Matcha tea: we discover an incredible health elixir

Matcha tea

Matcha tea is the Japanese tea par excellence, it is, in fact, a green tea grown only in Japan, in particular climatic conditions and with ancient traditional methods. Weeks before harvesting, the matcha plants are covered so that they have the right degree of shade in order to increase the chlorophyll content which gives this tea its typical green colour and maintain the integrity of the amino acids contained in them.

After harvesting, the leaves are steamed in order to protect them from oxidation and to preserve their nutritional and organoleptic qualities as much as possible, dried and ground in stone mills so that they reach the classic consistency of a fine powder.

Also known as the elixir of Buddhist monks, this drink has been used in the Japanese tea ceremony for over 900 years.

Matcha tea: properties and benefits

Matcha green tea boasts countless properties. Let's see them in detail:

  • Contains a large number of antioxidants. Antioxidants are precious molecules that protect the tissues of our body from ageing and chronic diseases as they are able to prevent chemical reactions that lead to the formation of harmful compounds. Matcha tea contains an important class of antioxidants, catechins, including epigallocatechin gallate (EGCg), a molecule which has been recognized as having anti-cancer properties;
  • Promotes weight loss. It is practically calorie-free and helps accelerate metabolism as it promotes thermogenesis;
  • Enhance memory and concentration. Like other types of green tea, it contains theanine, an amino acid that has the ability to reduce physical and mental stress. By acting on neurotransmitters it is able to induce a state of relaxation. Furthermore, theanine would counteract the harmful effects of the caffeine contained in this tea;
  • It strengthens the immune system. Thanks to the presence of numerous antioxidants and polyphenols, it helps to strengthen the immune system. It also contains iron, potassium, vitamins A and C and calcium, minerals and vitamins useful for the proper functioning of the immune system;
  • Detoxifying. The chlorophyll present in matcha tea is a powerful detoxifying agent that has a draining effect;
  • Contributes to the well-being of the cardiovascular system. Epigallocatechin gallate helps keep blood cholesterol levels low and reduces the accumulation of lipids in the endothelium of the vessels;
  • It counteracts type 2 diabetes. Scientific studies have shown that the consumption of matcha tea can improve the sensitivity of cells to the action of insulin and glucose tolerance;
  • Beneficial for the gastrointestinal system. It facilitates the elimination of faeces, thus helping to cleanse the colon by promoting the elimination of toxins that can accumulate there. It is also an effective remedy for gastric hyperacidity;
  • It defends against infections. Epigallocatechin gallate has been shown to inhibit the growth of many pathogenic bacteria and viruses, including Staphylococcus, hepatitis B and C virus and herpes virus.

Nutritional values ​​of matcha green tea

In addition to containing a significant amount of antioxidants (about 100 times higher than that found in the same amount of other types of green tea), matcha tea is an excellent source of vitamin A, B vitamins, vitamin C, vitamin E and vitamin K. It also contains a fair amount of minerals.

Matcha tea: contraindications

This extraordinary tea contains high doses of caffeine, so insensitive individuals it could cause not only a state of excitement but also episodes of diarrhoea, cardiac arrhythmias and intestinal disorders. Particular caution should be exercised during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

How to make matcha tea

First, it would be better to buy good quality and preferably organic matcha tea. This tea is prepared by suspension and not by infusion, so after putting the powdered tea in a cup, hot water is added (the ideal temperature is about 80 ° C) and mixed with a special tool called chasen. , a sort of bamboo whip, which mixes everything homogeneously.

In fact, to prepare a perfect matcha tea traditionally you should also use a specific bamboo spoon, which measures the right amount to use, and a special ceramic or terracotta cup. Matcha tea can be bought in bio-shops, herbalists or specialized online stores.

Matcha tea is widely used in the preparation of many recipes, such as cookies, chocolates, ice cream and various sweets. It is also often used as a natural dye due to its bright green colour.

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