Matcha green tea powder is one of nature’s most impressive superfood. While EGCG catechins and L-theanine amino acid are exclusive* to the tea plant, good quality matcha tea provides nature’s highest source of them, along with viral inhibiting tannins, and theophylline for respiratory function.

Let’s Breakdown this Superfood!

Studies show that matcha’s EGCG catechin (antioxidant polyphenol)

  • Boosts the immune system by inhibiting oxidative stress that can cause immune dysfunction
  • Fights free radicals that weaken healthy cells and cause disease
  • May play a role in reducing the frequency of cell mutation1
  • Has antibacterial and antimicrobial properties
  • Reduces inflammation
  • Boosts metabolism when used regularly

Studies also show that matcha tea’s L-theanine amino acid

  • Helps the body fight germs
  • Reduces levels of the stress hormone cortisol
  • Increases dopamine, the feel-good hormone
  • Increases memory retention and recall, cognitive ability
  • Makes one feel satiated (less hungry)

Matcha green tea also naturally contains:

  • Tannins – studies show that tannic acid can inhibit certain viral replications 2
  • Theophylline (caffeine) – a methylxanthine known for usage in respiratory issues, dilating airways
  • Vitamin C – helps the body produce antibodies and is an essential nutrient for a healthy immune response.
  • Vitamin E – a powerful antioxidant that helps the body fight off infection
  • Zinc – zinc inhibits oxidative stress that can cause immune dysfunction 3

An Incomparable Superfood

Remember not all matcha tea is created equal! Make sure the matcha you buy comes from My Matcha Life – originates in Japan, is handpicked, stone ground in a facility that adheres to international food safety standards and is tested for heavy metals and radiation. Keep in mind, just because the label says organic matcha does not mean it’s a better matcha. There are many low-grade, unpleasant-tasting organic matcha on the market with little nutrients left in them. Look for ceremonial grades or premium grades.

* A few rare mushrooms also contain L-theanine in small amounts.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

References

1. Scientific Reports volume 9, Article number: 3842 (2019)
Green tea extract promotes DNA repair in a yeast model
Shin Yen Chong, Hsin-Yi Chiang, Tzu-Hung Chen, Yi-Ju Liang & Yi-Chen Lo

2. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2005 Jun; 2(2): 209–215.
Published online 2005 Apr 7. doi: 10.1093/ecam/neh081
Inhibition of SARS-CoV 3C-like Protease Activity by Theaflavin-3,3′-digallate (TF3)
Chia-Nan Chen,1,* Coney P. C. Lin,1,* Kuo-Kuei Huang,1 Wei-Cheng Chen,1 Hsin-Pang Hsieh,1 Po-Huang Liang,2 and John T.-A. Hsu1,3,†

3. Mol Med. 2008 May-Jun; 14(5-6): 353–357
Published online 2008 Apr 3. doi: 10.2119/2008-00033.Prasad
Zinc in Human Health: Effect of Zinc on Immune Cells