L-Theanine, antioxidants, and so much more.
Matcha is starting to show up as a staple in coffee/ tea shops in the United States recently. This traditional drink originated from humble buddhist monks, and was later adopted into samurai culture to become a very common drink in Japan to this day. So why has this startling green drink survived the ages?
Matcha much like Coffee is a natural energy booster, mental clarity, and increased ability to focus for extended periods of time, however unlike coffee which relies heavily on the neuroactive caffeine component to instill these effects, Matcha has both caffeine and L-Theanine, and it makes a world of difference.
L-Theanine is considered a nonessential amino-acid that is found in green tea and certain mushrooms types, that humans do not produce themselves but can greatly benefit from its consumption. L-Theanine can help increase serotonin production, increased mitochondrial function, improve immune function and has been shown to improve memory and concentration after consumption.
Matcha is a specialty green tea product. During the final harvest to boost chlorophyll production the tea plants are covered for about two weeks and then harvested. Once dried the tea leaves destined to become Matcha are ground into a powder.
Match can be used in various forms of cooking from simple teas and lattas to ice cream.
Matcha can have a bitter taste however can be used to balance various treats for an added antioxidant and energy boost.
So if you are looking for a little boost in energy and mood you may want to give Matcha a try.