What makes Matcha what it is? Here is a brief overview of the powerful components within Matcha Green tea and matcha benefits.
L-Theanine – L-Theanine is a unique amino acid found almost exclusively in the tea plant (Camellia sinensis) and is the primary amino acid component of green tea. The shading of the tea plants before harvest, increases the L-Theanine content, giving Matcha its characteristically pleasant and sweet flavor.
The effects of L-Theanine are truly amazing. Theanine benefits the entire central nervous system. It has the unique ability to stimulate the production of alpha waves in the brain; a state otherwise mostly achieved by meditation and characterized by a calm alertness and relaxed mental clarity. This is one reason why the Zen monks appreciated a good cup of Matcha before their "lengthy" meditation sessions.
The relaxing effects of L-Theanine act antagonistically against the stimulatory effects of matcha caffeine on the nervous system thus smoothing the body's reaction and leading to an experience of dynamic bliss. Clinical studies have also shown L-Theanine to reduce stress, to lower blood pressure, to improve memory and learning abilities, to diminish PMS symptoms and to have a mild antioxidant activity. L-Theanine is fast acting, the desirable effects are generally noticeable within the first 30 minutes after enjoying a Matcha green tea latte and can last for up to 6 hours. Basically theanine benefitsmatcha absorption in the bodyso rather than take theanine as a supplement why not drink your theanine naturally in a whole food such as a matcha latte!
Thermogenics – Green tea has long been studied as a weight loss aid. Research now indicates that drinking green tea can boost metabolism by 35-40%, thus increasing fat burning capacity without any adverse side effects.
Anti-oxidants – The catechins found in green tea are some of the most powerful natural anti-oxidants, thereby having a strong anti-aging effect on the body. The anti-oxidants in green tea are 100 times stronger than Vitamin C, and 25 times stronger than Vitamin E.
Matcha green tea contains 70 times the anti-oxidant capacity of orange juice, and 9 times the beta carotene of spinach.
Chorophyll – Matcha contains extremely high levels of Chlorophyll, thus the brilliant emerald green color. Chlorophyll is one of the most powerful blood detoxifyers, as well as supporting a healthy blood alkalinity.
Polyphenols and Catechins – These phytonutrients are quickly becoming known as the most potent cancer fighting substances known to man. Matcha green tea contains the highest levels of these precious derivatives.
Adaptogenics – Green tea is an "adaptogen" which means it supports the adrenal glands by lowering levels of the "stress" hormone Cortisol. Matcha is definitely considered to be one of the top foods for an adrenal fatigue diet!
Blood Pressure Lowering Catechins – Green Tea contains specific catechins that can lower blood pressure by preventing contraction of blood vessels through inhibition of Angiotensin.
Cholesterol Lowering agents – Green tea has been shown to decrease the levels of LDL ('bad") cholesterol while having no effect on HDL ("good") cholesterol.
Blood Sugar Stabilizers – The polysaccharides in green tea can protect against insulin spikes thus stabilizing blood sugar levels.
Anti-microbials – Green tea contains potent anti-biotics and anti-virals, lending itself to the prevention and treatment of many common ailments including flu, cold, food poisoning etc.
These anti-microbial catechins also prevent tooth decay and gum disease, as well as sweetening bad breath by balancing the gut microflora.
Now you have more reasons to start your day with a matcha green tea latte!