Why Matcha Should Be Your Go-To Daily Ritual

Angela Gioffre 擁有 25 年經驗的營養師。

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If you had an option to have a cup of standard of green tea or have a tea that has 137 times more antioxidants (catechins like EGCG), and more than 10 times the nutritional content…what would you choose?

For me it’s always got to be the latter..Matcha Green Tea.

Matcha is a type of powdered green tea made from finely ground, shade-grown tea leaves.

The shading process boosts the chlorophyll content in the leaves, giving matcha its distinctive bright green color.

Unlike traditional green tea, where leaves are steeped and then discarded, matcha powder is whisked into water, allowing you to consume the entire leaf and all its nutrients.

This vibrant green tea powder has been a staple in Japanese culture for centuries, enjoyed for its flavour but also its health benefits.

One of the key components of matcha that makes it so special is L-theanine, an amino acid that plays a crucial role in the human body.

This amino acid is found exclusively in tea plants – with matcha containing the highest concentration.

Its largely responsible for the calming effects of the tea – sounds paradoxical given that matcha also contains caffeine, but in combination they can have an incredible impact on your wellbeing.

L-theanine has many beneficial effects, one of them increasing the alpha brain waves. This is associated with with a state of wakeful relaxation, calm and focused without feeling sleepy…the symbiosis of both the caffeine and l-theanine.

The L-theanine also reduces the jittery feeling that some people experience with caffeine consumption…

Matcha isn’t just for tea though. It can be added to smoothies, cakes, salad dressings, savoury dishes and face masks.

It has a unique flavor profile, which is a balance of earthy bitterness with a subtle sweetness, and adds depth to both sweet and savory recipes.

Matcha Chia Pudding
Ingredients:
1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any milk of your choice)
2 tablespoons chia seeds
1 teaspoon Forest Superfoods matcha powder
1 tablespoon honey, maple syrup, or your preferred sweetener
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Fresh fruit, nuts, or coconut flakes for topping (optional)

Instructions:
In a bowl, whisk the matcha powder with a little bit of the almond milk until it forms a smooth paste. This helps prevent any clumps of matcha in your pudding. Then combine the remaining almond milk, chia seeds, honey and vanilla. Stir well. Place in the fridge.
Stir every 5 minutes for the first 20 minutes.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. The chia seeds will absorb the liquid and thicken, creating a pudding-like consistency.
Scoop the chia matcha pudding into serving bowls or jars. Top with fresh fruit, nuts, coconut flakes, or any other toppings you like.

MATCHA FACE MASK

Another fantastic way to use your matcha is in a face mask, Matcha is loaded with catechins, a type of antioxidant that helps neutralise free radicals, which can cause premature aging. The anti-inflammatory compounds in matcha can help reduce redness, swelling, and irritation, making it an excellent choice for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin.and the high chlorophyll content helps to detoxify the skin and promote a brighter, more even complexion. Over time, it can help reduce the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation.

Creating your own matcha face mask at home is simple and requires just a few ingredients. Here’s a basic recipe to get you started:

Ingredients:
– 1 teaspoon matcha powder
– 1 teaspoon honey (preferably raw)
– 1 teaspoon plain yogurt or aloe vera gel (for sensitive skin)
– A few drops of rose water or green tea (optional)

Instructions:
1. Mix the matcha powder with honey in a small bowl. Honey is a natural humectant, which means it helps retain moisture in the skin, leaving it soft and hydrated.
2. Add the yogurt or aloe vera gel. Yogurt contains lactic acid, which gently exfoliates the skin, while aloe vera is known for its soothing and moisturizing properties.
3. Optional: Add a few drops of rose water or green tea to enhance the mask’s hydrating and anti-inflammatory effects.
4. Apply the mixture evenly to your face, avoiding the eye area.
5. Leave the mask on for 15-20 minutes to allow the nutrients to penetrate your skin.
6. Rinse off with lukewarm water, gently massaging your skin in circular motions to exfoliate.
7. Pat dry and follow up with your favorite moisturiser to lock in the benefits. (we have a great Moringa Face oil that would help)