‘Matcha’ is a term that has found its way in the hearts of many people lately and so has the subsequent terms like Matcha teas, lattes and even desserts. Such has been the tremendous popularity that nearly every hypermarket in the UAE now has a shelf dedicated to matcha products.

What is Matcha?

‘Matcha’ is something similar to green tea and like green tea, it comes from a plant known as ‘Camellia Sinensis’, which has a unique nutrient profile and is cultivated differently.

The technique: Matcha is cultivated normally in the initial stages but 20-30 days before harvest, the farmer covers the plant to avoid contact with direct sunlight. As a result, this increases chlorophyll production and boosts the amino content. This is why matcha (the powdered form of these leaves) is dark green.

Here are 7 benefits of Matcha that may entice you:

Antioxidant support – matcha is rich in an antioxidant known as ‘Catechins’ which helps in balancing free radicals, which cause cell damage.

Liver support – matcha helps in flushing out toxins and processing nutrients, thereby improving liver function

Brain support – Matcha packs much more caffeine than green tea and caffeine consumption has been linked to increased attention and enhanced memory as well.

Anti-Cancer Support – Although further research is needed to support this claim, certain studies have shown that green tea extract decreased tumor size and slowed down breast cancer in rats.   Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) in matcha has shown potent anti-cancer properties.

Heart Support – Matcha, which has a similar nutrient profile as Green Tea has shown considerable benefit against bad cholesterol as well as triglycerides.

Healthy Weight support – We all know how beneficial green tea is for weight loss. Matcha, being similar to green tea can be included with a healthy diet to promote weight loss. Take a look at some studies here.

Matcha and Green tea are similar but since the former is extracted from an entire leaf, it is richer in terms of antioxidant.

Disclaimer: This blog is not a medical journal and people dealing with any ailments or issues should seek consultation from a certified physician only!