Green tea matcha is considered to be a better variant of the regular green tea. When you drink matcha, you drink the entire leaves of the plant, not just their infuse. Matcha’s origin is in the Japanese culture and it is considered to be the highest quality green tea. The leaves are plucked only from the very top of the shaded plant of Camellia sinensis, then they are steamed, the stems and twigs are thrown away, and then the leaves are dried and milled to a fine green matcha powder. Matcha is then stored and protected from light and oxygen so it can maintain its vibrant colour and antioxidant properties.

7 plus points for matcha

1) Source of catechins (EGCG)

Antioxidants catechins are the most effective and the most beneficial for body. Green tea matcha is a great source of one specific catechin called epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG).

2) Calories burning

Green tea can boost up metabolism and help burning the excessive fat about four times faster than is normal, and with no negative side effects, such as faster heart-rate or high blood pressure.

3) Body detox

Matcha creation process from the Camellia sinensis plant requires shading the tea leaves from sunshine which raises their production of chlorophyll. The resulting high amount of chlorophyll not only provides the tea its vibrant green colour but it also makes it a strong detox beverage that has the ability to flush out heavy metals and chemical toxins from our body.

4) Help with strengthening our immunity 

Catechins found in this tea can support the function of our immunity system. Just one bowl of matcha green tea provides enough nutrients, such as potassium, vitamins A and C, iron, protein and calcium.

5) Boost of energy

Matcha contains tea form of caffeine, theine, which is gentler for our body than the caffeine in coffee. It is being released gradually for up to six hours so there is no fluctuation that is characteristic for coffee or energy drinks.

6) Evokes feelings of calmness

The amino acid L-theanine in the leaves used for matcha helps stimulate the production of alpha brain waves which also results in feelings of calmness and relaxation without sleepiness.

7) Enhances memory and concentration 

L-theanine produces hormones such as dopamine and serotonin which improve mood, strengthen memory and support better concentration.

Author: Ruchira Dhoke

Original article: HERE