Matcha green tea powder vs green tea bags

A variety of sites claim that just one cup of matcha tea is equivalent to 10 cups of regular steeped green tea. The health benefits of matcha, powdered green tea, exceeds regular loose leaf green tea. When you drink matcha you are ingesting the whole leaf, not just the brewed water. The antioxidants, i.e. catechins - EGCG, inside the powdered leaves, are clinically proven to be incredibly beneficial to our health. - MissOlive





matcha green tea powder vs green tea bags Using a mg catechin/g of dry leaf comparison, results indicate that the concentration of epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) available from drinking matcha is 137 times greater than the amount of EGCG available from China Green Tips green tea, and at least three times higher than the largest literature value for other green teas. — Weiss, David J., and Christopher R. Anderton. "Determination of catechins in matcha green tea"

Matcha: Vitamins and Minerals

Matcha is rich in:

calcium

chromium

manganese

potassium

selenium

Vitamin A

Vitamin C

Vitamin E

zinc

抹茶, "fine Powder Tea"

Origin: Japan

Color: Vivid Green

Contains caffeine: Yes

Interesting Facts:

It takes approximately one hour to grind 30 grams of matcha

True matcha is made with ground tencha . Ground sencha is known as konacha and is not equivlant to matcha.

. Ground sencha is known as konacha and is not equivlant to matcha. Researchers found that the concentration of the EGCG (antioxidants) available from drinking matcha is up to 137 times greater than the amount of EGCG available from other green teas.

Matcha is rich in antioxidants, it contains a healthy variety of vitamins and minerals. missolive.hubpages.com

Matcha and Anti-Aging

Green Tea and Longevity

Green tea has powerful cancer fighting antioxidants, ingredients which improve memory, cognition, cardiovascular health and brain function. These issues affect life expectancy and overall longevity.

Is matcha better than green tea?

Yes! Matcha is very nutritious and holds an impressive ORAC score of over 1380. This high ORAC score demonstrates matcha's superior level of antioxidants, higher than blueberries and acai berries.



ORAC is a measure of antioxidant value. The USDA recommends 3,000- 5,000 ORAC units per day.

Studies have shown matcha to contain significant levels of:

Amino acids

Beta-carotine

Catechins

Complex polysaccharides

Flavonols

Gamma-amino butyric acid (GABA)

Saponin

Teanin

Vitamin A

Vitamin C

Vitamin E

Impressively, matcha has been identified to be:

An antioxidant

Antibacterial

Antiviral

and possibly anti-fungal

Studies have confirmed consuming matcha can:

control high blood pressure

control cholesterol

be used as a natural diuretic

reduce the risk of diabetes

reduce physical and psychological stress

improve mood and alertness

boost the immune system

reduce bad breath

prevent tumor growth

reduce strokes by 21%

promotes the oxidation of fats

improves metabolism

stabilizes insulin

prevent influenza

prevent cataracts

prevent glaucoma

improves longevity by supporting anti-aging

What is matcha?

Matcha is a finely ground and powdered green tea. The tea used to create matcha is grown in the shaded misty mountains of Japan, this region receives very little direct sunlight. The proper growing and harvesting of matcha is what gives it its vivid green color and incredible health benefits.

Incidentally, matcha is commonly known for its use in the traditional Tea Ceremony.

The Japanese Tea Ceremony: Chanoyu The Japanese Tea Ceremony, known as Chanoyu, is a highly ritualized practice of drinking matcha tea. The Zen monks were the first to introduce matcha to Japan, and their influence is seen throughout the ceremony. Most notably, the emphasis of a calm mind, serene settings and awareness of nature.

How is matcha grown and harvested?

Matcha is made from tea leaves, which are shade-grown. A few weeks before harvesting, tea bushes are covered to further prevent direct sunlight. The lack of light slows down growth and turns the leaves an even darker shade of green (chlorophyll). This step is said to promote the production of amino acids. Once harvested the leaves remain shaded or are moved indoors and laid out flat to dry. The dried leaves will begin to crumble and become known as tencha.Tencha is stone ground to the fine, bright green, talc-like powder known as matcha. Matcha of the highest quality will be a VERY bright green. If the color is slightly brown, yellow or beige it is of poor quality and has oxidized – hence, losing all of its benefits.

Where can I find and buy matcha?

You will be pleased to find many matcha vendors on the internet. You can usually find it at whole food stores or Japanese markets.

NOTE; If it is in a tea bag it is NOT matcha. Matcha is a bright and vivid green powder. It is usually sold in small canisters.

Matcha Naturally Fights Cancer

Drinking matcha is a great way to naturally combat the production of cancer cells. missolive.hubpages.com

Flavonoids in Green Tea: Catechins

The major flavanoids in green tea are catechins, specifically:

epicatechin (EC)

epigallocatechin (EGC)

epicatechingallate (ECG)

epigallocatechingallate (EGCG)

Epigallocatechin Gallate: Tannins, Polyphenols, Anthocyanins and Flavonoids

According to the US National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health, Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG) is the most effective cancer chemopreventive polyphenol in green tea.Tannins, a catechin, are a naturally occurring plant polyphenol found in tea leaves. And anthocyanins are a type of flavonoid, which are a plant polyphenol.

Let me explain the importance of this with a brief glossary:

EGCG, a polyphenol that prevents cancer.

Polyphenol, an antioxidant. Nutritional consumption of polyphenols have shown the ability to prevent degenerative diseases, particularly cardiovascular diseases and cancers. This includes neurological diseases and diabetes.

Anthocyanins, an antioxidant with pigment. These are also known to be anti-inflammatory and anti-viral. Anthocyanins are especially helpful in the reduction of cardiovascular health problems, including hypertension and improvement of cholesterol levels.

Flavonoids, a plant metabolite. Dietary flavonoids functions as an antioxidant and free-radical scavenger. Flavonoids aid in cancer prevention, improves cardiovascular health and improves our immunity defenses.

Studies show matcha stops breast tumor growth.

Matcha, a powdered green tea, naturally contains EGCG, which has been proven to inhibit breast tumor growth and remove free radicals MissOlive.HubPages.com

Matcha: Chlorophyll and Detox

A Renowned Detoxifying Agent: Chlorophyll, the pigment which gives leaves their green color, helps to remove heavy metals and chemical toxins from the body. Matcha tea is a chlorophyll rich food. Its vivid green color is due to the growth and harvesting process, which supports the natural infusion of chlorophyll.

Catechin: EGCG and Breast Cancer

Catechin

EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate): is the catechin with the most potent cancer-fighting properties. 60% of the catechin content in matcha is EGCG. In a 2008 study conducted by researchers at the University of Mississippi, researchers found consuming EGCG significantly inhibited breast tumor growth in female mice. Researchers believe these findings can help lead to new therapies for the prevention and treatment of breast cancer in women.

Type 2 Diabetes and Metabolic Syndrome

The regular consumption of matcha and regular green tea have been shown to:

prevent insulin resistance

inhibit hyperglycemia

reduce the opportunity for developing metabolic syndrome

How? EGCG promotes an increase in insulin sensitivity and induces natural glucose absorption.

Matcha Reduces Renal Damage: Improves Fat Metabolism, Cholesterol and Glucose

Catechins and Fat Burning: “Daily consumption of tea containing 690 mg catechins for twelve weeks reduced body fat, which suggests that the ingestion of catechins might be useful in the prevention and improvement of lifestyle-related diseases, mainly obesity.” Dr. Joseph Axe

Matcha reduces fat: It has been reported the catechins in matcha are absorbed into the blood stream and promote fat metabolism in the liver.

It has been reported the catechins in matcha are absorbed into the blood stream and promote fat metabolism in the liver. Matcha reduces cholesterol and triglycerides: several studies have found a reduction of cholesterol levels and triglycerides with regular consumption of matcha.

several studies have found a reduction of cholesterol levels and triglycerides with regular consumption of matcha. Glucose: Matcha promotes a natural sensitivity to insulin and glucose levels.

Related Studies:

"Matcha treatment significantly lowered the glucose, triglyceride, and total cholesterol levels in the serum and liver, renal AGE levels, and the serum thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances levels." Yamabe, Noriko, et al. "Matcha, a powdered green tea, ameliorates the progression of renal and hepatic damage in type 2 diabetic OLETF rats."Journal of medicinal food 12.4 (2009): 714-721.



Matcha Improves Heart Health and Longevity

Matcha and green tea are proven to improve heart health and promote longevity. missolive.hubpages.com

Cardiovascular Diseases: Matcha and your heart

Studies have shown matcha can greatly improve cardiac muscle health and lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Matcha:

promotes a lower incidence of coronary artery disease

was shown to lower hypertension and reduces the chance of actually getting high blood pressure

supports health of blood vessel cells surrounding the heart

protected arteries against atheroscelrosis

consumption lowered total cholesterol levels, specifically harmful LDL levels





Drink 3 cups of matcha per day... According to the University of Maryland Medical Centre, population based clinical studies indicate that the antioxidant properties of green tea may help prevent artherosclerosis, particularly coronary artery diseases by 11 percent with consumption of three cups of green tea per day.

Matcha is Anti-viral

Stay ahead of the game and ward off nasty viruses. Yes, it really has been shown to inhibit HIV. missolive.hubpages.com

The Anti-Viral Effects of Matcha

H1N1, Influenza and the Common Cold: Studies have shown that the catechins in matcha can avert viral infections, this includes H1N1, influenza and the common cold.

Studies have shown that the catechins in matcha can avert viral infections, this includes H1N1, influenza and the common cold. HIV: Even more amazing, the EGCG in matcha inhibits HIV infection and replication of the virus in those already infected.

Even more amazing, the EGCG in matcha inhibits HIV infection and replication of the virus in those already infected. Staph Infection: Staphylococcus aureus infections are also inhibited due to the EGCG in matcha.

Tran, Jennifer. "Green Tea: A Potential Alternative Anti-Infectious Agent Catechins and Viral Infections." Advances in Anthropology 3.04 (2013): 198.

Matcha Stops Degenerative Diseases: Parkinson's and Alzheimer's

Drinking matcha and green tea now may greatly reduce your chances of getting Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease in your senior years. missolive.hubpages.com

Dopamine and Parkinson's

Think of dopamine as an effective messenger. Dopamine is responsible for transmitting signals in multiple regions of the brain. This communication is needed to produce smooth and intentional movement. The loss of dopamine produces abnormal signals within the brain and therefore causes impaired movement.

Promising studies show matcha may inhibit the development and progression of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson's diseases

Clinical studies are being continued in this area, but the various natural ingredients in matcha have already been shown to enhance current medications in the treatment of Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. Matcha also seems to reduce nerve degeneration and improve dopamine levels. One particular study showed the regular consumption of matcha reduced the incidence of Parkinson's by 10 fold.

Theanine increases dopamine levels

Theanine (Teanin)

Tea, the Camellia sinensis, is the only plant that makes the amino acid Theanine. Theanine is also known as Teanin or L-Theanine.

Theanine is also known as Teanin or L-Theanine. Theanine stimulates alpha brain waves, which are associated with a relaxed, but alert mental state. It helps relax the mind while also allowing one to focus on mental tasks. Which incidentally brings up another find. Monks drank matcha prior to long periods of fasting, prayer and meditation (1).

Controlled experiments have shown Theanine has a positive effect on the mind and improves memory by increasing dopamine levels. Also, the alpha brain waves increase 40 minutes after consuming Theanine, making this a great study drink for scholars and students alike.

Improve your Focus and Reduce Anxiety

Need a chill pill and some focus in your life? Drink matcha and green tea instead. You can learn quite a bit from the traditions of Zen monks. missolive.hubpages.com

Matcha and the Amino Acid L-Theanine: Calm Mental Alertness

Matcha naturally contains 5 times the L-Theanine than other teas. This amazing amino acid can naturally improve your mental alertness while also keeping you naturally relaxed. Plus, it may also improve your memory.

L-Theanine

L-Theanine: may help to reduce mental stress reactions.

Ross, Stephanie Maxine. "L-Theanine (Suntheanin): Effects of L-Theanine, an Amino Acid Derived From Camellia sinensis (Green Tea), on Stress Response Parameters." Holistic nursing practice 28.1 (2014): 65-68.





Improve Vision Health

Diabetes and Vision: Drinking matcha has been proven to naturally improve ocular health and lower the risk of diabetic retinopathy. missolive.hubpages

Green Tea: Diabetic Retinopathy

A recent study found the consumption of green tea protected the retina and reduced the opportunity for the development of diabetic retinopathy.

Silva, Kamila C., et al. "Green tea is neuroprotective in diabetic retinopathy."Investigative ophthalmology & visual science 54.2 (2013): 1325-1336. "Traditional Chinese medicine remains the best choice of herbal molecules mining for ocular remedies." Chu, Kai-On, and Chi-Pui Pang. "Herbal molecules in eye diseases." Taiwan Journal of Ophthalmology (2014).

Improve Skin Health

Skin Care from the inside out. The antioxidants and anti-inflammatory qualities of matcha have been proven to promote healthy and radiant skin. missolive.hubpages.com

Oral Care: Bad Breath and Dental Issues

Matcha is antibacterial: The regular consumption of matcha stops the opportunity for periodontal diseases by killing germs and reducing bad breath.

Matcha and Skin Care

Matcha and regular green tea has been shown to:

alleviate eczema

reduce acne breakouts

enhance sunscreen protection

act as an anti-inflammatory

reactivate epidermis cells (due to the EGCG)

In addition, the vitamins in matcha include Vitamins A, C and E, all of which are important in producing healthy cell turnover, the promotion of skin glow and the enhancement of skin brightening capabilities, all of which improve skin tone and radience.

Don't miss my article: 100 Matcha Recipes

100 matcha recipes! Recipes include everything from matcha eggnog, matcha cookies, matcha smoothies, matcha brownies to matcha martinis! read more

How to Make Matcha

This content is accurate and true to the best of the author’s knowledge and does not substitute for diagnosis, prognosis, treatment, prescription, and/or dietary advice from a licensed health professional. Drugs, supplements, and natural remedies may have dangerous side effects. If pregnant or nursing, consult with a qualified provider on an individual basis. Seek immediate help if you are experiencing a medical emergency.

© 2011 Marisa Hammond Olivares

CMN on September 21, 2019:

I’m very sensitive to caffeine. Does matcha green tea contain caffeine?

olive alfonso on January 18, 2019:

is it safe for lactating/breastfeeding mom

Luzb on May 05, 2016:

Great article with loads of important information, thanks! Can you please tell me which is best for a matcha latte: unsweetened almond milk or unsweetened soy milk? I drink soy but want to only use the best non dairy pairing for my matcha latte, thanks in advance!!

Marisa Hammond Olivares (author) from Texas on November 01, 2015:

alibaba442: Thank you for your concern. I listed myself as the 'source' of the graphic that I created. In the text I specify this information was gathered from 'studies'. Point well taken though. Sadly, many have not credited my research when copying my hub, verbatim, onto their various websites.

alibaba442 on October 22, 2015:

Dear Missolive, you cannot quote yourself as a source when talking about scientific evidence from trials or studies. for example, when writing:

H1N1, Influenza and the Common Cold: Studies have shown that the catechins in matcha can avert viral infections, this includes H1N1, influenza and the common cold.

you did not quote the study, but instead put yourself as the reference. I know it takes a long time to do the research, but I am sure many of your readers appreciate and read your articles in large part because of their factual integrity.

MM Del Rosario from NSW, Australia on July 06, 2015:

A lot of information here, I love green tea but never try the green tea powder. I have to find where I could buy matcha here in Sydney.

Marisa Hammond Olivares (author) from Texas on May 04, 2015:

Thank you!

Maharshi Rudra from India on May 04, 2015:

Really good...

Marisa Hammond Olivares (author) from Texas on July 25, 2014:

grosiramazonplus, yes, matcha can reduce cholesterol levels. I have been pleased to find multiple clinical studies that have supported this finding. Plus, matcha (and green tea) are proven to greatly improve cardiovascular health by strengthening artery walls and muscles.

Thank you very much for reading and for your question.

Grosir Amazon Plus from Indonesia on July 25, 2014:

can matcha lower my cholesterol level?

Marisa Hammond Olivares (author) from Texas on February 22, 2014:

JRScarbrough, this is wonderful news and a great testimony, thank you for sharing with us.

Marcy Goodfleisch, my local market does not carry it anymore and I ordered it straight from Maeden.com. I do hope you eventually give it a try. Glad to see you stopped by.

Marcy Goodfleisch from Planet Earth on January 16, 2014:

I need to look harder for this - haven't yet found it (but then again, I sometimes forget to look). Glad I saw this today - good reminder!

JRs from United States on December 22, 2013:

Yes I did, I have to say that I felt better all day. I seemed to get a healthy appetite after which proves to me that it does affect the metabolism positively. I think it could be used to help anyone in any situation. I'm on the slim side an so it affected my body to say I needed to eat. I also felt happier and not so flat. TY.

Marisa Hammond Olivares (author) from Texas on December 22, 2013:

JRScarbrough, did you give it a try? I hope you have and are enjoying the benefits. Thank you for reading and commenting.

EGamboa, I've never done an actual comparison of the two but they are both beneficial in their own right. I know masala chai is made with black tea and it has many wonderful health benefits. Matcha (powdered green tea) has been shown to deter cancer though.

Eileen Gamboa from West Palm Beach on December 17, 2013:

I do drink green tea every day, never heard of Matcha, but now I'll look for it. Do you know why green tea is better that black tea?

JRs from United States on December 14, 2013:

I think I'll try it. I need the energy! Thanks!

Marisa Hammond Olivares (author) from Texas on October 19, 2013:

Rusticliving, hi Lisa! OOPS! :) Thank you so much for coming by to read and comment. I greatly appreciate your shares too. This was one of my first hubs way back when. Gosh, how time passes us by! Stay happy and healthy - cheers!

Mel Carriere, hmmmmm, what an interesting reaction. Usually the theanine in matcha creates an alert but focused calmness. I guess we don't all react the same. Thank you for sharing how it affects you and for reading.

PaulSaint, I hope you have had the opportunity to try it and have reaped its amazing benefits.

habib, great to hear - thank YOU sialkot.

habib on October 18, 2013:

Yes, we now regularly add a spoonful of Matcha to our smoothies. We love the color, flavor and health benefits. Thanks again!

from sialkot.

PaulSaint on June 29, 2013:

I would definitely like to try this Matcha powered green tea. It has become a very popular drink due to its immensely powerful health benefits such as anti aging, weight loss, heart disease and cancer.

Mel Carriere from San Diego California on June 27, 2013:

For some reason, theanine always puts me to sleep. If it is supposed to stimulate dopamine why do you think this is the case. Great hub by the way!

Liz Rayen from California on June 26, 2013:

I can't believe I haven't commented on this hub! I KNOW I have shared it..well... I am so happy I came across it again since I have started to eliminate the coffee out of my life and bring in more healthier drinks such as the Matcha Tea. I am so grateful for the information you have gathered together regarding Matcha. Thanks for sharing your knowledge with us Marisa! ♥♥ Up and Shared.... again!

Marisa Hammond Olivares (author) from Texas on June 20, 2013:

Hi vespawoolf, wonderful news! I'm pleased to hear you are enjoying it. Have a wonderful and healthy summer.

Vespa Woolf from Peru, South America on June 17, 2013:

Yes, we now regularly add a spoonful of Matcha to our smoothies. We love the color, flavor and health benefits. Thanks again!

Marisa Hammond Olivares (author) from Texas on June 17, 2013:

lemonkerdz5, you hit the nail on the head. Matcha and other forms of green tea have been noted to extending longevity. Studies have shown frequent green tea drinkers in Japan are less likely to develop cancer and cardiovascular issues. Also, you asked if matcha can be used in desserts and it can. Matcha is used in creating a variety of candies, dessert and ice-cream. I do hope you have given it a try.

vespawolf, what a goldmine that gift was! Aren't the health benefits amazing? I'm wondering if you gave it a try. Thank you for reading and commenting, my apologies for my late response, somehow I missed the notifications on this hub. Peace.

Stove and Home, I prefer supplementing our diet with natural food sources and matcha has always impressed me. I do hope you have given it a try. Thank you for reading.

sarahshuihan, you are quite welcome. Thank you for commenting.

vertbualit, thank you so very much for your sweet comment.

Monis Mas, yes, the flavor of matcha can be strong. I have to tone down the volume if I make it as a standard tea, but I have no problem if I add it to smoothies. Maybe you'll be able to acquire a taste for it at some point. I like things now that I didn't before. :)

Agaltom on May 19, 2013:

Great work! I know matcha has so many health benefits, but I just can't take the flavor. I tried :-(

Abdus Salam from Bangladesh on May 18, 2013:

Excellent hub about Matcha Powder Green Tea. Thanks for posting this topic!!

Sarah from USA on January 11, 2013:

Thank you for writing this! I've always wondered about matcha tea, and might have to give this a try!

Stove And Home on January 11, 2013:

I think I better get some of this. Americans are so low in certain vitamins and minerals. This looks like it would be of help!

Vespa Woolf from Peru, South America on January 11, 2013:

I had no idea that matcha was such a nutritional goldmine. We have two bagfuls that a Japanese friend gave us. I had just left it in the kitchen pantry and didn't think much more about it. We'll do as you suggested and add it to our morning smoothies. Thanks!

lemonkerdz from LIMA, PERU on January 11, 2013:

Very interesting article missolive, i have seen this around in the asian shops in Lima but it never really drew my attention. It looks like it could be the key to why the japanese race seem so much healthier than many other cultures. Do you know if this could be used in desserts and whether it would still maintain its health properties?

Marisa Hammond Olivares (author) from Texas on November 29, 2012:

lara 7, great question, my understanding is the matcha being imported from Japan is being tested for radiation. If it has radiation it cannot be imported. Based on my research, it appears this concern has been cleared since the tsunami crisis.

DDE, I'm glad to have introduced this very healthy product to you. Matcha is a great way to add green tea to your diet. Thank you for reading and commenting.

Devika Primić from Dubrovnik, Croatia on November 22, 2012:

Something unusual to me thanks for improving my knowledge on this topic

lara on November 22, 2012:

Is radioactivity in Japan a concern for food including tea?

Marisa Hammond Olivares (author) from Texas on October 23, 2012:

CyberShelley, glad you noticed the update. I appreciate you great comment. I have great faith in matcha.

Winsome, gotcha, back atcha! :)

Fiddleman, I do hope you enjoy it.

Fiddleman on October 21, 2012:

Very interesting read and until now I have never heard of this tea. I will have to get me some and give it a try.

Winsome from Southern California by way of Texas on October 21, 2012:

Hi MO,

Matcha. Gotcha.

=: )

Shelley Watson on October 17, 2012:

Great that you updated - superb information, will change to Matcha as the benefits are phenomenol. Up, interesting and useful.

Marisa Hammond Olivares (author) from Texas on September 24, 2012:

DDE, very glad to share the health benefits of matcha with you. It really is a wonderful tea. Thanks for stopping by to read and comment.

Devika Primić from Dubrovnik, Croatia on September 23, 2012:

Never knew of this info. Thanks for sharing a well-informed Hub

Marisa Hammond Olivares (author) from Texas on September 08, 2012:

Author's Update: This article has been revised and updated with new research information, addition of health benefits, updated matcha ingredients, added photographs and videos. 9/8/2012.

Thank you, MissOlive

Marisa Hammond Olivares (author) from Texas on September 04, 2012:

AudreyHowitt, thank you! Glad to see you.

Audrey Howitt from California on September 02, 2012:

Love this article. You have done a great job researching and writing it!

Marisa Hammond Olivares (author) from Texas on September 02, 2012:

Ryan, thank you for that info. I'll see if I can find the research study to back up your interesting claim. So much for having matcha lattes if milk depletes the benefits. I'm looking forward to seeing what I can find out.

Ryan on August 29, 2012:

It's worth noting that at least one study (I don't have a reference but you can find the study in JSTOR if you have access) has confirmed that the casein in milk and milk products greatly inhibits the absorption of EGCG, thus vitiating many of the healthy benefits of this expensive tea. If you're consuming the product for your heath, it's best to use no milk products, or else use soy, rice, or almond milk as a substitute (no casein in these milk substitutes!).

Marisa Hammond Olivares (author) from Texas on August 17, 2012:

Jesse, glad to hear you are enjoying matcha and are experiencing wonderful results. I'll put about 1/2 a tsp in my bottle water every now and then. Works great. Thank you for sharing your story with us.

Jesse on August 15, 2012:

I currently am using match tea for fat loss and increased metabolism. This stuff is amazing. I have 1 tea spoon with cold water straight after a workout. I don't like the taste but do it for the benefits. I feel great after consuming. I definitely recommend it. I bought 100grams for $25 and 100grams goes a very long way.

Marisa Hammond Olivares (author) from Texas on August 11, 2012:

cclitgirl, Cyndi, your comment led me to do some research and I had a hard time finding anything on matcha and pregnancy. I did find one article that states matcha and/or green tea is not recommended during conception or the first trimester. The site did not offer any sources though. I skimmed through the journals and didn't have much luck. The caffeine may be a concern though. I suggest consulting with your doctor and using your best judgement. Aside from that, matcha has many wonderful health benefits.

Dreamhowl, I am glad to know I have introduced this product to you. I do hope you enjoy it. I absolutely love it. Makes me feel great and it has been a wonderful substitute to my morning coffee.

Hezekiah, you are lucky to enjoy this tea in its homeland. Glad to know you learned a bit more about this wonderful tea.

Hezekiah from Japan on August 09, 2012:

I live in Japan and my wife makes Green tea Maccha or Ryokucha everyday, or even Mugicha -Wheat Tea (better for the summer). It didn't realy know about the health benefits though. Thanks.

Jessica Peri from United States on August 09, 2012:

I had no idea about this! I might have to get my hands on some in the future. I love green tea, and I love the health benefits. Thanks for the info!

Cynthia Calhoun from Western NC on August 09, 2012:

I came back to say: I need to get me some matcha!! One question, though. What about if you're pregnant? Is it still safe to drink? Green tea - like two cups a day - is supposedly the max for pregnant women. Do you know what it would be for this? I can't wait to try it!

Marisa Hammond Olivares (author) from Texas on June 20, 2012:

beingwell, wonderful! Matcha's benefits are great either iced or hot. It is nice to have an option - isn't it? Thank you for taking the time to read and comment - I appreciate it.

beingwell from Bangkok on June 17, 2012:

I love matcha tea. I prefer iced tea over the hot ones. Nice hub. Thanks for the excellent info about matcha.

Marisa Hammond Olivares (author) from Texas on June 17, 2012:

Squeesh, I'm very glad to share this info with you. My daughter and I are big fans of matcha. Thank you for stopping by to read and comment.

Squeesh from United States on June 14, 2012:

Amazing Article, I thought I was the only one who drank this type of green tea! :) Always love to read about healthy topics, Thanks for sharing!

Marisa Hammond Olivares (author) from Texas on May 30, 2012:

Thank you Alok :)

Alok Kumar Tekriwal on May 29, 2012:

Well,

Amazing stuff, really interesting, thanks

Marisa Hammond Olivares (author) from Texas on May 15, 2012:

HawaiiHeart - Assuming you are in Hawaii, I bet matcha and pineapple would be an interesting blend in a tropical smoothie :)

Glad to share the benefits - it's great stuff.

HawaiiHeart from Hawaii on May 15, 2012:

Matcha is very popular here. I haven't tried it yet, but have heard so much about the health benefits - and this hub is a very comprehensive article. Thanks for sharing!

Marisa Hammond Olivares (author) from Texas on May 10, 2012:

Neil, if you love green tea I believe you'll enjoy the powerful benefits and flavor of matcha. I do hope you are able to locate some in your area. Thank you for reading.

Neil Sperling from Port Dover Ontario Canada on May 10, 2012:

missolive - Thanks for this info - I love green tea but have never heard of matcha... now to find a local supplier. Thanks

Marisa Hammond Olivares (author) from Texas on May 03, 2012:

Thank you Sebastian, I appreciate you sharing your experience with matcha. Your grandmother sounds like she was a lovely lady - smart too.

sebastian kanazawa on May 03, 2012:

I am a 45 years male japanese living and working in Shanghai. I am glad to see more and more europeans discovering the benefits of matcha. I am a big fan of matcha since I was little and have definitely benefits greatly fdrom it. I was often told how much younger i look for my age and I remember my grandmother telling me how matcha can keep us from premature ageing, she was almost wrinkle free at the age of 85 and she swear by her daily matcha ritual everyday without fail. She would often put some left over tea under and around the eye or even pat them all over the face and maybe it woirk, she was free of wrinkles and freckles. My mother on the other hand hates matcha and she develop wrinkles and freckles at 40s. I think it works and hope you all benefits from matcha BUT PLEASE TRY TO DRINK ORGANIC MATCHA, it might be more expensive but it worth the extra. Whenever i can i would buy from www.mercola.com or http://www.yuuki-cha.com, both supply certified organio matcha. Beside green tea, our families drank a lot of white tea too but its hard to buy organic white tea especially those available from China, they claim to be organic but I dont trust them as the Chinese have constant food posoning and exceeding pesticide limits in their produce especially tea.Having lived in China for 10 years, i have never buy chinese made matcha casue i dont think they are reliable.

Marisa Hammond Olivares (author) from Texas on May 02, 2012:

Nana, then yes, our measuring teaspoon is definitely larger than the spoon you have described. Thank you for sharing.

Nana on May 02, 2012:

No, it' s a tiny spoon, smaller then a baby spoon.

Marisa Hammond Olivares (author) from Texas on May 01, 2012:

Hi Nana, I'm not sure if your matcha teaspoon would be equivalent to our measuring spoons. I'm curious.

Nana on May 01, 2012:

I have been using honey in mine, taste much better. I have also been using the small tea spoon that came in the tea box, I'm thinking that everyone else is using a regular teaspoon which is bigger?

Marisa Hammond Olivares (author) from Texas on April 17, 2012:

hectordang - there are several benefits of matcha. I hope you are enjoying this wonderful tea. Thank you for reading :)

hectordang from New York on April 08, 2012:

Great hub! It something simple and easy to do, but it seems to have a lot of benefits! I will try putting it into my water bottle every day and see what happens!

Marisa Hammond Olivares (author) from Texas on April 07, 2012:

Hi Sinea - I'm a coffee drinker myself and it took me a while to find the right amount of matcha for my water. I also have a hub on a variety of matcha recipes - if you are interested. It's great in smoothies :)

Thank you for the votes and comment. It is always nice to see you have stopped by to read :)

Sinea Pies from Northeastern United States on April 07, 2012:

Missolive, this is really great information. I have to develop a taste for tea. I don't mind it at all but I love coffee. Hard to break away. I'm so glad you shared a way to BUY this kind of green tea since the local supermarket is unlikely to have it.

Voted up and useful...as all of your hubs are!

Marisa Hammond Olivares (author) from Texas on March 16, 2012:

barbergirl28 - matcha is so good for us. The easiest way for me to have it is in my smoothies. Sometimes I just sprinkle 1/2 tsp into my water bottle and go about my day. The benefits are undeniable. I hope you give it a try. Thank you for reading and commenting. I appreciate your support. :)

Stacy Harris from Hemet, Ca on March 16, 2012:

Ok... I need to try this for sure. It definitely has some good benefits, and I have never been a fan of green tea... so maybe with the recipes, I will be able to enjoy the benefits of green tea without actually drinking it!

Marisa Hammond Olivares (author) from Texas on March 11, 2012:

Marie-Renee, I'm glad you found both of my matcha hubs. The benefits are incredible and I do hope you give it a try. Thank you for reading and taking the time to comment.

ishwaryaa22, That is a wonderful testimony for matcha. Isn't it great? I always feel better when I have matcha and I'm glad you have felt it as well. I want to thank you for reading and commenting. I also want to thank you for sharing and voting. It is greatly appreciated.

Ishwaryaa Dhandapani from Chennai, India on March 11, 2012:

Well-written hub on matcha. Actually I have not heard of matcha before till now thanks to you. I knew only green tea. I decided to give matcha a try after reading many health benefits of matcha listed by you! I see why monks introduced matcha to Japan and then it slowly spread across the world! It calms the mind! Keep up the wonderful work of introduction to matcha! Well-done!

Thanks for SHARING! Useful. Voted up and socially shared.

Renee on March 07, 2012:

Really haven't tried this but it sure looks interesting. Gotta say though that it's unbelievable they have lots of recipes with matcha...sorry read 100 Match recipes first and came here. Voted up.

Marisa Hammond Olivares (author) from Texas on March 07, 2012:

rajan Jolly - thank you! I'm honored you think so. Matcha is wonderful and I am happy my daughter encouraged me to research it. Thank you for the link :)

katrinasui - I'm glad you came by to read and learn of these wonderful benefits. Thank you for your comment.

katrinasui on February 28, 2012:

I am a big fan of green tea but i didn't know about Matcha green tea powder before reading this hub.

Rajan Singh Jolly from From Mumbai, presently in Jalandhar, INDIA. on February 28, 2012:

Marisa,this is an excellent hub on Matcha green tea. Very well researched and excellently written and very well presented. Other green teas do not match up to the health benefits of matcha.

I am including a link to this hub in my hub on health benefits of tea. It will be published today.

Voted up, awesome and useful.

Marisa Hammond Olivares (author) from Texas on February 26, 2012:

stessily - I have yet to try homemade matcha ice cream, but I did see a quickie recipe where matcha was blended with vanilla ice cream and it seems like a pretty good idea. Maybe frozen vanilla yogurt would be good too! Thank you for taking the time to read and comment. I appreciate it.

Jennifer Essary - Yes, the green tea in tea bags is different from matcha. Matcha is much more powerful and created differently. Thank you for the comment, votes and the sharing! :)

Jennifer Essary from Idaho on February 25, 2012:

I'm happy I read your Hub because I didn't know the Matcha found in tea bags doesn't have many benefits. Voted up, useful, and shared.

stessily on February 24, 2012:

missolive, Green tea ice cream is high on my Must-Try List of Foods. So far I have not located it locally, but I'll persevere.

As a tea and smoothie lover, I appreciate matcha. And, as you pointed out in your hub on 100 Matcha recipes, matcha is versatile and satisfying in many culinary reincarnations and guises.

Thank you for highlighting this unique ingredient.

Marisa Hammond Olivares (author) from Texas on February 14, 2012:

molometer - Thank you! Green is good :)

Rochelle Frank - I'm thrilled you found it! Have fun with the recipes.

vespawoolf - I have yet to try the matcha ice cream. I hope to make it someday. You are very lucky to have such a generous friend. Now you can try other recipes as well. Thank you for reading and commenting.

Vespa Woolf from Peru, South America on February 14, 2012:

A Japanese friend gave me a large package of matcha. I had used it to make green tea ice cream, but other than that hadn't touched it. I had no idea it provides so many health benefits. Now I'll be sure to drink it!

Rochelle Frank from California Gold Country on February 13, 2012:

I've been looking for this-- and I also printed out your recipes. Thanks.

molometer Michael on February 13, 2012:

Anything that green has got to be good for you. The plants do rather well on it so why not us humans.

Hope you hit the 1000.

Marisa Hammond Olivares (author) from Texas on February 13, 2012:

It is sooooo good for you! You write many wonderful recipes. You might be interested in seeing the sister hub that goes with this one - 100 Matcha Recipes.

Thank you for reading and commenting - I appreciate it!

Marisa Hammond Olivares (author) from Texas on February 13, 2012:

Sharyn's Slant - Thank you! I LOVE researching healthy foods. My daughter was the inspiration behind matcha. She drinks it DAILY. I am thrilled that you will send this over to your sis and I am extra happy to know this has been pinned in pinterest - thank you very much for you support! :)

Victoria Lynn from Arkansas, USA on February 13, 2012:

I've never heard of this, but I think I'll get some!!! Voted up and very useful! Thanks, Missolive!

Sharon Smith from Northeast Ohio USA on February 13, 2012:

Wow MO ~ I'm glad I took the time to read this. The research you put in to this is awesome. My lil sister and her entire family drink tea. She is very much into what is healthy for her four boys. I am definitely sending her this link. And also I believe I am going to add a new board to Pinterest too called HEALTHY OPTIONS. Thank you so much!

Sharyn

Marisa Hammond Olivares (author) from Texas on February 12, 2012:

workingmomwm - Hi! My daughter turned me on to matcha and I'm glad she did. Great stuff! I like that I can use it different ways. She likes it the traditional way; as a hot tea. I'd rather mix it up with different recipes. I'm glad to find a fellow smoothie fan. Thank you for coming by :)

Mishael Austin Witty from Kentucky, USA on February 12, 2012:

I have actually not ever heard of matcha before. It sounds great. I think I'm going to have to try it. Now checking out your smoothie recipe. I love smoothies!

Marisa Hammond Olivares (author) from Texas on February 11, 2012:

Hi Mekenzie - The health benefits of matcha are surely impressive. I am very glad that you have found this hub. If taste is an issue you might want to include it in your smoothies - that's what I do. I did include a link to matcha recipes in the hub. I hope you find a combination that suits your taste.

I'm happy to share my research and information with you. Thanks again, MissOlive

Marisa Hammond Olivares (author) from Texas on February 11, 2012:

sholland10 - It is great for helping the mind remain calm while also focusing. I hope you begin to drink matcha more than once a year. Thank you for reading, commenting, voting and sharing.

poohgramma - I really wish I could find more information for you, but a quick search right now didn't turn anything up. I will continue my research and see what I might find. I do know this, the packaging for the matcha I drink does not have anything written in regard to interactions. I'll contact you with any findings. I do thank you for coming by.

Susan Ream from Michigan on February 11, 2012:

Miss Olive, I am glad to have found this hub. I am really into whole foods and anything that contributes to optimum health. I have tried a few green drinks that I could not handle .. Yuck, but I keep searching because I understand the huge health benefits of greens. This hub is full of great information and reasons to drink Matcha tea.

Thanks you for doing the research and sharing it!

Blessings!

Mekenzie

Poohgranma from On the edge on February 11, 2012:

Very interesting and informative article. I was wondering if there are any warnings about interaction with pharmaceutical medications listed on the box or canister of this tea. I am interested but have to be careful with what I consume.

Susan Holland from Southwest Missouri on February 11, 2012:

MissOlive, I drink Matcha tea when I visit my brother in NYC each year. He is a big believer. I love it. Also, I take L-Theanine for anxiety and to help the "wheel stop spinning" when I go to bed. I am a believer. I love tea and need to get some Matcha! Wonderful information!

Votes and shared! :-)

Marisa Hammond Olivares (author) from Texas on February 08, 2012:

Simplicityme - I'm glad to hear you are a matcha drinker. I love the stuff and after doing the research for this hub how could I not be more convinced about its benefits? I felt it was important to support the claims with the related clinical studies. I'm glad you have acknowledged their inclusion.

I hope you get a chance to see my hub on 100 matcha recipes. I'd also like to suggest you check in on hubber, SanneL. She writes interesting tea hubs.

I appreciate you stopping by to read and comment. :)

Simplicityme on February 08, 2012:

Wow! this is a great Hub. I've been drinking Matcha for about four months now and I have been looking for the right information about this tea. I really like the way you have supported your writing. You provided precise scientific researches. Thanks very much for a great article, and thanks for the links.

Yvonne Spence from UK on January 16, 2012:

I had very heard of matcha before I saw your hubs. I thought at first it was the same as green mate tea, but I see that’s not the case. I have never seen it in the UK, but maybe that’s because I haven’t been looking. I have massive sensitivity to caffeine, so I’d only probably only be able to have a little of it. But you’ve inspired me to have a look next time I’m at my health food store! Thanks for the hub.

Marisa Hammond Olivares (author) from Texas on December 30, 2011:

cclitgirl - healthy foods are great! I'm a big fan of green tea, but matcha is simply a much better form to have it in.

jeyaramd - matcha powder is the entire leaf and it is consumed, which gives you the full benefits of the nutritious ingredients. There is just so much proof in the links I provided that I had to share this wonderful tea with everyone. :)

ITcoach - always glad to share the knowledge with you IT. Thank you for your votes