Where does matcha tea come from?
Traditionally enjoyed in Asia, particularly in Japan, matcha tea is a beverage prized for its numerous benefits.
Find out more about the origins of matcha!
Presented as a jade-green powder, matcha is the result of grinding Camellia Sinensis leaves. This plant grows at high altitude in southern Japan, sheltered from sun and pollution. Exceptionally rich in antioxidants and chlorophyll, the leaves are ground into a very fine powder of which 100% of the properties are consumed. That is why matcha tea has a higher antioxidant potency than its green tea cousins!
How to prepare matcha?
Hot water, 1 to 2 g of Kusmi Tea organic matcha, whisk vigorously for a few moments with a chasen, and you're all set! Those with a sweeter tooth can add a dash of milk. Be careful with the water temperature, however: it should not exceed 80°C, otherwise you risk damaging the leaves, diminishing their benefits, or making the drink too bitter. As for brewing time, it is generally recommended to whisk for 1 minute.
Various recipes exist to enjoy this wonderful green powder; discover our chai matcha latte recipe, delicious hot or iced!
Find out more about preparing matcha tea!
Matcha and its benefits
Matcha tea is one of the few green teas where the whole leaves are consumed. Being fully ingested, they release all their properties for enhanced benefits and pleasure.
Drinking green tea, including matcha, may:
- Facilitate the elimination of waste by the body thanks to its draining properties.
- Boost vitality and provide a good dose of energy by reducing fatigue.
- Rich in catechins, particularly EGCG, this fine green tea powder boosts metabolism and increases the body's energy expenditure.
- Does matcha tea aid weight loss? Thanks to its fat-burning properties, it is the ultimate slimming ally!
- Soothe! Yes, just like green tea, matcha contains an amino acid called L-theanine. This molecule is thought to affect stress and anxiety levels. This is why matcha is classified as a natural booster rather than a stimulant like coffee. With matcha, say goodbye to the spike of jitteriness that often comes with a cup of coffee.
- Finally, this green tea powder is also highly concentrated in antioxidants (EGCG). Naturally present in our diet, antioxidants protect our body over the long term by fighting the action of free radicals and the development of certain diseases. They are also believed to have an impact on premature cell ageing and strengthening our immune defences!
In short, matcha strengthens the body's immune defences. You will feel more energised to take on the day!
The side effects of caffeine on the body
As you will have gathered, just as coffee can cause certain side effects if consumed in excessive quantities, the same is true for the tea family! And matcha is no exception to the rule. Here are the side effects that can be triggered by caffeine if consumed excessively:
- Headaches
- Insomnia and anxiety
- Stomach ache and constipation
To prevent the side effects of matcha tea and make the most of your favourite drink's benefits, Kusmi tea shares a few tips with you.
Opting for moderate consumption
Like any beverage containing caffeine, a moderate intake of matcha tea is recommended. Everyone has a different tolerance to theine/caffeine. Recommended amounts may therefore not suit your specific situation. If in doubt, seek medical advice.
It is advisable not to exceed 2 to 3 cups of matcha per day, to avoid the potential side effects mentioned above.
Leaving time between cups and meals
It is generally recommended to enjoy your cup of tea 2 hours before or after your meal. That way, you can be sure the tea will not impact your iron levels.
It is advisable not to exceed 2 to 3 cups of matcha per day, to avoid the potential side effects mentioned above.
Does matcha tea affect the body's absorption of iron?
Like all teas, matcha can affect the body's ability to absorb iron. This primarily concerns non-haem iron.
- Haem iron is found in animal-based foods: meat, fish, seafood…
- Non-haem iron comes from plant-based foods: legumes, cereals, vegetables, nuts and seeds, tofu…
Does matcha lower iron levels?
The quality of your matcha tea
To better appreciate this drink and enjoy its benefits, choose a high-quality matcha tea. An organic matcha will guarantee exceptional taste, ecological values and a pure composition. Indeed, the organic certification ensures numerous quality controls throughout tea production and preparation! Is the powder a vibrant, intense green? Then you cannot go wrong!
Kusmi Tea, an organic matcha made in France
At Kusmi Tea, we offer high-quality organic matcha made in Normandy for a true moment of well-being. Available loose or in tins, our teas are grown using sustainable, responsible agricultural practices.
Convinced? We invite you to taste our organic matcha tea powder straight from Japan; you will not be able to do without it! During harvest, we ensure that only the very best leaves are selected.
Enjoyable at any time of day, matcha tea is a genuine source of benefits. However, in excessive quantities, it may present side effects for your health. The key? At Kusmi Tea, we recommend keeping your consumption moderate and listening to your body, as we do not all have the same tolerance to caffeine.