Matcha! Matcha! Matcha!
April 2, 2024
Writer: Jacqueline Presser
Editor: Talya Appelbaum
Every café menu seems to feature one prominent green-colored drink: matcha! But what exactly is matcha, and what are its health benefits? Lately, I've found myself drawn to matcha, buying it daily as a coffee addict seeking alternatives, which is why I want to learn more about it.
Matcha is a green tea derived from plants grown through a precise and controlled process. It originates from whole, powdered tea leaves of Camellia sinensis, the same plant responsible for producing white, green, black, and oolong teas. Matcha owes its distinctive savory flavor and antioxidant properties to traditional Chinese growing techniques, which involve shading and tarping the tea fields. This shading process is crucial as it contributes to the unique balance of flavors between catechins, compounds responsible for bitterness and astringency, and the sweeter amino acid L-Theanine.
Amino acids are essential for the body's proper functioning and are the building blocks of proteins. Since matcha involves consuming the entire leaf, it allows these beneficial elements to concentrate within the leaf. Unlike many other teas, matcha isn't simply a decoction but a much more robust infusion. A decoction is "a method of extraction by boiling herbal or plant material (which may include stems, roots, bark, and rhizomes) to dissolve the chemicals of the material" (Google).
Now, to touch on the five health benefits of Matcha, according to Forbes,
Cardiovascular Health: Matcha is rich in a micronutrient called epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), known for its positive health effects. Studies have shown that EGCG exhibits various therapeutic properties, including anti-atherosclerosis, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects, which support the healthy functioning of the cardiovascular system.
Rich in Antioxidants: Matcha contains a plethora of antioxidants that help remove harmful molecules from the body, reducing oxidative stress. Both matcha and green tea contain high levels of substances like catechins, which have antioxidant properties that can reduce inflammation and prevent conditions like tooth decay.
Cancer-Fighting Effects: Several components of matcha have been studied for their potential anti-cancer properties. Cohort studies have shown a correlation between green tea consumption and a lower risk of certain cancers, such as stomach cancer. Additionally, compounds like catechins and gallic acid found in matcha have been explored for their ability to enhance the effectiveness of chemotherapy treatments.
Glowing Skin: Matcha powder and green teas have been used for improving skin health. Compounds like caffeine and EGCG found in matcha can be beneficial for promoting skin regeneration, wound healing, and treating various skin conditions. Matcha can also be used topically as a face mask to reduce redness and give the skin a healthy glow.
In summary, matcha is not just a trendy beverage but also a powerhouse of health benefits, ranging from cardiovascular support to cancer prevention and skincare. Incorporating matcha into your daily routine can be a fun, flavorful, and nutritious way to boost your overall well-being.