History of matcha tea
In Japanese, "cha" means tea, and "ma" means powder , so the word matcha literally translates to tea powder. It is believed that the first tea seeds were brought to Japan from China by the Zen monk Eisai. The tea ceremony celebrates the profound beauty of simple things, the extraordinary in the ordinary, and aims to bring all participants to the here and now.
Drinking matcha tea as the focal point of the tea ceremony was a perfect choice, as matcha stimulates presence of mind, alertness, and a state of calm and meditation at the same time.
These profound physiological benefits of matcha intuited by the sages of Japan are now proven by modern science, while more and more groundbreaking studies are being published on the health benefits of green tea.
Matcha tea is the youngest leaf of green tea ( Camellia sinensis) which is protected from the sun and then turned into dust. Matcha tea serves to increase metabolism, promoting weight loss, reduce stress, improve mood and memory, care for liver health, prevent premature aging and reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases.
These benefits are due to the fact that matcha tea contains large amounts of theanine, chlorophyll and caffeine, providing powerful antioxidant, thermogenic, stimulant, cardioprotective and hepatoprotective properties.
Benefits of matcha tea
Matcha tea is used in many parts of the world, its benefits position it as one of the most sold and consumed teas by people, since it is very popular on social networks and this makes many more people aware of its benefits:
Reduces stress and anxiety
Matcha contains an amino acid known as L-Theanine , which increases the activity of the brain's alpha waves related to the resting state. So it generates a feeling of relaxation and calm , which helps us reduce stress and anxiety.
Greater concentration
The calm and energy obtained, thanks to the combination of theine and caffeine , turn out to increase the attention and, consequently, the concentration . And unlike coffee, it doesn't make you nervous nor does it make you feel down or tired.
Great antioxidant power
It is a natural and very effective tea that contains a large amount of antioxidants . It helps eliminate toxins and dioxins from the body, to get the hormonal balance , and to reduce heavy metals that accumulate in the body. It even contributes positively to functioning of the immune system.
And, precisely, its antioxidant function also helps reduce cholesterol already balance sugar level in blood
Improves digestion
Tea contains a type of vitamin B3 , known as niacin, which helps reduce gastrointestinal problems and improves intestinal flora. Additionally, it contains a high level of fiber and tannins , properties that improve intestinal transit and they work as laxatives.
Burn calories
It is a variety that includes components that accelerate metabolism and therefore, more calories are burned. If you want to lose weight, it could be your great ally, as long as maintain a healthy lifestyle . On the other hand, it also allows you to lose weight because reduces fluids , thanks to the stimulation of kidney function.
Perfect skin
The appearance of your skin will improve noticeably if you start consuming matcha tea. This is possible thanks to the elimination of free radicals , which cause skin aging. In fact, it is a drink that helps reduce wrinkles . It even combats dark circles and prepares the skin for sun exposure.
Prevents cardiovascular diseases
Matcha has been linked to prevention and reduction of the risk of heart problems . There are still not enough studies on the matter, but it could be very beneficial, since cardiovascular diseases are one of the main causes of death in Spain.
Improve your oral health
Japanese tea contains fluorine and catechin , a polyphenolic antioxidant. Both properties help protect cells from free radicals, prevent the appearance of cavities and make the disappear bad breath.
Contributes to the disappearance of acne
Matcha green tea contributes to removal of skin fat and reduces the appearance of acne. Likewise, its power anti-inflammatory It allows you to calm reddened areas due to this cause.
Ally against cancer
It seems that it can also reduce the risk of suffering from cancer . Matcha tea contains polyphenols, catechins and other substances that can protect our cells from possible damage in the DNA. Thus, its consumption could decrease or be another method of preventing this disease.