Matcha. Beneficial effects on health, appearance and well-being

Matcha is nothing but powdered green tea. This Japanese drink exhibits a number of beneficial properties for our body. Why is it worth drinking matcha? Read the article and find out!

Ceremonial matcha has been used in tea ceremonies since the 12th century, which in time became the basis for the creation of the Chado philosophy, known as the Way of Tea. For traditional ceremonies, matcha from young leaves of the highest quality is used. The Chado philosophy combines tea brewing with the rituals of Buddhism. Drinking matcha was thought to aid in meditation while contributing to more effective thinking.

Properties of matcha

Matcha is a powerful antioxidant that reduces the effects of free radicals. These in turn contribute to the development of heart, eye, brain, skin diseases and cancer. Uncontrolled formation of free radicals is accelerated by stress, poor nutrition and polluted air. The antioxidants in matcha help restore balance to the body, improve the immune system and slow down the aging process

In addition, matcha exhibits:

• relaxing effects – L-theanine released after 8 minutes of brewing matcha has relaxing and stress-reducing effects. It reduces the feeling of anxiety and helps to maintain a sober mind;
• beneficial effect on cognitive processes – L-theanine contributes to maintenance of normal levels of serotonin and dopamine in the body. The concentration of these substances influences mobilization for work, quality of sleep and general feeling of satisfaction;
• green tea stimulant – matcha has stimulating properties, which makes it a great alternative to yerba mate and coffee. A cup of tea provides as much caffeine as a cup of coffee. However, matcha gives you energy slowly, so you do not feel its sudden drop;
• slimming effect – matcha contains a compound called EGCG, which improves metabolism. In addition, studies show that tea drinkers lost significantly more weight than those who did not. Of course, drinking tea alone will not help us lose weight. The drink should be combined with a balanced diet and physical activity;
• helps eliminate chronic diseases – matcha as a source of antioxidants and antioxidant substances prevents the development of hypertension or diabetes. Drinking it prevents heart disease and cancer. The effects of matcha are 10 times stronger than those of regular green tea

How to prepare matcha?

To prepare matcha you will need a vessel called matchawan. Another element is the chashaku, a spoon made of bamboo, which is used to put the product. You will also need a bamboo broom, which is used to whisk the tea, and a sieve through which you sift the matcha. You can replace any of these items with tools you find in your kitchen.

Pour a level teaspoon of matcha into the kettle and pour about 150-200 ml of water at a temperature of 70-80 degrees Celsius. Take care that the water is not boiling. Immediately after pouring the tea, stir the drink vigorously using a broom. Stir until the powder dissolves and a foam forms on the surface.

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