Matcha Benefits: Why This Green Elixir Deserves A Spot In Your Daily Ritual

Matcha tea has become a new trend! The reason? Potential health benefits of matcha tea. Drinking matcha tea can offer you some pretty awesome health perks, making it worth the hype. Unlike other teas where you steep the leaves and then toss them, with matcha, you're going to consume the entire leaf! Think of this like getting a whole package. That's where those exciting health benefits came from.

What are those matcha tea benefits? We’ll learn all about them, but before that, here’s what you should know about matcha.

What is Matcha?

Matcha is simply a vibrant green colour powder made from the leaves of the camellia sinensis plant, the same plant from which we get green tea. This powder is whisked with hot water to get a frothy drink, aka matcha tea. Traditionally, matcha tea has been an integral part of the Japanese tea ceremony, but these days it has gained global popularity due to its unique umami flavour and mind-blowing health benefits.

Are matcha tea and green tea the same?

If your question is whether Matcha tea and green tea are the same or not? The answer is no! Matcha tea and green tea are two completely different beverages, from harvesting to preparation to consuming methods. And even the nutrient content is not the same. But the crucial fact to know is that both are prepared from the leaves of the same plant, which might be the only similarity they have.

While the leaves destined for matcha tea are shaded for 20-30 days before harvest, green tea plants are typically grown in full sunlight. Coming to preparation, the youngest and finest leaves are hand-picked, which are stone-ground into a very fine powder,  only after removing the stems and veins. This is how matcha is produced. But the processing method for green tea includes harvesting the leaves and then quickly steaming or pan-frying to prevent oxidation. Plus, matcha tea boasts a higher concentration of antioxidants, particularly catechins, in comparison to green tea.

Matcha Made In Heaven: Best Places To Find Your Perfect Matcha Latte In Delhi

Health benefits of matcha

Now that we know exactly what Matcha tea is, let's get straight to the point — the matcha health benefits. Scroll down to learn about those amazing matcha tea benefits that have made it so trendy.

1. Exceptionally high in antioxidants

While matcha tea offers you plenty of health benefits, being high in antioxidants is the key benefit associated with drinking matcha tea— the prime reason behind its hype. Matcha tea is packed with antioxidants, especially catechins, a class of plant compounds. One specific catechin, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), is particularly abundant and potent in matcha. One cup of matcha tea can give you significantly more antioxidants than any other tea. These ultimately combat free radicals in the body, reducing oxidative stress and potentially lowering the risk of chronic diseases. Hence, it may slow down your ageing process, too.

2. May boost brain function

A boost in brain function is one of the best matcha green tea benefits you get. Caffeine, theanine, and catechins are the super ingredients that work together to get better cognitive performance. Caffeine provides a stimulant effect while theanine helps to relax and focus without drowsiness. Plus, the combination of caffeine and L-theanine in matcha has been linked to improved memory, attention, and processing speed. Not only this, but matcha tea properties can counter age-related cognitive decline too, making it an amazing beverage for the elderly!

3. Potential liver protection

Consuming matcha may help you get a healthier liver due to its higher concentration of compounds. Some research also suggests that matcha tea properties may benefit people with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) by reducing liver enzymes. However, additional studies are required to get accurate
results.

4. May improve heart health

You might have heard that consuming green tea can help you achieve a healthier heart. As the nutrient content of matcha is similar to it ( while in higher concentration), drinking matcha tea regularly can also lower LDL (bad) cholesterol, total cholesterol, blood pressure, and the risk of cardiovascular events. The antioxidants, like catechins, reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, which is ultimately beneficial for cardiovascular health.

5. May help lose weight 

Can I take matcha for weight loss? Yes, you can add matcha to your diet if you want to lose weight. From boosting metabolism to increased fat oxidation, the compounds in matcha tea can make you burn more calories during exercise or even at rest. Being rich in caffeine content, it can act as a mild appetite suppressant and reduce your overall calorie intake.

From Sips To Sweet Treats: Explore The Different Ways To Drink & Eat Matcha

Quick matcha recipes

Want to match your daily diet regimen but are unsure about how to do it? Relax, matcha powder is super versatile and offers numerous delicious options to let you enjoy its earthy, umami flavour.

Here are some quick, refreshing recipes to make with matcha, perfectly suitable for a busy bee, too.

1. Matcha tea

Undeniably, Matcha tea is the most popular and the easiest way to consume matcha. Just whisk 1 tsp matcha with 4 tbsp hot water until smooth and frothy. Then, just add more hot water until it tastes just right for you. And, your vibrant, energising drink is ready!

2. Matcha latte

Whisk 1 tsp matcha with 2 tbsp hot water until smooth. Now, add 1 cup of your favourite steamed milk and add sugar to taste. Your Matcha Latte is ready to energise you! Enjoy this vibrant and energising drink.

3. Matcha smoothie

To make a Matcha Smoothie, you need 2 frozen bananas, 1/2 cup spinach, and 1/2 cup milk (whether you go dairy or non-dairy is up to you). Blend everything well, and add a touch of sweetener if desired.

4. Matcha overnight oats

If you're always in a hurry in the morning, Matcha Overnight Oats is one of the best breakfast options you have. Just mix 1/2 cup rolled oats, 1 cup milk, 1 tbsp chia seeds, 1 tsp matcha, and a drizzle of maple syrup in a jar. Refrigerate the mixture overnight and relish this yummy and healthy breakfast.

5. Matcha yoghurt parfait

If you're someone obsessed with yoghurt, Matcha Yoghurt Parfait can be the best way to add matcha powder to your diet. Layer yoghurt (Greek or regular), granola, and a sprinkle of matcha powder. Add your favourite fruits and nuts to it, and you're done!