Matcha 101: A Primer on Premium Tea

Matcha is one of the most beneficial, soothing drinks you’ll ever have. In recent years, it’s become more widespread, and more and more people are enjoying it. Despite its popularity, not many people know its unique characteristics or its long history.

If you’re interested in becoming a true matcha connoisseur, then read on to explore the nature and origins of this amazing tea.

What is matcha and how is it made?

Matcha is a finely ground, powdered tea that comes from a shade-grown leaf called tencha. The tea leaves are placed in shade in order to promote growth and photosynthesis.

While the leaves are shaded, their levels of chlorophyll and L-theanine increase. This causes the leaves to become a deeper shade of green, and they produce amino acids (such as L-theanine).

The leaves are hand-harvested and laid out to dry. After the veins and stems are removed, the leaves are stone-ground into a fine powder, which is matcha.

What benefits does matcha have?

It's packed with antioxidants.

You’ve probably heard the word “antioxidant” thrown around a lot, and it’s an important term to understand. Antioxidants help protect your body from harmful cells called free radicals. Free radicals can damage or even destroy healthy cells, and antioxidants prevent the free radicals from doing any harm. A mere 2 grams of Magus Brands matcha contains 137 times the antioxidants of a cup of green tea.

It helps fight off infection.

The antioxidants and amino acids found in matcha contribute to your body’s immune system, helping to fortify it against infections and illness.

It calms you with L-theanine.

L-theanine is an amino acid that helps you feel relaxed and less stressed. It gives you a calm feeling without drowsiness. Drinking a cup of matcha before you work may help you maintain a clearer, more alert state of mind.

It provides an energy boost. The caffeine in a cup of matcha is comparable to the caffeine in a cup of brewed coffee. However, since the caffeine is paired with L-theanine, your energy levels and relaxation levels are both boosted. You get all the energy you’d get from a cup of coffee, but you won’t be jittery, shaky, or anxious.

How is matcha brewed?

See our matcha brew guide for detailed information on the brewing process.

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We love matcha for all of these reasons and more. It’s relaxing every step of the way, from brewing it to drinking it, and its umami taste is delightful.

If you want to find out for yourself why matcha is so good, grab some Magus Brands ceremonial matcha or easy-to-brew MatchaSticks.™