Where does matcha tea come from?
Matcha tea powder is appreciated for its intense flavour and stimulating effect, thanks to the caffeine contained in the leaves. Long before tea existed, its leaves were used as medicine.
Matcha comes from Japan
The first matcha green tea seeds are said to have been introduced to Japan in 1191 by the Zen monk Eisai. He is said to have planted them in the garden of a Buddhist temple in Kyoto. He was the first person to grind green tea leaves after harvesting them and consume them as a hot drink. The resulting green powder then gave rise to the Japanese tea ceremony. Today, matcha is one of the teas most consumed by the Japanese!
The tea ceremony
In Japan's Zen philosophy, the tea ceremony aims to celebrate the beauty of the world and simple things. For these purist monks, matcha, which is green tea powder, lies at the heart of this ceremony. It stimulates the mind while bringing calm through meditation. Today, the benefits of green tea are recognised worldwide.
Harvesting the matcha plant
The tea plant leaves from the first blooms are picked by hand, one by one. They grow in the shade to increase their chlorophyll content. This gives matcha its intense green colour.
After this oxidation stage, the leaves are air-dried before being ground between two granite millstones. A jade green powder is thus obtained.
The health benefits of matcha green tea
Sometimes nicknamed the prince of green teas, matcha is a powerful antioxidant. Made up of catechins, it may help combat the development of certain illnesses and premature cell ageing. Thanks to its caffeine content, it is also known to help fight fatigue.
After Buddhists, samurai and Asian emperors, it is now Westerners' turn to enjoy this beneficial drink.
As Japanese tradition dictates, matcha tea must be mixed with hot water before being consumed. However, the water temperature is very important to avoid degrading the powder and ensure it retains all its benefits. We recommend not exceeding 80°C water.
The Japanese origin of matcha: a guarantee of quality
Good matcha tea comes from Japan! Indeed, the country ensures strict quality controls. Of course, matcha teas from elsewhere do exist, but their quality is less reliable.
To find out more: Our buying guide for purchasing quality matcha
Kusmi Tea, organic matcha made in France
Matcha is carefully selected by our Kusmi experts to offer you quality tea. All our tea ranges are made in Normandy and organic certified to meet our commitments to eco-responsible agriculture. Choose your flavoured organic matcha according to your tastes and desires!
The tea plant originated in China, but the matcha tea plant was brought to Japan by a Zen master. The tea plant grows at altitude, and its leaves and buds are picked by hand. Matcha is distinctive in being a ground green tea, retaining all its nutrients and aromas. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation and savour an organic Kusmi Tea matcha.
At Kusmi, we cannot recommend enough that you try this drink with its many health benefits. An alternative to coffee or more traditional tea, it will delight even the most refined and delicate palates. To ensure you choose quality matcha tea, opt for Japanese origin.