Matcha is an antioxidant rich superfood made from ground green tea leaves that has taken the health and wellness industry by storm. The consumption of matcha dates as far back as 7th century China where green tea leaves were harvested, roasted and pulverised to form a powder that was mixed with hot water. Today, the green tea plants used to make the powder are grown in the shade – a practice implemented by Japanese tea planters which stimulates an increase in chlorophyll levels. Available in everything from lattes to ice cream, the powder has reached cult status in the Western world in the last year.
There are a surprising number of health and nutritional benefits associated with matcha powder, for starters it contains 137 times more antioxidants than regularly brewed green tea. (Its antioxidant content also makes it good for your skin.)
- One cup of matcha tea contains the same nutritional value as 10 cups of green tea
- It contains the amino acid L-theanine which has a relaxing effect on the brain and reduces anxiety
- Matcha contains polyphenols which are known to prevent wrinkles and aging
- Reduces inflammation
- Boosts the immune system
- Lowers cholesterol
- Increases metabolism
- Aids weight loss
When buying matcha powder be sure to select quality product from a reputable manufacturer. High quality matcha is a vibrant green in colour. It pays to avoid flavoured powders and blends as these usually contain milk powder and added sugar. A number of restaurants and cafes in Dubai have matcha products on their menus including The Sum of Us who offer matcha lattes, Comptoir 102 who make their own matcha ice cream and Japanese restaurant Yamanote Atelier who offer refreshing iced matcha lattes.
