© Shutterstock

Tea ceremonies -

Matcha is traditionally used in Japanese tea ceremonies, where it is prepared and served with great care and attention to detail.

© Shutterstock

History -

A Buddhist monk, Myoan Eisai, is credited with first bringing matcha to Japan from China in the 1100s. He brought it back from his travels to establish "the way of tea" practice.

© Shutterstock

Flavor -

Matcha tea has a unique flavor that is both sweet and bitter, with a slightly grassy taste.

© Shutterstock

Quality -

The quality of matcha can vary depending on the grade and origin of the tea leaves.

© Shutterstock

Quality -

The highest quality matcha is made from the youngest and most tender leaves, which are hand-picked and stone-ground into a fine powder.

© Shutterstock

More expensive -

Matcha is typically more expensive than other types of tea due to the labor-intensive process of growing and harvesting the tea leaves.

© Shutterstock

Why matcha? -

Matcha is grown in the shade, forcing the plant to make xenohormetins.

© Shutterstock

Active compounds -

When we ingest these active compounds, they increase our body's survival defenses that fight against aging.

© Shutterstock

Longevity -

Since ancient times, tea has been recognized for its impact on longevity. The Chinese Taoist philosopher Lao Tzu said, "Tea is the elixir of life."

© Shutterstock

Longevity -

Matcha is believed to slow down aging by inhibiting the mutation of DNA and by aiding the restoration of damaged DNA.

© Shutterstock

L-theanine -

Eisai found that drinking matcha improved his Zen meditation sessions, as it created a state of calm alertness. We now know this is due to the L-theanine and caffeine in matcha.

© Shutterstock

L-theanine -

L-theanine is an amino acid that promotes relaxation and reduces stress. Stress is known to contribute to premature aging.

© Shutterstock

Caffeine -

The caffeine in matcha can help increase energy and focus. Caffeine is used in skincare products to promote skin elasticity.

© Shutterstock

Antioxidants -

Matcha is high in antioxidants, which support the body to protect itself from damage caused by free radicals.

© Shutterstock

Antioxidants -

Matcha contains as many antioxidants as 10 cups of regular green tea.

© Shutterstock

Immunity -

Antioxidants are known to boost the immune system, making it easier for the body to fight infections.

© Shutterstock

Catechins -

Catechins found in matcha and their antioxidant properties help prevent damage to the surface of the skin to promote anti-aging.

© Shutterstock

Chlorophyll -

Matcha is also high in chlorophyll, the pigment that gives the tea leaves their distinctive, bright green color.

© Shutterstock

Chlorophyll -

Chlorophyll is high in vitamins A, C, and E. The actions of these vitamins can benefit skin health.

© Shutterstock

Anti-inflammatory -

The EGCG antioxidant in matcha has strong anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties.

© Shutterstock

Joint health -

The EGCG, anti-inflammatory benefits of matcha can improve joint health and reduce knee pain.

© Shutterstock

Topical use -

You can make a face mask at home using matcha powder, to assist with reducing any inflammation and to help even skin tone.

© Shutterstock

Brain health -

In 2014, scientists at the University of Basel found green teas can improve cognitive function and working memory, making matcha a great choice for brain health.

© Shutterstock

Digestion -

Green teas like matcha are shown to improve digestion and to support healthy bacterial growth in the intestine.

© Shutterstock

Metabolism -

While metabolism might dip naturally with age, matcha increases thermogenesis. This is the rate that the body burns calories.

© Shutterstock

Preparation -

Take 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of matcha powder and add it to a bowl. Whisk the powder and the liquid together, to avoid clumps forming in the liquid.

© Shutterstock

Matcha latte -

You can drink matcha hot or cold. You can add milk to make a matcha latte, a coffee replacement that still provides a caffeine boost.

© Shutterstock

Food grade matcha -

It's easy to add matcha to smoothies, cakes, and deserts. The possibilities are endless!

© Shutterstock

Packaging -

Matcha is often sold in small tins or packets to preserve its freshness, helping to maintain its anti-aging benefits.

© Shutterstock

Storage -

Matcha should be stored in a cool, dry place away from light and moisture to preserve the quality of the powder.

Sources: (Britannica) (Well+Good) (The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition) (iHerb) (Body Ecology) (The Healthy Chef)

See also: 10 natural superfood powders to add to your diet today

© Shutterstock