Health Benefits of Matcha Tea

Properties of Matcha Tea

Now, moving on to Matcha health properties! Matcha is a finely ground powder extracted from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant — the same plant used to produce black, green, and white teas. However, the cultivation and harvesting methods differ. Farmers grow the plants in shade for about three weeks before harvest, increasing their chlorophyll levels, which gives them that bright green colour. The shading process also increases the production of other beneficial components, L-theanine and catechins, contributing to Matcha's exceptional health benefits.

The key ingredients of Matcha tea include the following —

• Catechins: These antioxidants combat free radicals and promote overall health.

• L-Theanine: This amino acid is responsible for maintaining calmness in individuals and improving concentration.

• Caffeine: Although Matcha tea contains caffeine, its action is neutralised by L-theanine, resulting in an attentive but calm state.

• Chlorophyll: This is primarily a detoxifying agent that cleanses the body of toxins.

Reasons Why You Should Drink Matcha Tea

Listed below are 7 significant advantages of consuming Matcha tea —

Rich in Antioxidants

Matcha tea contains an extremely high level of antioxidants, including a catechin called EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate). It is estimated that in Matcha, the amount of EGCG can be up to 137 times higher compared to other forms of green tea. Antioxidants in Matcha tea neutralise the harmful effects of free radicals, which can cause cellular damage in the body. This tea enhances cardiovascular health, is anti-cancerous, and aids weight loss.

2. Improves Brain Function

Matcha tea has a perfect balance of caffeine and L-theanine that enhance cognition. Caffeine increases alertness, whereas L-theanine causes relaxation, preventing a feeling of drowsiness. This naturally improves memory, quickens reaction time, and heightens focus. Matcha tea improves one’s attention and ability to perform everyday tasks considerably.

3. Aids in Metabolism and Weight Loss

Matcha tea possesses catechins that enhance thermogenesis (i.e., the rate of calorie burning in the body) and fat oxidation. Drinking Matcha tea regularly, when combined with nutritious food and exercising, aids weight loss by maintaining the body’s capability to burn fat.

4. Helps Maintain Heart Health

Matcha tea supports cardiovascular health by minimising triglycerides and bad cholesterol (or LDL) levels. In the process, antioxidants in Matcha tea prevent the oxidation of LDL cholesterol, one of the primary causes of heart disease. Regular consumption of Matcha tea lowers the risk of stroke and heart attack. Hence, it positively affects the cholesterol profile and arterial health.

5. Detoxifies the Body

As Matcha leaves are rich in chlorophyll, considered a powerful detoxifier, this tea helps flush out toxins from the body. This way, the liver may function well to help filter heavy metals and toxins from the bloodstream. It also regenerates skin cell growth due to its natural detoxification process.

6. Boosts Immunity

Matcha contains various vitamins and minerals that promote immunity, including vitamins A, C, and E, potassium, and iron. High levels of antioxidants combat bacteria and viruses, while EGCG, an antimicrobial compound, prevents infection. Drinking Matcha regularly may help build resistance to illnesses and speed up recovery.

7. Reduces Stress and Fosters Relaxation

One of the salient Matcha tea benefits is its calming effect. L-theanine increases activity in the alpha waves of the brain, which are associated with states of relaxation and clearness of mind. Matcha tea allows you to be alert but still keeps you calm as compared to any other beverage containing caffeine causing anxiety or jitters.