October 14, 2025 | 12:08 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Matcha has been around for thousands of years. Green tea powder is made from the Camellia sinensis plant, which was originally cultivated for tea production in China around 2700 BC. However, matcha gained popularity in Japan. Its popularity spread to various countries, including Indonesia.
Matcha is loved for its distinctive savory (umami) flavor and striking green color. This smooth and creamy drink is also soothing and cooling with a slightly bitter aftertaste. Furthermore, the powdered tea has a variety of health benefits.
Benefits of Matcha
Nichola Ludlam-Raine, a registered dietitian and author of "How Not To Eat Ultra Processed," explains that matcha is unlike regular green tea, where the tea leaves are brewed and then discarded. Matcha is consumed whole, meaning a higher concentration of nutrients and antioxidants. The leaves are grown in shade, which increases the chlorophyll content, giving matcha its bright green color.
Therefore, matcha is rich in antioxidants, especially a group called catechins. These antioxidants help protect cells from free radical damage. The most potent catechin in matcha, EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate), has been studied for its potential in supporting heart health and reducing inflammation.
"Matcha also contains L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes relaxation, which can improve focus and alertness," Nichola said, as reported by The Independent.
However, it's important to remember that despite its many health benefits, matcha consumption should be moderate. Matcha shouldn't be relied upon as a sole source of nutrition.
Caffeine in Matcha
Matcha is often a popular coffee substitute. Health-conscious people turn to this beverage because it can provide mitochondrial support and improve focus without the jitters and sluggishness that can be caused by too much coffee. For some people, the caffeine content in matcha is enough to trigger these feelings, depending on their tolerance and caffeine consumption habits.
Matcha contains a small amount of caffeine, typically 19–44 mg of caffeine per gram (a normal serving ranges from 2–4 grams). However, the amount of caffeine in matcha can vary based on several variables, including the quality and freshness of the leaves, the amount of powder used, and the brewing time.
Due to its L-theanine content, matcha is generally considered better for gut health than coffee. Coffee is more acidic, making it more damaging to the gut microbiome. Matcha also has prebiotic properties, which are reported to help reduce inflammation, bloating, and stomach discomfort that often occur after drinking other caffeinated beverages.
Editor's Choice: Safe Tips for Drinking Matcha
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