The History And Benefits Of Matcha Tea

Matcha tea has been around for centuries, but only recently has it hit mainstream America, allowing you to learn about its wonderful health benefits. However, you may be wondering what makes this tea so special. In short, it is the whole leaf that makes this tea unique. Unlike other teas, you are consuming the entire tea leaf, which contains abundant nutrients you can't get from other teas. Here's a closer look at the history and benefits of matcha tea.

What Is Matcha?

Matcha tea is a variety of green tea. It is cultivated in Japan and has been used for centuries in traditional Japanese tea ceremonies. Matcha is made from finely ground leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant, often called the tea plant, and offers many health benefits.

Where Does Matcha Come From?

Matcha originates from Japan. Legend states that Shennong, the legendary Chinese Emperor of Agriculture, was the first to discover matcha in 2737 B.C.E. as he was tasting herbs in search of medicinal elixirs.

Zen Buddhist monks later used matcha during their meditation rituals. Today, matcha is produced in several countries, including China, Japan, and Taiwan. However, the highest quality matcha is produced in Japan, which has an ideal climate for growing the lush, green tea plants.

What Is Ceremonial-Grade Matcha?

Ceremonial-grade matcha is one of the highest grades of matcha available, and it is reserved for special occasions such as tea ceremonies or festivals. This type of matcha has a sweet taste with a smooth texture and vibrant green color. Ceremonial-grade matcha also contains higher amounts of antioxidants than other grades due to its growing process and harvesting methods.

What Are the Benefits of Ceremonial-Grade Matcha?

Matcha is packed with health-promoting antioxidants and polyphenols and contains more antioxidants than regular green tea. Additionally, Healthline reports that matcha tea can lower your risk of heart disease and aid in weight loss.

How Is Match Used?

Matcha can be used in a variety of ways, including drinking it straight as a traditional Japanese tea ceremony or adding it to lattes, smoothies, desserts, or even savory dishes like soups or sauces. In addition to being enjoyed as a hot or cold beverage, some people also use this green powder topically in face masks or body scrubs for its antioxidant properties.

When it comes to green teas, matcha stands out from the rest thanks to its unique flavor profile and multiple health benefits. With its rich history dating back centuries, this green tea has become popular due to its distinct taste and countless health benefits. Whether you enjoy drinking ceremonial-grade matcha as part of a traditional Japanese tea ceremony or simply enjoy adding it to your favorite recipes, matcha truly is a versatile tea.

For more information, contact a company like Rikumo.