Matcha is a high-quality green tea that is cultivated from the nutrient rich leaves of the Camellia sinensis plants. Matcha is meticulously grown, shade-covered in the last two weeks prior to its picking, harvested, steamed, stemmed, and de-vined before being ground into a fine powder and stored in a light-proof container to preserve its rich color and nutrient powers. Matcha has been consumed and highly regarded in Asian cultures for thousands of years and it is totally becoming a health elixir now in the west too. You can make the earthy tasting matcha into tea, cold-brews, or lattes, or throw it into chia seed pudding, overnight oats, baked goods and smoothies.

• Matcha’s use in Japan is dated back to 1191, when Zen Monk Eisai introduced the seeds to the temple grounds in Kyoto. Eisai used matcha in Zen Philosophy to aid in meditation and provide presence of mind.
• Ancient Japanese warriors, known as Samurai, were thought to drink matcha before battles due to its energizing properties.
• Matcha is very high in antioxidants, particularly catechins – one of the most potent and beneficial antioxidant noted to help prevent oxidative stress and free radical damage.
• Researchers at Tufts University tested the Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity of Matcha and found it’s antioxidant capacity to be through the roof. Matcha, per gram, is rated at 1300 units while other antioxidant rich foods like pomegranates are only 105 units per gram. Bam!
  Matcha has a unique amino acid, known as L-Theanine, which is found almost exclusively in the tea plant. L-Theanine may help reduce stress, lower blood pressure, improve memory, and reduce symptoms of PMS.
• Matcha provides a host of nutrients including potassium, Vitamins A & C, iron, protein, and calcium.

Vegukate Tips:

When it comes to Matcha, look for good quality, organic products from a reputable company. Usually, the pricier the better. You can purchase Matcha powder at health food stores and online.