What is matcha: definition and properties
Matcha is a green tea from Japan. The Japanese drink has an astonishing specificity: it is not consumed in the form of leaves, like other teas, but in powder, an incredibly fine and light powder. More green color is intense, the better its quality will be. But in this regard, how emerald green characteristic of matcha is it obtained? The teapots from which powdered green tea comes are covered with shade a few weeks before harvest. Deprived of light, its leaves must produce more chlorophyll to carry out photosynthesis. Result ? A vibrant green color. This process allows the plant to create moreamino acids. This softens the tea and increases the level of catechin (polyphenols), an antioxidant that is very good for your health!
History of matcha tea
It was Eisai, a Zen master, who introduced matcha to Japan in 1191. He brought back seeds following a Buddhist study trip to China. Matcha was then grown in very small quantities in Kyoto (Japan), in the first Zen temple created by Eisai: the drink met with unexpected success and was quickly considered the best tea in Japan. The monks established a matcha tasting ritual, a tea ceremony which has now become emblematic of Japan. They also have the idea of covering the tea to increase its benefits and properties tenfold.
To obtain this rare tea, the pickers then select by hand the most beautiful leaves of the tea plants. Then they are dried and are delicately ground between two stone millstones, most often granite. When preparing this Japanese tea, the water completely absorbs the matcha powder resulting from grinding. He then delivers all his benefits...
What does matcha tea taste like?
Matcha is characterized by a vegetal and unique taste in the mouth. Which is not always unanimous among some! Be careful of the bitter characters that certain references may have. Not everyone has the same quality. A high-end Ceremonial matcha is not supposed to have too much bitterness.
What are the benefits and virtues of matcha?
A tea with beneficial properties for health and the body! The matcha was the favorite tea of Buddhist monks, samurai and emperors. The first were convinced that it allowed them to concentrate while keeping their minds alert during their long meditation sessions. The seconds drank it before the fight, so that it would bring them energy and vivacity. They all granted him the power to fight against fatigue and ensure a certain longevity. A legend that is not without foundation: matcha would be a real well-being cocktail, rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. A concentrate of good nutrients, in short!
Stimulating, relaxing, antioxidant… the properties of matcha
The Prince of Green Teas is full antioxidants, of vitamins (A, C and E), oftrace elements (zinc, copper and iron) andamino acids (around 20 times more than for a classic green tea). Its richness in catechin allows it to:
- boost your immunity
- reduce fatigue and boost your energy thanks to the caffeine and iron it contains
- regulate blood pressure
- fight prostate cancer (helps fight free radicals)
- prevent oral infections
- fight bad breath
- a beautiful skin effect by slowing down cell aging
The richness of matcha in catechins (polyphenols), molecules with remarkable antioxidant powers, is partly the explanation for the thousand virtues attributed to it.
Good to know: The family of antioxidants is vast. One of the most important of these is EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate), a powerful flavonoid and catechin, which is found in large quantities in matcha.
And it’s not over yet! The matcha green tea would stimulate both the mind and the body: the Japanese drink is an excellent energizing and relaxing. The matcha is rich in magnesium, a mineral trace element known for its anti-stress property. It also contains theanine.
Theanine aims to regulate mood and acts beneficially on memory, concentration and depression. Ready for your next wellness break ? To take full advantage of the benefits of matcha tea, we learn how to prepare it according to the rules of the art…
Antioxidant and detoxifying effects
The consumption of matcha, famous for its antioxidant benefits, is a true elixir for health. Thanks to its high concentration of catechins, notably epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), this emerald green powder acts as a powerful shield against free radicals, these harmful particles involved in cellular aging and various diseases. Regular consumers of matcha agree that this natural antioxidant effectively detoxifies the body, thanks to the chlorophyll present in green tea leaves, which promotes the elimination of toxins and heavy metals.
The health impact of matcha doesn't stop there; in addition to its detoxifying properties, it supports metabolism and the liver protection. According to reviews and qualitative analyses, selecting an organic and premium quality matcha will guarantee a rich taste and low bitterness, while ensuring an optimal concentration of beneficial active ingredients. Thus, investing in a good Japanese matcha is often considered wise by enthusiasts, due to its positive effect on the skin and its ability to promote a feeling of general well-being.
In summary, integrating this energy drink into our recipes or our morning cup of latte not only offers a boost of energy similar to that of coffee, without the unwanted effects of caffeine, but also a significant contribution to the preservation of our health. For anyone looking for foods with health-giving properties, matcha is a top choice.
Impact on energy and concentration
Consumption of matcha is known to provide significant energy boost and improve concentration. The effects of this fine green tea powder come primarily from the caffeine it contains, providing a more stable and long-lasting release than that of coffee. The presence of L-theanine, a unique amino acid, promotes relaxation without drowsiness, thus facilitating sustained mental alert. Unlike the energetic peaks and valleys associated with coffee, matcha provides a more balanced energizing effect without anxiety or agitation. Here are the main impacts it can have on the body:
- Increased alertness and ability to concentrate in the long term.
- Reduction of fatigue and weariness thanks to a good energy level maintained throughout the day.
- Improved mood and mental well-being, reducing stress and anxiety.
- Opinions are unanimous regarding its effectiveness in supporting an active and healthy lifestyle, making matcha a health ally of choice for fans of a conscious and energizing diet.
The cardiovascular benefits of matcha
Regular consumption of matcha is associated with multiple benefits for the heart and blood vessels. Indeed, this fine and green powder is rich in catechins, notably epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), known for its positive impact on cardiovascular health. Studies suggest that the antioxidant properties of EGCG may help reduce the oxidation of LDL cholesterol, commonly known as "bad cholesterol", and therefore, prevent atherosclerosis. Additionally, consumption of matcha could contribute to lowering blood pressure, thus reducing the risk of hypertension, one of the main risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Another significant benefit is theanine, an amino acid present in large quantities in matcha, promotes relaxation and reduces stress, which is a factor known to have harmful effects on the cardiovascular system.
- Rich in catechins, notably EGCG
- Protection against LDL-cholesterol oxidation
- Potential contribution to reducing blood pressure
- Relaxing effect of theanine on the cardiovascular system
Matcha and weight management
Matcha is much more than just a traditional Japanese drink; it is a powder rich in benefits that can play a key role in weight management. Thanks to its high content of catechins, powerful antioxidants, matcha promotes fat oxidation and stimulates metabolism, thus accelerating caloric expenditure. Furthermore, the presence of caffeine and theanine in this highly concentrated green tea powder contributes to a prolonged satiety effect, reducing the tendency to compulsive snacking and thus supporting weight control efforts. Many opinions agree on the effectiveness of organic matcha as a slimming ally, not only because of its natural properties but also for its positive influence on energy and concentration, essential factors for maintaining regular physical activity. By integrating matcha into your recipes and everyday drinks, you are opting for a healthy option whose virtues continue to impress.
Influence on skin and beauty
If you're looking to give your skin a boost while enjoying a wellness treatment, matcha could well be your new beauty ally. This fine, bright green powder is not only a delight to consume but it also contains beneficial properties for the skin. Rich in antioxidants, notably the famous catechins, matcha helps fight skin aging and promotes skin radiance. Expert opinions praise its detoxifying properties, which help purify the epidermis and reduce the appearance of imperfections.
How to prepare matcha tea to make the most of its benefits?
For the body to best assimilate these numerous nutrients, the matcha preparation meets specific rules.
Opt for organic matcha tea
To make the most of the health benefits, Kusmi recommends that you choose organic matcha tea. Ceremonial if possible. Indeed, matcha teas are classified according to “grades”, Cérémonie being the highest quality. The higher the grade, the better quality the leaves that make up your matcha. An organic label will confirm the absence of pesticides in your drink. When it comes to color, bright green is a symbol of quality! We therefore opt for a beautiful electric green.
How to drink matcha to benefit from its virtues?
As matcha comes in powder form, we will not prepare it like tea: we will dissolve in hot water To keep his properties intact, it is best to use mineral water. Also pay attention to the temperature: we will pour it quivering. If it boils, it will unfortunately burn off the antioxidants.
Here are some simple tips to prepare matcha tea respecting the ritual gestures:
- Get a tea bowl.
- Place a little powder on it using a bamboo spatula called “chasaku”.
- Pour in pure water heated to 80°.
- Grab the traditional bamboo whisk, called a chasen, and stir vigorously in W-shaped motions with your wrist.
- When a layer of foam appears, the mixture is homogeneous and ready to be enjoyed. Your choice, plain or sweet!
A good example to follow? The Japanese people who drink matcha during the traditional tea ceremony. This ritual combines tasting and meditation. During the four hours that the ceremony lasts, the master reproduces very codified movements, inviting silence and concentration. During the ceremony, its guests savor both the tea and the happiness of living in the present moment (another very important virtue for the spirit!).
How to cook matcha tea?
Star of Japanese desserts, the matcha is more and more used in culinary recipes elsewhere in the world, particularly in pastry making. In addition to its many benefits, it indeed offers many advantages! Its vegetal flavor and delicate bitterness blend perfectly with sweet tastes. They bring them a touch of sophistication and originality, accentuated by this tone of green recognizable among a thousand that then take cakes, madeleines or even financiers! Want to taste the matcha green tea ? Take the plunge with our matcha box. The box contains a matcha box, a traditional bowl, a chasen bamboo whisk and a chasaku spatula. The complete kit for preparing tea following the ritual of the Land of the Rising Sun.