanine is bound to tannins. Tannins slow the body's absorption of theanine, so it's released more gradually into the bloodstream.
    • Result: energizing effects last longer and are accompanied by improved concentration and memory (thanks to L-theanine).
  • Antioxidant effect: the abundant antioxidants in matcha slow the action of free radicals circulating in the body.
    • Result: cellular aging is delayed.
  • Protective effect: the catechins in matcha support the body's natural defenses.
    • Result: the immune system gets a boost.
  • Relaxing effect: L-theanine, highly concentrated in matcha (thanks to shade-growing), helps combat stress. This amino acid naturally stimulates alpha waves in the brain.
    • Result: a sense of wellbeing comparable to a massage or warm bath.
  • Detoxifying effect: EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate) and chlorophyll, present in high concentrations in matcha, accelerate the elimination of waste from the body.
    • Result: after a cleanse, the body is relieved of many toxins.
  • Slimming effect: The EGCG in matcha is known to stimulate the body's thermogenesis and for its fat-burning and anti-cholesterol effects.
    • Result: combined with a healthy lifestyle, it's a powerful ally for maintaining your figure!
  • Diuretic effect: Like all green teas, matcha has a beneficial effect on kidney filtration of water.
    • Result: the body eliminates waste more effectively and retains less water.

    Related reading: matcha origins and accessories | Matcha Latte recipe | the complete green tea guide.

    Related reading: matcha origins and accessories | Matcha Latte recipe | the complete green tea guide.

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