Benefits to drinking Matcha
Matcha, a concentrated form of green tea, traces its origins back to the Tang Dynasty in ancient China. However, its deep-rooted significance in Japanese culture began in the 12th century when the Buddhist monk Eisai introduced it to Japanese society. Over the centuries, the Japanese refined the cultivation and preparation of matcha, incorporating it into their tea ceremonies and daily life.
In recent years, matcha has gained immense popularity in Western society, fueled by social media influencers, an increasing focus on health-conscious lifestyles, and mainstream endorsements—most notably from brands like Starbucks.
Matcha Powder and Bamboo Whisk
Matcha and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)
Green tea, also known as Lu Cha, has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for centuries. TCM aims to establish harmony and balance within the body, promoting its natural healing processes by addressing the root cause of pathology rather than just the symptoms.
Different herbs in TCM possess distinct medicinal properties that determine their clinical applications. Matcha and green tea are classified based on their effects on bodily balance and specific organ systems.
Traditional Medicinal Properties of Matcha/Green Tea
1. Cooling Nature:
Matcha is considered a cooling herb in TCM, making it particularly useful for individuals with excess internal heat. Symptoms of excess heat can include inflammation, irritability, and digestive discomfort. Due to its cooling nature, matcha can help clear heat and reduce inflammation in the body.
2. Effects on the Stomach, Lung, and Heart:
Matcha benefits the digestive system by clearing heat-related symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. It is particularly helpful when these symptoms are linked to excess heat in the stomach.
In TCM, the Heart is associated with the Shen (mind/spirit). Matcha’s effects on the heart contribute to mental clarity, focus, and cognitive sharpness.
Rich in Polyphenols and Antioxidants
Polyphenols are plant compounds with strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. While all teas—including black, oolong, and green—contain polyphenols, matcha has a particularly high concentration.
A Japanese study published in JAMA found that green tea polyphenols may contribute to lower mortality rates in individuals with cardiovascular disease. (1)
A Healthy Alternative to Coffee
Many individuals rely on coffee to combat mental fatigue. However, some experience unwanted side effects such as jitteriness, heart palpitations, anxiety, acid reflux, and bloating.
Matcha serves as a gentler alternative due to the presence of L-theanine, an amino acid that helps counteract the negative effects of caffeine. This allows individuals to enjoy mental alertness without the energy crashes associated with coffee. Additionally, matcha is sometimes recommended for children with ADHD as a milder, more sustainable option to enhance focus without excessive stimulation.
When to Avoid Matcha
While matcha offers numerous benefits, it is not suitable for everyone at all times. TCM emphasizes the importance of consuming foods and herbs based on one’s individual constitution and current health condition.
People with Spleen Qi Deficiency:
Symptoms include loose or undigested stools, an aversion to cold, and stomach discomfort that improves with warmth.
Matcha’s cooling nature can exacerbate these conditions. To counterbalance, individuals can add warming herbs like ginger when consuming matcha.
Individuals with an Exterior Pathogen (e.g., Cold or Flu):
When fighting a cold or flu, the body benefits from acrid herbs such as ginger, mint, and scallions, which promote sweating and pathogen expulsion.
Matcha’s bitter and cooling properties may hinder this process, potentially prolonging illness. It is best to avoid matcha until recovery.
Conclusion
Tea is the second most consumed beverage worldwide, following water. While Eastern cultures have long valued tea for both its medicinal and ceremonial significance, matcha’s growing popularity in the West presents an opportunity to embrace a healthier and more balanced lifestyle.
Sources:
(1). Kuriyama, S., Shimazu, T., Ohmori, K., Kikuchi, N., Nakaya, N., Nishino, Y., ... & Tsuji, I. (2006). Green tea consumption and mortality due to cardiovascular disease, cancer, and all causes in Japan: The Ohsaki study. JAMA, 296(10), 1255-1265. https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.296.10.1255