17 Amazing Health Benefits of Matcha - HONE
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17 Amazing Health Benefits of Matcha

  • April 24, 2023
  • 23 min read

17 Amazing Health Benefits of Matcha - HONE

17 Amazing Health Benefits of Matcha

Matcha has taken the health world by storm—and for good reason. Matcha tea has a wide range of health benefits that are hard to beat. 

From boosting energy levels and improving mental clarity to preventing cancer and protecting your heart and liver, matcha is a powerhouse that you’ll want to include in your daily routine. 

Article jumplinks:

What does matcha contain?

Can I drink matcha to boost energy?

Can matcha help me relieve stress?

Does matcha boost mental health?

Does matcha boost brain function?

Does matcha improve cardiovascular health?

Is matcha good for diabetes?

Does matcha improve liver function?

Can I drink matcha to improve gut health?

Does matcha promote bone health?

Matcha and cancer prevention

Does matcha boost our immune system?

Is matcha good for arthritis?

Is matcha good for hormonal balance?

Is matcha good for oral health?

Matcha and skin health

Can matcha help me lose weight?

Is matcha good for a hangover?

Are there side effects to drinking matcha?

How can I get the benefits of matcha?

What is Matcha?

Matcha is a type of green tea that comes from Japan. It is made from finely ground, shade-grown leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. Also known as jade leaf tea, matcha has a vibrant green color, a unique, earthy flavor, and an exceptionally high nutritional profile. 

Let’s see what makes matcha green tea an adaptogenic powerhouse.

L-Theanine

L-theanine is an important amino acid found in matcha. L-theanine is known to help people relax and think more clearly. It has also been shown to increase alpha brain wave activity, which is linked to a calm, focused state of mind. This makes matcha a great drink for people who want to unwind and focus. 

L-theanine has also been found to improve mood and cognitive function.

“Our findings suggest that L-theanine has the potential to promote mental health in the general population with stress-related ailments and cognitive impairments.” (Hidese, et. al.)

Antioxidants

Matcha is packed with antioxidants, which fight harmful molecules called free radicals. Free radicals contribute to oxidative stress, aging, inflammation, and various diseases. Antioxidants help protect the body by stabilizing or deactivating free radicals before they cause harm.

Matcha is rich in many different types of antioxidants that may improve your health and lower the risk of heart disease, cancer, and other illnesses.

  • Catechins: a group of polyphenols found in teas, particularly matcha tea. Catechins are responsible for many of matcha's health benefits.
  • Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG): one of many catechins found in matcha. This one happens to be particularly well-studied.
    • “Epigallocatechin‐3‐gallate could be offered as an unprecedented curative strategy to eradicate cancer.” (Rahman, et. al.)
    • “...epigallocatechin-3 gallate may be an attractive candidate drug to inhibit tumor angiogenesis.” (Neuhaus, et. al.)
    • “...epigallocatechin gallate is the most effective antioxidant polyphenol against hydrogen peroxide and radical-scavenging activity.” (He, et. al.)
  • Flavonoids: a large group of plant compounds, including quercetin and kaempferol, which contribute to matcha's antioxidant activity and potential health benefits. Their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties may help lower the risk of heart, liver, and cancer
  • Chlorophyll: A green pigment found in plants, which also exhibits antioxidant properties.

Small Amounts of Caffeine Go a Long Way

Caffeine, another important ingredient in matcha, is a natural stimulant that increases alertness and reduces fatigue. It works by blocking adenosine, the neurotransmitter that makes you feel tired, and allowing dopamine and norepinephrine to increase. This helps you concentrate and gives you more energy. 

The most popular source of caffeine is still coffee. Yet unlike coffee, which can make people feel jittery and anxious, matcha contains a small amount of caffeine, balanced by the calming benefits of L-theanine. The combination of L-theanine and caffeine in matcha gives you a steady, jitter-free boost of energy without the side effects of coffee, energy drinks, or other caffeinated beverages.

Matcha and Chlorophyll

Matcha is rich in chlorophyll, a green pigment found in plants. Chlorophyll has numerous health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It aids in detoxification by binding toxins and heavy metals and helping our body eliminate them easily. 

Chlorophyll is also thought to help digestion by encouraging the growth of good bacteria in the gut. Some studies also show that chlorophyll may help reduce acne, mainly by lowering inflammation. Matcha is a great way to get more green into your diet because it contains a high concentration of beneficial chlorophyll.

Vitamins and Minerals

Matcha is full of vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients that are important for health. 

Vitamins

  • Vitamin A: matcha is a great source of vitamin A, which is important for healthy skin, eyes, and our immune system. This nutrient also aids the development of bones and tissues.
  • Vitamin B2 is also called riboflavin. It is an important source of energy and red blood cells. 
  • Vitamin C: matcha contains a lot of vitamin C, which helps the immune system to work and wounds to heal, protects cells from damage, supports the body's natural defenses, and helps the body make collagen.
  • Vitamin E: this fat-soluble vitamin protects cells from oxidative damage. Matcha leaves have a lot of vitamin E, which also keeps your skin and eyes healthy.
  • Vitamin K: vitamin K helps keep our bones healthy. Getting enough vitamin K is also important for lowering the risk of fractures.

Minerals

  • Calcium: matcha is a good source of calcium, which is important for strong bones and teeth. Calcium also plays a role in muscle function and blood clotting.
  • Iron: this mineral is important for transporting oxygen to all parts of the body and for keeping our immune system healthy. It can also prevent anemia and fatigue.
  • Magnesium helps maintain muscle and nerve function, control blood pressure, and keep our bones strong and healthy.
  • Potassium regulates fluid balance and heart health. Potassium also helps control blood pressure and lowers the chance of getting heart disease. 
  • Matcha is a good source of zinc, a mineral important for the immune system, healing wounds, and DNA synthesis. Zinc helps keep your skin, hair, and nails in good shape.

Many of the beneficial components of green tea matcha are not yet known. Though its exact composition varies based on tea leaf quality and processing method, matcha contains more than 100 vitamins, minerals, bioactive compounds, and nutrients. 

Let’s look at matcha’s potential health benefits and all the ways this magical powdered green tea can boost your health. 

Benefit 1:Energize Your Day with Matcha

One of the main reasons why matcha green tea is so popular is its ability to increase energy and reduce fatigue. Due to its distinct combination of active ingredients, which include caffeine, L-theanine, and antioxidants, matcha can help you feel more alert and less tired.

We already mentioned the mighty combo of caffeine and L-theanine, which helps you relax and promotes mental clarity. Caffeine and L-theanine work together to deliver a relaxing effect that allows for sustained energy levels without the nervous crash frequently associated with beverages high in caffeine (like coffee and energy drinks). While caffeine and L-theanine boost your energy levels, matcha's high antioxidant content helps reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, both of which are major contributors to fatigue. 

Matcha also contains other energy-boosting compounds such as B vitamins and chlorophyll. Vitamin B helps our body turn food into energy more efficiently, while chlorophyll promotes optimal oxygen levels in our blood. All these ingredients combine to produce a natural energy boost that can help you feel more alert and focused throughout the day. 

Benefit 2: The Stress-Relieving Elixir

L-theanine, an important amino acid found in matcha tea leaves, was shown to aid relaxation and reduce stress by stimulating the brain’s alpha waves, which are linked to relaxation and a state of wakeful tranquility. This reduces tension and anxiety while also increasing concentration and focus. L-theanine soothes the mind and relaxes the body without making you drowsy. 

A 2020 review article found an anti-stress effect in mouse models from compounds abundant in matcha.

In a mouse model of psychosocial stress, it was found that green tea had an anti-stress effect, which was due to the synergistic effect of L-theanine, epigallocatechin, and arginine, thus eliminating the antagonistic effect of caffeine and epigallocatechin gallate on psychological stress-induced adrenal hypertrophy. 

Japanese researchers discovered that L-theanine has the potential to improve mental health in people suffering from stress-related ailments and cognitive impairments.

But don’t think L-theanine is matcha’s only stress-relieving champion. Matcha also contains other amino acids, like arginine, which has been found to relax blood vessels and lower blood pressure. 

Individuals with hypertension exhibit blunted epicardial and resistance vascular dilation to endothelium-derived nitric oxide (EDNO) agonists in the peripheral and coronary circulation that likely contributes to mechanisms of altered vascular tone in hypertension. The amino acid L-arginine serves as the principal substrate for vascular nitric oxide production. Numerous studies, though not uniformly, demonstrate a beneficial effect of acute and chronic L-arginine supplementation on EDNO production and endothelial function, and L-arginine has been shown to reduce systemic blood pressure in some forms of experimental hypertension. 

Theophylline is a natural stimulant that belongs to the caffeine family and is found in matcha. According to trial studies, it can relax your lungs, alleviate breathing, and allow undisrupted oxygen flow to the lungs, which helps with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The results showed that “low-dose, slow-release oral theophylline is effective and well-tolerated in the long term treatment of stable COPD...”

Flavonoids and other antioxidants in matcha are also beneficial for lowering inflammation and fighting free radicals, all of which contribute to decreased stress and anxiety. 

Benefit 3:Boost Your Mental Health

Matcha is an effective natural treatment for anxiety and depression. Consuming matcha can help improve mood, reduce stress, and promote mental relaxation due to its unique blend of active components. Remember L-theanine and EGCG? 

L-theanine has been demonstrated to increase alpha brain wave activity, which is associated with a state of calm and relaxation. L-theanine also seems to increase levels of mood-regulating neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, which can help alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression.

EGCG alleviates oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain, leading to a decrease in anxious feelings. Research suggests that EGCG can promote neuronal plasticity—the brain's ability to adapt and build new neural connections—which can further improve mental health.

Researchers looked at how matcha’s epigallocatechin gallate affected adult hippocampus neurogenesis in mice. They found that EGCG can increase the number of neurons in the brain and improve brain plasticity. But how does all this affect our mental health?

Our brain’s ability to create new neurons paves the way for its adaptation in response to new experiences, learning, and environmental stimuli, which is called brain plasticity. This skill is vital for the maintenance of neural networks that overlook cognitive processes such as memory, attention, and emotional regulation. By increasing brain plasticity, we are able to improve cognitive function and mental health.

Matcha improves mental health

Benefit 4: Green Tea for Healthy Gray Cells 

While we’re on the subject of brain plasticity, matcha’s bioactive compounds and antioxidants protect not only your mental health but also your brain function. 

Matcha is a natural nootropic. Nootropics are the so-called “brain–boosting drugs” that enhance cognitive performance. Recent studies have shown that natural nootropics, like matcha, can reduce neuroinflammation and protect our brain from toxins. 

Caffeine and L-theanine have been demonstrated to improve brain function. Caffeine stimulates the central nervous system, improving alertness, attention, and focus. Meanwhile, the L-theanine in matcha promotes alpha wave activity in the brain, which is linked to relaxation and stress reduction.

Green tea extract increases cognitive performance, particularly working memory, in elderly people. A 2014 Japanese study examined the effects of green tea on cognitive impairment in elderly nursing home residents. The subjects’ Mini-Mental State Examination scores improved significantly after three months: drinking only 2mg of matcha every day slowed the course of cognitive dysfunction and improved cognitive performance. 

Benefit 5:Sip Your Way to a Healthier Heart

The combination of antioxidants, polyphenols, and L-theanine in green tea matcha has outstanding cardiovascular benefits. High concentrations of catechins in matcha powder help protect against heart disease by lowering oxidative stress and inflammation. Inflammation and free radicals often lead to plaque accumulation in the arteries, which is a key risk factor for heart disease. Catechins prevent plaque from accumulating in the arteries by eliminating the unstable and harmful molecules called free radicals and lowering inflammation. 

The antioxidant properties of matcha promote a healthy heart by lowering blood pressure. Compounds found in matcha increase the production of nitric oxide. Nitric oxide is a vasodilatory molecule: it relaxes arteries, improves blood flow, and lowers blood pressure. According to research, EGCG can regulate nitric oxide synthesis, which has direct vascular benefits in the treatment of inflammatory cardiovascular disorders. 

Benefit 6:Regulating Blood Sugar Levels 

Diabetes and heart disease often go hand in hand. Matcha may improve the lives of diabetics by regulating sugar levels in the blood. 

We already know that matcha is high in polyphenols. These bioactive compounds are associated with many health advantages, including increased insulin sensitivity and blood sugar regulation. Research shows that polyphenols may help people with type 2 diabetes lower their blood sugar levels and help the body make better use of insulin. This may also aid in the prevention of obesity, a key risk factor for the development of type 2 diabetes. 

Diabetes typically arises from increased levels of low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL cholesterol), also known as bad cholesterol. Drinking matcha regularly may cause the levels of bad cholesterol to drop while increasing the levels of good cholesterol (high-density lipoprotein cholesterol). Keeping cholesterol levels in check, in addition to regulating blood sugar, is crucial for the management of diabetes and prevention of related complications. 

Benefit 7: Liver Health

Matcha is good for the liver, too. 

According to a 2021 animal study, matcha may help protect the liver from damage caused by non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Active components of matcha seem to control lipid buildup, inflammation, and boost liver function. Mice in the study were given matcha for six weeks. The matcha supplement not only regulated abnormal liver function but also prevented the buildup of visceral and hepatic fat—one of the causes of obesity and high cholesterol. Fat buildup in the liver can also lead to more serious problems like cirrhosis and liver cancer.

Speaking of liver cancer, catechin-rich matcha has been shown to stop cancer cells in the liver from growing and spreading to healthy cells and even induce cancer apoptosis (cell death). Evidence suggests that EGCG may prevent the spread of cancer. 

Benefit 8:Improved Digestion and Gut Health  

One of the most important ways to maintain good gut health is to improve digestion. And matcha can do just that.

Catechins and polyphenols are known to help digestion and lower gut inflammation. This can alleviate symptoms of bloating, diarrhea, and constipation. Remember epigallocatechin gallate? EGCG can help promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut. These are very important for keeping our gut flora healthy and running smoothly. 

If you’ve been experiencing constipation lately, it’s about time you started sipping on a cup of matcha tea. Although it’s not considered a high-fiber food, matcha contains a small amount of gut-friendly, fibery ingredients—such as EGCG—that may ease constipation. 

Bear in mind that matcha and other green teas are not an instant fix for constipation or other digestive issues, so make sure to add green tea to your shopping list today and stick to a healthy routine of drinking matcha tea every day. 

Benefit 9: A Cup of Matcha a Day Keeps Your Bones Healthy 

Packed with a lot of important nutrients for bone health—like calcium, vitamin K, and vitamin D—matcha might be good for your bones. 

Calcium is required for bone formation and keeping your bones healthy, whereas vitamin K helps activate proteins involved in bone mineralization. Vitamin D aids in the absorption of calcium and maintains healthy bones.

A number of bone diseases, like osteoporosis, have been linked to chronic inflammation. In a recent animal study, green tea polyphenols were found to reverse inflammation-induced bone loss, while EGCG improves symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and protects the bones from damage caused by inflammation. 

This is great news for the osteoporosis-prone elderly and postmenopausal women, who have a higher risk of developing osteoporosis due to reduced estrogen production. 

Matcha increases bone strength

Benefit 10: Anticancer Properties of Matcha

There is evidence that matcha may be able to fight cancer. The powerful antioxidants in matcha may inhibit cancer cells from growing and spreading. Matcha may also lower the chance of cancer by preventing DNA damage and oxidative stress.

One study found that matcha may help reduce the chance of breast cancer. The findings of the study showed that matcha could stop breast cancer cells from spreading while also preventing oxidative mitochondrial metabolism (OMM) in cancer cells. 

Oxidative mitochondrial metabolism is the process by which cells turn nutrients, like glucose, into energy through a set of chemical reactions that occur inside the mitochondria. While OMM is important for cells to work properly, this process can make cancer worse by helping cancer cells to spread. By retarding OMM in cancer cells only, matcha seems to slow the spread of cancer.

Other studies show that active ingredients found in matcha can prevent and even help fight colorectal cancer, lung cancer, and other types of carcinomas. But more comprehensive research is needed to fully understand matcha's possible cancer-fighting properties. 

With that said, a cup of matcha a day hasn’t hurt anyone, so why not refine your days with the best ceremonial grade matcha in North America? We use the highest grade matcha available on the market. Don’t believe us? Try ourmushroom matcha tea. You’ll thank us later. 

Benefit 11:Boost Your Immunity with Matcha

Matcha has been found to have potential immune-boosting properties. It is bursting with polyphenols: mighty antioxidants that protect the body from free radicals. But did you know they can also boost your immune system? Polyphenols have been shown to reduce inflammation and improve immune function by increasing the activity of white blood cells.

EGCG is also associated with promoting immune function. Drinking green tea has been demonstrated to alter certain types of immune cells in both the innate and adaptive immune systems. According tostudies, EGCG showed a considerable impact on T cell function. T cells are an important group of white blood cells that serve important functions, such as activation, proliferation, differentiation, and cytokine generation. 

It turns out that chronic stress can weaken the immune system. Remember L-theanine? This natural stress-reliever has been shown to calm the body and mind and soothe you and your immune system. 

Benefit 12: Lower Inflammation and Fight Arthritis  

We’ve been yapping about matcha’s anti-inflammatory properties all along, so the fact that Japanese matcha tea can fight arthritis should come as no surprise. 

Matcha's active components, particularly EGCG, have been shown to block the production of inflammatory cytokines, which play a big role in the development of rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory disorders. EGCG has also been proven to inhibit the activity of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-B), a transcription factor involved in the production of inflammation-related genes.

An article published in Biotechnology and Applied Biochemistry suggested that, in animal models of arthritis, EGCG has been proven to lower inflammation and slow the course of joint degeneration. Another study found that EGCG reduced inflammation and cartilage breakdown in osteoarthritic rats. These data collected from animal models imply that EGCG may have a therapeutic effect in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, mainly by reducing inflammation in the joints.

Benefit 13:Balancing Your Hormones with Matcha

Matcha’s polyphenols have been shown to affect a variety of hormones in our body. EGCG can help regulate insulin levels, which helps with the prevention and management of diabetes. It can also lower cortisol levels, improve mood, and lower anxiety. 

Polyphenols and flavonoids found in matcha have adaptogenic properties and may help regulate the thyroid. Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) production can be inhibited by EGCG, which might help regulate thyroid hormone levels in people with thyroid problems. 

EGCG has also been shown to influence sex hormone levels in both men and women. Epigallocatechin gallate seems to suppress the activity of aromatase, an enzyme responsible for converting androgens to estrogens. This action may be advantageous for women suffering from hormone-sensitive illnesses such as breast cancer because it may help lower estrogen levels in the body.

Benefit 14:Improve Your Oral Health  

Did you know matcha can benefit your oral health? Polyphenols and catechins in matcha powder have antibacterial qualities and may help reduce plaque and bacteria in the mouth.Some studies suggest that rinsing your mouth with green tea extracts can reduce the amount of bacteria—yes, your mouth is a germ-infested party—and improve gum health. Its anti-inflammatory effects promote healthy gums and prevent gum disease. 

Even your teeth will thank you for using matcha every day. By inhibiting the growth of germs that cause tooth decay, matcha can eliminate and prevent cavities. Good thing matcha is also packed with fluoride, because this mineral may help to strengthen teeth and fight tooth decay. 

Benefit 15:Improve Your Skin Health with Matcha  

Matcha can help promote healthy skin. It protects the skin from the sun and other environmental stressors by employing its high concentrations of antioxidants that fight free radicals—a major contributor to skin aging. 

Matcha’s anti-inflammatory effects reduce redness and skin irritation. Chronic inflammation plays a role in a variety of skin disorders, including acne, eczema, and psoriasis. The aforementioned chlorophyll is a natural detoxifier and can clear your skin from toxins and external pollutants. Green tea’s polyphenols provide protection from UV radiation, and while it isn’t a replacement for sunscreen, sipping cold matcha lattes may provide additional UV protection on a hot day. 

Every skin expert can agree: hydration is the mother of skin care. Critical for healthy skin, matcha is a great source of hydration. Drinking matcha can help keep your skin nourished and fresh, prevent dryness, and give you a healthy, glowing complexion. 

Benefit 16: Burn Calories with Matcha

Getting rid of those extra pounds won’t happen overnight. But did you know that matcha can contribute to your weight loss efforts? 

Matcha has thermogenic qualities: it contains chemicals that boost the body’s metabolism. Some amazing things happen when your metabolism is working smoothly:

  • Heat production is increased. 
  • A process called fat oxidation is boosted: your body breaks down fats (triglycerides) into smaller molecules (free fatty acids and glycerol), which are used as a source of energy.
  • More heat in the body means more ways to create energy that speeds up the metabolism.
  • When your metabolism is up to speed, your body can break down fat more efficiently, contributing to weight loss. 

The potent antioxidants in matcha are great sources of thermogenesis and fat oxidation. In combination with caffeine, which has serious fat-burning properties, matcha becomes a strong thermogenic agent that can aid the weight management process. 

A study looked at whether drinking matcha green tea had any effect on body weight during light exercise. The results showed that matcha increased the fat burning process in women during a 30-minute brisk walk. 

While matcha can indeed help you get rid of body fat and lose calories, it should be combined with healthy eating and regular exercise in order to achieve the ultimate weight loss goal. 

Benefit 17: Bye Bye, Hangover

Great news for all you party people out there: if you’ve had a little too much to drink over the weekend—and now suffer the terrible wrath of a hangover—matcha might help you ease some of the symptoms of your heavy drinking. 

This superfood contains a plethora of active compounds and chemicals that can cure your hangover. Antioxidants help get rid of toxins in your body, caffeine can reduce headaches and help you think more clearly, and chlorophyll acts to restore the natural balance in your body. Your liver probably needs extra protection after your drinking escapades, but don’t worry; catechins got your back (and your liver.) The amino acids in matcha—particularly L-theanine—may help reduce fatigue and bring a sense of calm. 

If you’re hungover, grab a cup of matcha. 

Side Effects of Drinking Matcha

Matcha has no long-term negative side effects. Due to its high caffeine concentration, drinking too much matcha can cause a headache or insomnia, but these effects will fade after the caffeine wears off. If taken in excessive amounts, matcha might cause diarrhea or upset stomach, but these side effects are also temporary. 

Most concerns about drinking matcha arise from the fact that it contains caffeine. An article published in thePharma Innovation Journal lists the negative effects of matcha in large amounts. 

High doses of matcha at night can disrupt sleep. The caffeine in matcha can make you feel antsy and keep you from falling asleep. The best time to drink matcha is in the morning or late afternoon, when it will give you the most energy. Unless you’re pulling an all-nighter, don’t drink too much green tea in the evening. 

If you're new to matcha, start with low dosages and work your way up. 

What is the Best Way to Drink Matcha?

The popularity of matcha has grown in the past decades, but it still hasn’t peaked. People are discovering new ways to consume this superfood and reap the benefits of green tea. Matcha lattes are always in style, and some ice cream parlors all over the world attract customers with a unique, matcha ice cream taste. 

However, the best way to consume matcha is the healthiest way: preparing traditional matcha tea from powder. Just pour hot water over our matcha powder, and stir it up. 

Mushroom Matcha Tea Compostable Packets

Our fine powder comes from the highest quality, organic ceremonial matcha in Japan. Sourced from an eco-heritage, family-owned farm located at the foothills of Mt. Fuji, our matcha leaves are grown with care and centuries-old tradition. That’s why choosing Hone matcha powder is a great way to reap all the matcha tea benefits. 

Our matcha powder comes in two sizes—a 10-serving mushroom matcha box, and a 30-serving mushroom matcha jar. You can bring them with you to work or on vacation, and you can definitely enjoy our matcha at home every day. 

Matcha Benefits FAQ

What happens when you drink matcha every day?

Drinking matcha every day comes with potential health benefits and perks. 

  • Because it’s full of antioxidants, matcha can protect you from oxidative damage and lower inflammation in the body. You might notice less swelling or water retaining after regular consumption. 
  • Caffeine in matcha will give you energy and help you concentrate. 
  • L-theanine in matcha will help you relax. Samurais used to hold matcha tea ceremonies before going to battle in order to induce a state of deep relaxation. 
  • Because matcha contains many thermogenic compounds, you’ll probably notice a boost in your metabolism. This will help you burn calories quicker.
  • You’ll probably start to notice improvements to your skin. Matcha deeply nourishes the skin while fighting signs of aging, acne, and skin breakouts. Who doesn’t want clear, bright, and youthful skin?.
  • This Japanese tea fights inflammation, one of the main causes of psoriatic arthritis. People with a skin condition called psoriasis are more likely to develop psoriatic arthritis and experience swollen and painful joints. Drinking matcha regularly can fight off symptoms of psoriatic arthritis, psoriasis, and other skin issues. 

How much matcha should you drink a day?

If you’re a beginner to matcha, starting with lower amounts is a good idea. To get all of the green tea benefits 1–2 cups per day are best. Once your body adjusts to the beneficial effects of matcha, you can increase to more cups per day. 

Don’t forget that matcha contains caffeine. If you don’t want the negative effects of caffeine—those similar to drinking a lot of coffee every day—limit your caffeine intake and go slow with your matcha tea. 

Does matcha cleanse your body?

The abundance of antioxidants found in matcha can help our bodies cleanse. Liver, kidneys, and the digestive system have their own natural ways to get rid of toxins. Drinking matcha green tea regularly can boost their efficiency and help pull toxins out of the bloodstream. Antioxidants protect against oxidative stress and liver damage, and they can even act as a preventive shield against heart attacks. 

Due to its rich chemical composition, matcha can prevent many diseases, support cognitive function, and help cleanse our bodies from toxins and free radicals. 

Who should not drink matcha?

Although matcha is beneficial for most people, women who are pregnant or nursing should talk to their doctor before consuming matcha tea. Matcha has a lot of caffeine, and while some women choose to have small amounts of caffeine while they are pregnant or nursing, it's generally recommended that they limit their caffeine intake to 200 milligrams per day, which is approximately one cup of coffee.

In addition, people sensitive to caffeine may want to consider consuming very low amounts of matcha. 

Is matcha healthier than coffee?

While both beverages contain antioxidants and have health benefits, matcha seems to be a healthier choice than coffee. Many people switch to drinking green tea because it offers all the benefits and none of the drawbacks of coffee. Their main concern is the amount of caffeine. Coffee contains more caffeine than matcha and can cause anxious, jittery feelings when consumed in excess of the recommended daily dose. 

Whether matcha or coffee is better for your health depends on your needs, tastes, and how much caffeine you can handle. Both can be part of a healthy, well-balanced diet, as long as you don't drink too much.

Can I drink matcha on an empty stomach?

Opinions on whether you should drink matcha on an empty stomach or not are divided. 

Some people say that the best thing for your body is to drink green tea first thing in the morning, before you eat. Because of its detoxifying properties, they recommend drinking it on an empty stomach, right before breakfast. 

On the other hand, the caffeine in matcha can cause an upset stomach or jitters and can even make you feel sick if you haven’t had anything to eat. 

The best way to go is to listen to your body. If you don’t experience any unpleasant effects when drinking matcha on an empty stomach, go for it. If you do need a snack or a proper meal before you can sip on your matcha latte or a traditional matcha tea, that’s okay too. 

Do Japanese people drink matcha everyday?

Many Japanese people drink matcha every day. Instead of coffee, matcha is their favorite drink of choice in the morning. They also drink it during the afternoon, serve it to guests and friends, and even drink it several times a day. 

Drinking matcha in Japan is a well-established ritual that dates back to feudal Japan. Although matcha tea bags are readily available anywhere in Japan, Japanese people prefer doing it old school: the green tea powder is consumed by whisking it with a traditional bamboo whisk into hot water to form a frothy drink. Other Japanese pour hot water over a small cup with tea leaves and let it brew for a few minutes. 

Does matcha help hair growth?

The antioxidant-rich matcha may help protect against hair loss or thinning. Certain compounds, such as epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), have been studied for their potential hair growth-promoting effects. A clinical trial has suggested that EGCG stimulates hair growth and that it might be useful in treating or preventing alopecia in men and women. 

Does matcha affect testosterone?

Green tea extract can help maintain healthy testosterone levels and even boost the production of sperm. Catechins in matcha inhibit the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, resulting in a rise in circulating testosterone. According to a study, the polyphenols in matcha are reported to elevate FSH and are suggested to promote or lower testosterone.

The anti-inflammatory effect of matcha can help protect testicular cells from damage, so they can produce the hormone more effectively. 

Does matcha tea stain teeth?

Unlike coffee, matcha powder tea won’t stain your teeth. On the contrary, matcha was found to help with dental health as it may reduce dental plaque with regular use.

Resources

  • Shinsuke Hidese, et al. Effects of L-Theanine Administration on Stress-Related Symptoms and Cognitive Functions in Healthy Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial. pdfs.semanticscholar.org/1527/4f5f6bc9d15dde2140995e47eeec757b1097.pdf?_gl=1*1cc066u*_ga*MTk1OTI4NDYwNi4xNjgxMzM5MTU1*_ga_H7P4ZT52H5*MTY4MTkxNDM3My4zLjAuMTY4MTkxNDk3OC4wLjAuMA.. Accessed 21 Apr. 2019.
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