One of the most popular types of green teas in the market is the Matcha green tea powder, which is believed to have a high nutritional value. This tea has been used by the Japanese for a long time now due to its wonderful taste as well as the benefits it offers. Below are some important factors about this green tea.
The History of Matcha Green Tea Powder
Matcha green tea powder was first developed in China in the Song Dynasty and was loved by the Buddhists, who used it in a number of ceremonies. In 1191 AD, it was brought to Japan by Eisai. The Japanese loved this tea and incorporated it into their tea ceremonies. Over the years Japan has drank this green tea and the practice has spread to various parts of the world. In the present, people can get the powder at their grocers as well as internet stores.
The Production of Matcha Green Tea Powder
This tea is grown only in Japan at a location by the Yahagi River, which has an environment and a misty micro climate conducive for its growing. Some weeks before the tea is harvested, the farmers cover them using tarp or bamboo mats, thus reducing the amount of sunlight reaching these plants. By so doing, they increase the amount of chlorophyll in the plants, causing them to turn dark green- the distinct color of the matcha green tea powder.
After the harvesting, the green leaves are steamed before they are dried. The next process involves sorting for grades, followed by de-stemming and deveining. At this phase, the leaves are known as tencha, which is then ground to become matcha. One thing that differentiates the tea grade matcha green tea powder from the industrial version is that their leaves are ground on a stone mill so as to achieve the fine texture it comes with.
Ingredients in the Matcha Green Tea powder
Matcha green tea powder comes with a variety of ingredients which are known to have different health benefits. They include:
- Antioxidants – These are known to slow down the aging process, and they are in higher concentration in this green tea as compared to other products such as fruits and vegetables.
- Catechins – These are found only in green teas and are known to come with properties to fight cancer.
- Chlorophyll – Found in higher concentration in Matcha green tea powder, this ingredient helps in getting rid of toxins from the body. This is an effective process because the powder is fully ingested unlike with the tealeaves that are discarded after infusion.
- Amino Acids – Matcha green tea powder comes with L-theanine amino acid which is known to have calming effects on the drinker. This is one of the factors that have made this tea popular among the Buddhists because they help them during meditation.
The presence
of all these ingredients in the matcha green tea powder helps in increasing the energy levels of the users. This makes it a great option for those who want to lose weight because increased energy levels help them burn more calories.