Have you heard of matcha tea before? If not no worries, I’ll walk you through a little bit of its history and tell you why you should try it, too. Ohh and I’ll give you my fav matcha latte recipe to get you started (scroll down for the matcha latte recipe).

Matcha is a powdered green tea that is steeped in the culture and tradition of China and Japan. In old times, it was served only to great samurai warriors and royalty. It is made from the finest tea leaves. Before being harvested, selected tea bushes are sheltered from the sun for about three weeks. Moreover, this increases the nutrient-dense chlorophyll content of the tea and creates its lovely bright green color.

Prior to being harvested, selected tea bushes are sheltered from the sun for about three weeks. This increases the nutrient-dense chlorophyll content of the tea and creates its lovely bright green color. The finest leaves are then chosen and finely ground. Further, the result of such consummate efforts is the fine brilliant green tea powder with a unique and captivating flavor.

People are enthralled by the flavor of matcha green tea. It tastes fantastic just as it is; it can be added to smoothies or green juices or try my fav matcha latte recipe below. So much better than coffee to start your day.

And the tea is not only flavorful; it is packed with health-promoting nutrients, too.

Health Benefits of Matcha Green Tea

#1 It is rich in antioxidants

Are you health-conscious? If you are, you must be eating a lot of leafy greens, fresh fruits, and dark chocolate to ensure that you get your fill of antioxidants. Antioxidants are powerful, naturally occurring substances that protect the body from the free radicals that are responsible for diseases and early aging.

Add matcha green tea to your diet and you strengthen your immune system, acquire protection from the ill-effects of UV radiation, and feel and look younger, to boot.

#2 It cleanses the body of toxins

Depriving the tea leaves of sunlight during the last few weeks before harvest enables the plants to increase their production of chlorophyll. This results in giving matcha green tea not only an amazingly vibrant shade of green but also the power to rid the body of toxins.

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#3 It is heart-friendly

Research shows that matcha green tea is rich in catechins — substances that lower bad cholesterol, prevent hypertension, and reduce the risk of stroke.

#4 It calms the mind and spirit

Matcha contains L-theanine, an amino acid responsible for inducing a relaxed state of mind without the accompanying drowsiness usually associated with “downers.” If you take matcha green tea regularly, you can fight stress and anxiety while remaining active and alert.

#5 It improves concentration and memory

The L-theanine found in matcha green tea helps the body produce serotonin and dopamine. These chemicals are responsible for enhancing mood, promoting excellent focus, and improving memory.

#6 It increases stamina

If you have to work long hours, join a marathon, or climb a mountain, matcha green tea is the best beverage for you. The noble samurais of medieval Japan are said to take matcha green tea to prepare for battle. The tea’s unique blend of nutrients gives you endurance, stamina, and energy.

#7 It helps in weight management

Matcha green tea increases metabolism. It helps you burn the calories you take in. It basically does what diet pills do — but without the ill effects of affecting heart rate and blood pressure.

Furthermore, it is not surprising that many people have developed the habit of drinking this kind of green tea. You get to enjoy not only a refreshing and delicious drink but the many health benefits of matcha green tea, as well. The tea can be a bit more pricey than the normal green tea leaves, but it is much more concentrated and will provide your body with more nutrients a cup. Isn’t that worth that bit extra?

Scroll down for my favorite matcha latte recipe.