Many people today world over are making the switch from coffee or regular tea to matcha tea. But why should you make the switch? We are here to tell you why.
What is matcha tea?
Originating in China, Matcha is finely ground powder of specially grown and processed green tea leaves. It is prepared by whisking the powder in hot water. There is also traditional equipment used to prepare Matcha in many Asian countries; the process starts with a Chawan, the tea bowl, which is used to make and drink the Matcha. Also necessary is Chashaku, a traditional bamboo teaspoon used to scoop the Matcha into the Chawan.
Matcha can be prepared in several consistencies according to your liking such as Standard, Usucha (lighter consistency), Koicha ( thicker consistency).
Along with preparing it like regular tea, matcha powder can also be used in lattes, smoothies, chocolates, ice creams, doughnuts, pancakes, several baked goodies such as cookies, cakes, souffles, and muffins to add a twist to your typical desserts. These are available in cafes as well as can be prepared at home by yourself.
Here are some health benefits of Matcha:
- Matcha has more concentrated antioxidants than regular green tea. A single cup of matcha tea may be equivalent to about 3 cups of traditional green tea.
- Matcha is high in catechin ( a type of antioxidant) called EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate), which is believed to have cancer-fighting effects on the body.
- Drinking Matcha tea may help improve several of these risk factors, such as total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood sugar levels.
- Matcha contains high levels of L-theanine, which increases alpha waves in your brain. This helps your mind in relaxing and reducing stress. L-theanine is also responsible for improved moods, memory and concentration. L-theanine is also known to modify the effects of caffeine in your body, increasing alertness without causing the drowsiness often followed by coffee consumption.
- Matcha is great for your skin. It provides even skin tone, reduces acne and increases skin elasticity.
- For women suffering from PCOS (Polycystic ovary syndrome), Matcha tea reduces testosterone levels hence reducing symptoms like hirsutism, acne, menstrual irregularities and ovarian dysfunction.
- Matcha is rich in vitamin E hence its helps in scalp circulation and increases hair growth.
- Match helps in increasing the body’s metabolism hence helpful for people looking for weight loss. However, it is essential to note that the tea is to aid the process along with proper diet and regular exercise.
- Contains Vitamin A&C, potassium and calcium, hence boosting the body’s immune system.
- Some studies have shown that Matcha plays a vital role in reducing enzyme levels in the liver.
Safety and concerns:
Although Matcha has multiple health benefits, it is essential to note that it is highly concentrated in antioxidants and hence generally not recommended to drink more than 2 cups per day.