
I recently did a post on the benefits of Green Tea now it is time for me to tell you a little about Macha.
Matcha is a type of green tea made by taking young tea leaves and grinding them into a bright green powder. The powder is then whisked with hot water. This is different from regular green tea, where the leaves are infused in water, then removed. Drinking brewed green tea “is a bit like boiling spinach, throwing away the spinach and just drinking the water,” says Louise Cheadle, co-author of The Book of Matcha and co-owner of the tea company teapigs. “You will get some of the nutrients, but you’re throwing away the best bit.” With matcha, you’re drinking the whole tea leaves.
“The finest matcha comes from Japan, where it has been grown for centuries and forms part of the traditional Japanese tea ceremony,” she adds.
The macha leaves are grown on green tea bushes in the shade. The reason they are grown in the shade is that it increases the chlorophyll content in the leaves which keeps them that bright green colour.
One cup of Matcha has the same amount of antioxidants to 10 cups of brewed green tea.
Matcha tea contains a unique, potent class of antioxidant known as catechins, which aren’t found in other foods. In particular, the catechin EGCg provides potent cancer-fighting properties, improved mental clarity and detoxification
It is a rich source of vitamins A, C, E.K and vitamin B complex
Matcha tea contains trace minerals including selenium, chromium, zinc, and magnesium. weThis green tea has 137 times more antioxidants than regular green tea.

Provides Relaxation
This tea provides a calming effect on the body. L-theanine, a unique amino acid present in this green tea, possesses anti-anxiolytic properties, which assists in boosting alpha waves in the brain. These alpha waves enhance mood, encourage relaxation, induce a profound feeling of mental clarity, and help achieve an alert state of mind.
Boosts energy
Matcha contains a healthy form of caffeine, not to be mistaken with the one present in regular coffee. This form of caffeine known as theophylline maintains energy levels without any harsh effects
Weight Loss
Catechins present in matcha leads to a reduction in body fat. It also boosts metabolism which further leads to decrease in body fat mass.
Prevents Infections
The EGCG in matcha helps to fight off any fungal or bacterial infections.
Improves Gastrointestinal Function
Matcha tea is useful for treating gastrointestinal disorders. A research study conducted in this field has revealed that consumption of this tea stimulates the faecal excretion. It also helps the body to get rid of harmful chemicals and toxins.

Matcha is a healthy green tea with multi-dimensional benefits, but it is better not to consume it in excess because of the following:
Caffeine content: Matcha tea contains some amount of caffeine which may trigger allergic reactions. These reactions may include diarrhea, cardiac arrhythmia, and irritable bowel syndrome. Caffeine can also cause drug interactions basis the amount consumed. If you are new to matcha and are unaware of its sensitivities, then it is always advisable to ensure natural vigilance while trying it for the first time.
Lead: Matcha plant can absorb lead from the soil. Even organic matcha may contain some amount of lead. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid excess intake of this tea.
During Pregnancy and Lactation: Prior to considering matcha tea for therapeutic purposes, an expert medical opinion would always help to better understand its effects especially during special conditions such as pregnancy and lactation.
Culinary Uses
Apart from healthy gains, matcha is widely popular as an ingredient in a range of food items. It is used to add flavour to a variety of confectionary items and drinks like:
Chocolates
Cakes
Candies
Cookies
Green tea ice-creams
Smoothies
Milkshakes
Lattes
Alcoholic beverages