How Matcha Went From Ancient Ceremonial Tea to Health Drink Du Jour

More and more people are nowadays consuming matcha for both its herbal flavor and health benefits.

Matcha became known in the 11th century when Buddhist monks started using it in order to stay awake throughout the night. In America, it was actress Gwyneth Paltrow who advertised its miraculous effects. In regards to its origins, the tea comes from the camellia sinensis plant, cultivated for the first time in China. While the highest quality matcha, called ceremonial grade, was once reserved for royalty, everyday matcha, also known as culinary grade, is currently used for cooking.

Drinking matcha has plenty of benefits, according to the studies made on the topic:

• it provides beneficial antioxidants as well as polyphenols
• it has many active components that are good for your brain health
• it can reduce the risk of death from cardiovascular disease
• it cuts inflammation
• it slays viruses
• it can lower the risk of liver disease as well as the one of prostate cancer
• it reduces anxiety and improves focus
• it stimulates the memory
• it simulates and calms the nervous system at the same time.