WHY MATCHA

Ive known organic Matcha green tea for about 2 years now, and I love it! Heres why

WHERE DID IT COME FROM

Matcha has been used in tea ceremonies throughout the ages. It has been held in high regard as a ceremonial beverage because of its unique effects and nutritional density.

It originated around the time Sen-no-Rikyu was alive and derived the four basic principles of the tea ceremony

– Harmony (wa)
– Respect (kei)
– Purity (sei)
– Tranquillity (jaku)

Matcha is an ancient tea that has been favored by the Zen Monks and the Samurai class of China and Japan for centuries. Why you might ask? It is because of its unique ability to enhance mental focus and alertness while simultaneously promoting a calm, sharp and meditative state.

WHAT DOES MATCHA CONTAIN?

Some of the components that makes Matcha so sort after include but are not limited to;

  • Polyphenol micronutrients – Powerful antioxidant including Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) and catechins that aids in prevention and treatment of digestion issues, weight management difficulties, diabetes, neurodegenerative disease, cardiovascular diseases, inflammation, aging cancer glaucoma and general free radical damage to cells.
  • Free amino acids – L-theanine and theophylline among other free amino acids present in Matcha aid in improving memory, focus, presence of mind and restful sleep along with increasing and balancing dopamine and serotonin production in the brain which leads to reduction in anxiety and depression.
  • Protein – The body uses protein to build and repair tissues. As well as in the production of enzymes, hormones, and other body chemicals.
  • Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) – Necessary for the growth, development and repair of tissue. It’s involved in many body functions, including formation of collagen, absorption of iron, strengthening the immune system, wound healing, and the maintenance of cartilage, bones, and teeth.
  • Vitamin A – important for vision, maintenance of the immune system as well as aiding the heart, lungs, kidneys, and a variety of other organs to function at optimum capacity.
  • Chlorophyll – Rich in vitamins and antioxidants with a detoxifying effect on the human body.
  • Vitamin B1, B2, B3, B5, B6 – These vitamins are vital and play major roles in brain development and maintaining immune system and nervous system functions. Furthermore the role of B vitamins is that of metabolizing food into energy, maintaining skin, nail and hair health and keeping the lining of your gut and blood cells healthy.
  • Vitamin E – A fat-soluble nutrient which acts as an antioxidant, helping to protect cells in the body from the damage caused by free radicals.
  • Vitamin H – Commonly referred to as biotin, this compound part of the B complex group and is necessary for skin, hair, eyes, and liver health. This compound also aids in nervous system function and is needed in the body to metabolize carbohydrates, fats, and amino acids.
  • And others like – vitamin K, Potassium, cellulose, calcium, magnesium, iron, selenium, sodium, zinc and fluorine

And this is why the recommended usage is half a teaspoon per cup!

HOW IS IT MADE

Matcha leaves are grown in a shaded area to maximize its chlorophyll, amino acids and antioxidants. The leaves are then handpicked and steeped in water to prevent oxidation before they are carefully stone grinded for about an hour to create the green Matcha powder. This process allows us to consume the whole tea leaf unlike with any other green tea.

Oh and guess what…

MATCHA HAS MORE THAN ONE USE

Yes, Matcha powder isn’t just great for making teas, lattes and iced teas. It can be used to flavor ice cream, to add to your smoothies as well as in all sorts of baking – especially banana bread!

You can watch this space for all sorts of recipes that include Matcha.

WHY MATCHA

I particularly love it for its calming effect and its ability to help me focus. Others have said they love it because it gives them a natural and sustained energy boost before a workout and keeps them hydrated, unlike coffee that gives you a boost and then a rapid fall.

So I would highly recommend a cup or two a day if you are feeling stressed, anxious, overwhelmed or  just in need of a little boost to keep you going as well as focused.

This is by far the most unique tea I have discovered! But decide for yourself. Order yours through our online store today and let me know what you think.

From yours truly,
The Sunflower

DISCLAIMER: Yes Matcha is one of the only products on the website that is not made locally, but it is sourced from a local made brand (SASTCHKA MATCHA) and is too valuable not to share here in SA.