Table of Content
An introduction to matcha tea What is matcha tea? Why is matcha tea so popular? The health benefits of matcha tea Antioxidants in matcha tea Matcha tea for brain function Protecting the liver with matcha tea Differences between ceremonial and culinary matcha Ceremonial matcha in detail Culinary matcha compared Ways to use matcha powder in the kitchen Matcha in drinks Matcha in baking Frequently Asked Questions
An introduction to matcha tea
What is matcha tea?
Matcha is a high-quality Japanese green tea powder made from finely ground, dried tea leaves. Matcha's slightly bitter, grassy flavour and vibrant green colour come from its high chlorophyll content. When I drink matcha, I'm taking in the whole tea leaf, which may bring potential health benefits such as lower blood pressure, a reduced risk of heart disease and a boosted metabolism ( Love and Lemons ).
| Property |
Values |
| Caffeine per gram |
18.9 - 44.4 mg |
| Caffeine per teaspoon (2g) |
Up to 88.8 mg |
Why is matcha tea so popular?
Matcha tea is especially popular because of its many health benefits and its unique preparation. Making it takes more care, which leads to more mindful enjoyment. Many people swear by matcha's antioxidant properties, which can support the heart, reduce blood pressure and possibly boost metabolism ( Love and Lemons ). For many of us, matcha is also a delicious and healthy alternative to coffee, as it contains more caffeine than regular green tea and so offers an effective source of energy.
Another reason for matcha's popularity is how flexible it is. Matcha can be enjoyed on its own or in drinks such as a Matcha latte. It's also excellent in all kinds of recipes, whether in baking or as a garnish.
When I think about matcha, I always think of the positive effects it has on my wellbeing. The mindful drinking and the rich flavour are just some of the reasons I value matcha so much.
The health benefits of matcha tea
Antioxidants in matcha tea
I love matcha tea not only for its unique flavour but also for its strong antioxidant properties. Matcha contains compounds such as epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which studies have shown to have anti-cancer properties. Although more research is needed, some results suggest that the compounds in matcha could inhibit the growth of cancer cells. Antioxidants are crucial for neutralising free radicals in the body, which can lead to cell damage. Here is an overview of the antioxidants in matcha and their potential benefits:
| Antioxidant |
Benefit |
| EGCG |
Could inhibit the growth of cancer cells |
| Catechins |
Immune system support |
| Vitamin C |
Skin health and immunity |
Matcha tea for brain function
Another reason I value matcha is its positive influence on brain function. Studies show that matcha can support concentration and memory. The combination of caffeine and L-theanine, an amino acid, promotes alertness and can help reduce stress, which leads to better focus. This natural energy boost is ideal for a productive day.
Here is an overview of how matcha supports brain function:
|
Benefit |
Description |
| Improved concentration |
Caffeine and L-theanine combine to promote focus |
| Memory support |
Studies have shown that matcha can enhance memory performance |
| Stress reduction |
L-theanine helps lower stress and promote relaxation |
Protecting the liver with matcha tea
Matcha tea may also have a positive influence on liver health. A 2015 review showed that drinking green tea could lower the risk of liver disease. In 2020 it was also found that matcha can lower liver enzymes in people with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), while the effect in people without NAFLD may possibly be the opposite ( Healthline ).
Here is a summary of matcha's potential health benefits for the liver:
|
Benefit |
Description |
| Liver enzymes |
May reduce liver enzymes in NAFLD |
|
Protection against liver disease |
Could reduce the risk of liver disease |
By regularly taking matcha powder I can not only support my health but also learn something about the tradition and cultural meaning behind this wonderful drink.
Differences between ceremonial and culinary matcha
Ceremonial matcha is made from the youngest tea leaves and stands out for its mild, umami-rich flavour. The greatest strength of this matcha is its high quality, which also makes it more expensive. Ceremonial matcha is ideal for formal tea rituals or simply for enjoying on its own.
| Property |
Ceremonial matcha |
| Leaves |
Youngest, hand-picked |
| Flavour |
Mild, umami |
| Use |
Drinking on its own |
| Price |
Higher |
Ceremonial matcha in detail
Ceremonial matcha is made from the youngest tea leaves and stands out for its mild, umami-rich flavour. The greatest strength of this matcha is its high quality, which also makes it more expensive. Ceremonial matcha is ideal for formal tea rituals or simply for enjoying on its own.
|
Property |
Ceremonial matcha |
|
Leaves |
Youngest, hand-picked |
|
Flavour |
Mild, umami |
|
Use |
Drinking on its own |
|
Price |
Higher |
One recommended brand for drinking is Ippodo Tea Ummon, known for its rich, earthy flavour with a hint of bitterness.
Culinary matcha compared
Culinary matcha, on the other hand, is often used in the kitchen, whether for cooking or for less formal teas. This type of matcha usually has a stronger flavour and is very versatile. Culinary matcha is also cheaper, as it isn't made from the youngest and finest leaves.
|
Property |
Culinary matcha |
|
Leaves |
Older, less refined |
|
Flavour |
Stronger, less umami |
|
Use |
Cooking, baking |
|
Price |
Lower |
Culinary matcha is excellent for recipes such as a Matcha latte or as an ingredient in baking. For more recipe ideas, I recommend taking a look at our matcha latte recipe.
The right choice between ceremonial and culinary matcha ultimately depends on your personal preferences and how you plan to use it. So when I'm after a refined tea experience, I reach for ceremonial matcha. But when I want to try something creative in the kitchen, culinary matcha is the perfect choice.
Ways to use matcha powder in the kitchen
Matcha powder isn't just a healthy drink; it can also be used in lots of ways in the kitchen. I find it has the potential to enrich many dishes. Here are some great ways I use matcha powder in my kitchen.
Matcha in drinks
One of the easiest and most popular ways to use matcha powder is in drinks. A matcha latte is a classic, and I enjoy drinking one in the morning as a healthy alternative to my coffee. To make a delicious matcha latte, all I need is matcha powder, hot water or milk, and optionally a little sweetness such as honey or agave syrup. With a tasty matcha latte recipe I can learn how to make it properly.
These drinks also make the most of matcha's health benefits, such as its antioxidant effect and the natural energy boost from caffeine. I've also tried a few smoothies with matcha powder in the past, which gives an extra health kick.
| Drink |
Ingredients |
| Matcha latte |
Matcha powder, hot milk, sweetener |
| Matcha smoothie |
Matcha powder, banana, yoghurt, milk |
Matcha in baking
Matcha powder works brilliantly in baking. It adds not only flavour but also a beautiful green colour. I've used matcha in recipes for muffins, biscuits and even bread. I simply add a small amount of matcha powder by replacing part of the flour with it ( Navitas Organics ).
Here is a simple table showing how matcha can be used in different bakes:
| Bake | Amount of matcha powder | Amount of flour replaced |
| Biscuits | 1-2 tbsp | 2-3 tbsp |
| Muffins | 2-3 tbsp | ¼ cup |
| Cake | 3-4 tbsp | ½ cup |
Baking with matcha opens up a whole new world of treats, and I love the exciting combination of flavour and health.
A creative way to use matcha powder is as a garnish. I find it especially appealing to dust matcha lightly over desserts such as chocolate cake or ice cream. It doesn't just make dishes look attractive, it also offers health benefits. Some ideas for using matcha as a garnish:
👉Dust lightly over chocolate biscuits
👉Use as a topping for yoghurt or pudding
👉Sprinkle over roasted vegetable dishes for an interesting colour contrast
With matcha powder I can add both visual and flavour accents to my dishes, and it's simply fun to be creative. For more on the benefits of matcha, visit my articles on what is matcha good for? or take a look at how does matcha tea taste best?.
"Matcha doesn't just change the way we drink tea - it transforms the person who drinks it. Every cup is an invitation to mindfulness and inner calm."
Further Readings
→ How to choose the Yoga Mat based on your yoga level?
→ How to master the Yoga Hardest positions?
The Author: Lisa Müller
Lisa Müller is a passionate matcha expert and certified tea sommelier with more than 15 years' experience in traditional Japanese tea culture. After training in Kyoto, she dedicated herself to teaching authentic matcha preparation and its holistic health benefits. In her workshops and seminars she combines traditional knowledge with modern health findings and shows how matcha can contribute to a more mindful, balanced lifestyle. Through regular trips to Japan, she keeps deepening her knowledge of the art of the tea ceremony and the fine distinctions between different matcha grades.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much caffeine does matcha contain compared with coffee?
One teaspoon (2g) of matcha contains up to 88.8 mg of caffeine. That's less than an average cup of coffee (95-200 mg), but the L-theanine it contains makes the effect more balanced and longer-lasting, without the typical caffeine crash.
What is the difference between ceremonial and culinary matcha?
Ceremonial matcha is the highest grade, made from the youngest tea leaves with a mild, umami-rich flavour - ideal for drinking on its own. Culinary matcha is cheaper, has a stronger flavour and is perfect for cooking, baking and matcha lattes.
How should matcha be stored?
Matcha should be stored airtight, cool and dark, ideally in the fridge. Light, heat and moisture can affect its quality and flavour. Once opened, the powder should be used within 4-6 weeks.
What health benefits does matcha offer?
Matcha is rich in antioxidants (especially EGCG), supports brain function through the combination of caffeine and L-theanine, and may support liver health and boost metabolism. It can also contribute to reduced stress and better concentration.
