History of Matcha

Kit Humbarger

Managing Editor

What is matcha?

Matcha is a vivid green, concentrated powder made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis tea plant. It tends to have a distinct flavor that is sweeter and smoother than other green teas. The plant is grown in a shady environment, which boosts the concentration of phytochemicals in the leaves. These provide several health benefits to the consumer, including increased concentration and alertness, improved insulin sensitivity, lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and anti-inflammatory effects.  

History: 

The history of matcha can be traced back to China in the 7th-10th centuries. The Tang Dynasty would steam the tea leaves and form them into bricks, making them easier to transport and trade. The bricks were then roasted and ground into a fine powder that was mixed with water to create matcha. 

In the 12th century, a Buddhist monk brought matcha tea seeds to Japan. He established a practice by which the perfect preparation of tea became a method of honoring beauty found in the flawed world. He called this practice “the way of tea.” 

Traditionally, the matcha powder is mixed with boiling water and whisked with a bamboo brush. Instead of the tea leaves being strained out like other teas, matcha leaves remain suspended in the water. 

Best matcha spots in South Bay:

Hi Fi Espresso

Good Boy Bob’s

Bread & Espresso

Sidecar Donuts

Benefits: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/7-benefits-of-matcha-tea 

https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/matcha-a-look-at-possible-health-benefits

Matcha is a vivid green, concentrated powder made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis tea plant. It is found most commonly in Japan and China, and tends to have a distinct flavor that is sweeter and smoother than other green teas.

Matcha is a type of green tea. It is grown in the shade, which has the effect of boosting the amount of certain phytochemicals (plant chemicals that offer a range of potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory effects), antioxidants, and other ingredients it contains compared to other types of green tea.

Caffeine levels:

• Green tea: 23 milligrams (mg) to 49 mg caffeine
• Matcha: 38 mg to 89 mg caffeine
• Coffee: 100 mg to 120 mg caffeine

• A meta-analysis published in the European Journal of Nutrition found that antioxidants called catechins found in green tea help lower blood pressure and LDL (“bad”) cholesterol levels. Rutin, a bioflavonoid found in matcha, also contributes to these effects.
• Polyphenols have anti-inflammatory effects.
• The amino acid L-theanine, found in matcha, has been associated with improved concentration and alertness.
• Antioxidants and polyphenols may help improve insulin sensitivity.

• Whisk into hot water for matcha tea, or into warm or hot milk to make a matcha latte (about 1 teaspoon of matcha per cup of liquid).
• Blend it into a fruit smoothie.
• Use it in salad dressing.
• Add it to cereal, oatmeal, or yogurt.
• Sprinkle on plain popcorn.
• Add it to baked goods like cookies, brownies, or cupcakes for a pop of color and flavor.