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Tea ceremonies -

Matcha is traditionally used in Japanese tea ceremonies, where it is prepared and served with great care and attention to detail.

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History -

A Buddhist monk, Myoan Eisai, is credited with first bringing matcha to Japan from China in the 1100s. He brought it back from his travels to establish "the way of tea" practice.

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Flavor -

Matcha tea has a unique flavor that is both sweet and bitter, with a slightly grassy taste.

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Quality -

The quality of matcha can vary depending on the grade and origin of the tea leaves.

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Quality -

The highest quality matcha is made from the youngest and most tender leaves, which are hand-picked and stone-ground into a fine powder.

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More expensive -

Matcha is typically more expensive than other types of tea due to the labor-intensive process of growing and harvesting the tea leaves.

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Why matcha? -

Matcha is grown in the shade, forcing the plant to make xenohormetins.

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Active compounds -

When we ingest these active compounds, they increase our body's survival defenses that fight against aging.

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Longevity -

Since ancient times, tea has been recognized for its impact on longevity. The Chinese Taoist philosopher Lao Tzu said, "Tea is the elixir of life."

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Longevity -

Matcha is believed to slow down aging by inhibiting the mutation of DNA and by aiding the restoration of damaged DNA.

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L-theanine -

Eisai found that drinking matcha improved his Zen meditation sessions, as it created a state of calm alertness. We now know this is due to the L-theanine and caffeine in matcha.

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L-theanine -

L-theanine is an amino acid that promotes relaxation and reduces stress. Stress is known to contribute to premature aging.

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Caffeine -

The caffeine in matcha can help increase energy and focus. Caffeine is used in skincare products to promote skin elasticity.

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Antioxidants -

Matcha is high in antioxidants, which support the body to protect itself from damage caused by free radicals.

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Antioxidants -

Matcha contains as many antioxidants as 10 cups of regular green tea.

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Immunity -

Antioxidants are known to boost the immune system, making it easier for the body to fight infections.

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Catechins -

Catechins found in matcha and their antioxidant properties help prevent damage to the surface of the skin to promote anti-aging.

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Chlorophyll -

Matcha is also high in chlorophyll, the pigment that gives the tea leaves their distinctive, bright green color.

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Chlorophyll -

Chlorophyll is high in vitamins A, C, and E. The actions of these vitamins can benefit skin health.

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Anti-inflammatory -

The EGCG antioxidant in matcha has strong anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties.

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Joint health -

The EGCG, anti-inflammatory benefits of matcha can improve joint health and reduce knee pain.

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Topical use -

You can make a face mask at home using matcha powder, to assist with reducing any inflammation and to help even skin tone.

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Brain health -

In 2014, scientists at the University of Basel found green teas can improve cognitive function and working memory, making matcha a great choice for brain health.

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Digestion -

Green teas like matcha are shown to improve digestion and to support healthy bacterial growth in the intestine.

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Metabolism -

While metabolism might dip naturally with age, matcha increases thermogenesis. This is the rate that the body burns calories.

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Preparation -

Take 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of matcha powder and add it to a bowl. Whisk the powder and the liquid together, to avoid clumps forming in the liquid.

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Matcha latte -

You can drink matcha hot or cold. You can add milk to make a matcha latte, a coffee replacement that still provides a caffeine boost.

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Food grade matcha -

It's easy to add matcha to smoothies, cakes, and deserts. The possibilities are endless!

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Packaging -

Matcha is often sold in small tins or packets to preserve its freshness, helping to maintain its anti-aging benefits.

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Storage -

Matcha should be stored in a cool, dry place away from light and moisture to preserve the quality of the powder.

Sources: (Britannica) (Well+Good) (The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition) (iHerb) (Body Ecology) (The Healthy Chef)

See also: 10 natural superfood powders to add to your diet today

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