Imagine a perfect morning that starts with a cup of matcha—a drink that is rapidly gaining popularity among health-conscious people worldwide. But matcha is more than just tea. It has a long tradition and tea culture, is a source of energy, vitamins, and minerals, and can help with weight loss.
In this article, you will learn what matcha is, what effects it is said to have, the advantages and disadvantages of consuming it, and how it can support weight loss.
What exactly is matcha?
Matcha tea is a drink with a thousand-year history. The name “matcha” literally means “ground tea,” and that is precisely its main characteristic.
Unlike classic green tea, matcha is a fine powder made from the young leaves of the Camellia sinensis tea plant, which grow in the shade. This cultivation method increases the content of chlorophyll, amino acids, and antioxidants. When brewed, the powder is not steeped, but completely dissolved in water—so you literally drink the whole leaf and enjoy all the benefits and the full flavor.
Matcha is easily recognizable by its rich emerald green color and complex flavor profile. It combines nuances of fresh green, young bamboo, and light chocolate, while the aroma is reminiscent of a herbaceous and floral freshness.
There are different types of matcha, each with its own flavor, aroma, and intended use:
- Supreme Ceremonial (Grade A). It has a smooth, creamy flavor with minimal astringency. Ideal for traditional preparation and meditative tea ceremonies.
- Ceremonial (Grade B): Has a more pronounced character—sweet berry notes with a nutty aftertaste. Suitable for classic teas and more intense flavor combinations.
- Medium (Grade C): Characterized by a woody-floral aroma. Often used in cooking: for lattes, desserts, smoothies, and baked goods.
- Culinary (Grade D): The most tart and rich variety, ideal for gastronomic experiments and pastries. Genmaicha is one of the most unusual Japanese teas. It contains matcha and roasted brown rice. The result is a thick, nutritious tea with a slightly nutty aroma reminiscent of popcorn or kozinaki. Due to its low caffeine content, it is suitable for evening tea and is often enjoyed as a light alternative to meals. In Japan, it is even referred to as “geisha breakfast.”
Our ARTEAMONY shop offers a complete matcha range of the highest quality.
Difference: Is matcha green tea or something else?
At first glance, matcha may seem like just another type of green tea. After all, both are made from the same tea bush. In practice, however, the differences are much greater than one might think. Matcha is grown, processed, and consumed in a completely different way.
The main difference begins with the cultivation. For matcha production, the tea bushes are protected from sunlight for several weeks before harvest. This causes the leaves to accumulate more chlorophyll, amino acids, and valuable micronutrients. This gives matcha its intense color and high nutritional value. After harvesting, the matcha leaves are steamed, dried, and ground into a fine powder with a velvety texture.
The difference in taste is noticeable from the very first sip. Matcha is smooth and creamy, with herbal and slightly sweet notes and a silky, almost creamy texture. High-quality varieties are practically bitter-free and therefore require neither sugar nor milk. The powder foams easily and dissolves evenly in water without leaving a grainy feeling.
The main difference between matcha and green tea lies in the concentration of nutrients they contain. Since matcha is consumed as a whole plant, the body receives significantly more antioxidants, amino acids, and micronutrients. This is why many choose this drink for more energy, gentle support throughout the day, and weight loss.
Matcha production and origin (China vs. Japan)
Matcha powder is believed to originate in China, where Buddhist monks used it to increase concentration and achieve a meditative state more quickly. It was only later that the drink made its way to Japan, where it quickly gained popularity and became widely used in tea ceremonies, dishes, and traditional desserts.
Today, matcha is grown and produced in various Asian countries with suitable climatic conditions, such as Vietnam.
Matcha production is a complex, multi-stage process. Experienced tea masters use a special technology:
One week before harvest, the plants are shaded. This slows down growth and allows the leaves to absorb the maximum concentration of chlorophyll and other valuable ingredients.
The tender leaves are then picked by hand, preserving their integrity, and then steamed. All coarse leaf veins are removed, leaving only the tender parts of the leaves, called tencha.
The raw materials are then cold-dried and ground in special stone mills. The finished powder is packaged in airtight containers to protect it from oxygen and sunlight.
Matcha taste and quality: what to look for?
You can always recognize real matcha – even before the first sip. Its quality can be determined in seconds if you know what to look for. Three important indicators clearly reveal whether it is a premium product or just a poor imitation:
- The color is the first sign of quality. Genuine matcha always has a bright, rich emerald green color, like fresh spring grass. This color indicates that the tea leaves have been professionally grown, carefully dried, and protected from light and oxygen throughout storage.
If the powder appears dull, yellowish, or has a gray undertone, this is a warning sign. Most likely, the tea has either lost its properties due to improper storage or is not real matcha at all.
- The aroma is subtle yet distinctive. High-quality matcha has a soft and pure scent. Its aroma reveals a fresh, green note and a slight sweetness. If the scent is reminiscent of hay, fish, seaweed, or jasmine, it is either an inferior product or powder that has been improperly processed or exposed to air for a long time. Genuine matcha never has a strong smell.
The taste is the most important criterion. Good matcha develops gently and delicately. It offers a natural sweetness, creaminess, and balance without bitterness. The aftertaste is free of unpleasant notes. The time of harvest also plays an important role. Matcha harvested in early May is considered the most valuable: it has a richer flavor, a high antioxidant content, and a lively aroma. Later harvests tend to result in a more tart flavor profile—with noticeable bitterness and a lower nutrient concentration.
High-quality matcha is characterized by a harmonious interplay of color, aroma, and taste. It is not masked by additives and does not require sweeteners.
Matcha Collection
Sale price
€24,90100g
€120,00 / kg
Effect: Is matcha healthy for the body?
Before we address whether matcha is healthy for the body, let's first consider the basics, in particular the nutritional value of the tea:
- Calories – 289 kcal per 100 grams.
- Protein – 6.6 grams.
- Fat – 2.9 grams.
- Carbohydrates – 68.1 grams.
- Fiber – 8.3 grams.
The positive properties of matcha tea have been known for a long time. Connoisseurs report an energy boost, increased concentration, and more strength after consumption. Regular consumption can have an anxiety-relieving effect thanks to L-theanine, which stimulates the production of serotonin and dopamine (happiness hormones) as well as GABA, a neurotransmitter with a calming and stress-reducing effect.
Matcha is also a healthy alternative to coffee. Caffeine in tea is theine, which has a gentle effect on the body and provides long-lasting alertness and an energy boost.
Below, we explain in detail what matcha is good for and what ingredients it contains.
Ingredients: vitamins, iron, and chlorophyll
Matcha tea is rich in minerals and vitamins:
- Calcium – strengthens teeth and bones and supports normal metabolism.
- Potassium – important for muscle function.
- Fiber – promotes healthy digestion.
- Vitamin C – important for immune defense.
- Iodine – supports brain function and regulates metabolism.
- Fluoride – strengthens the skeleton and teeth and promotes hair and nail growth.
- Vitamin B1 – involved in protein and fat metabolism and normalizes the cardiovascular and nervous systems.
- Vitamin B2 – supports the central nervous system and the immune system.
- Vitamin B6 – aids protein digestion, increases stress resistance, and prevents skin diseases.
- Vitamin A – strengthens the immune system, contributes to the maintenance of vision, skin, hair, and bones, and is important for fertility.
- Vitamin P helps maintain balanced cholesterol levels, prevents inflammation and cancer, regulates blood pressure, hormone balance, and thyroid function.
Vitamin P Matcha also contains a small amount of iron. However, it is important to note that the tannins and catechins in tea can bind iron and impair its absorption. People with iron deficiency are therefore advised to drink matcha between main meals so as not to interfere with iron absorption from food. Chlorophyll, the green pigment or “green blood” of plants, is another valuable component of matcha. Incidentally, chlorophyll and hemoglobin molecules are almost identical in structure: chlorophyll contains magnesium, while hemoglobin contains iron. The high concentration of this valuable substance gives the tea its intense green color. Chlorophyll is known in medicine as a natural remedy with strong antioxidant and detoxifying properties.
Effect on skin, liver, and detoxification
Matcha has proven itself as a comprehensive detox drink. Chinese scientists have discovered that matcha green tea prevents liver disease thanks to the chlorophyll it contains, which enriches the blood with oxygen, stimulates blood circulation, and removes toxins and heavy metals from the body. In addition, matcha green tea powder can help prevent type 2 diabetes.
Matcha tea is rich in antioxidants (more than 130 times as much as conventional brewed green tea), making it a true superfood. The drink contains EGCG, an effective compound that prevents cancer through detoxification. Antioxidants promote optimal oxygen supply to muscle fibers, reducing lactic acid production and increasing athletic performance. The detoxifying properties of matcha also protect tissues and cells from aging and damage caused by free radicals. Matcha thus contributes to youthful skin, a radiant complexion, optimal hydration, and active protection and regeneration of the epidermis.
Matcha also supports intestinal health by promoting the growth of beneficial intestinal bacteria. The beneficial microorganisms it contains strengthen the immune system and reduce inflammation, while the tannins and fiber promote digestion and intestinal activity.
Matcha is good for teeth because it inhibits bacterial growth and thus tooth decay, and reduces bad breath thanks to its disinfecting and deodorizing properties.
Losing weight with matcha: metabolism and fat burning
Many nutritionists now recommend matcha tea for weight loss, highlighting its positive properties and metabolism-boosting effects.
Losing weight with matcha: Does it help burn fat? Let's find out.
Does matcha really help with weight loss?
Matcha is often referred to as a slimming drink—and for good reason. It can actually help with weight loss, not as a “miracle pill,” but as a useful supplement to a healthy lifestyle. Its benefits are best realized as part of a balanced diet and moderate physical activity.
How matcha affects weight loss:
- Boosts metabolism
Matcha is rich in catechins, natural antioxidants that stimulate thermogenesis, i.e., the body's heat production. This causes the body to consume more energy, even at rest. This effect speeds up the metabolism and makes calorie burning more efficient.
The mild caffeine in matcha further enhances this process and helps the body use energy instead of storing it.
- Supports the breakdown of fat deposits
EGCG plays an important role by promoting the breakdown of fats and their subsequent use as an energy source. Regular consumption of matcha in combination with physical activity helps the body burn fat more effectively, especially in the abdominal and waist areas.
- Reduces food cravings
Matcha helps stabilize blood sugar levels, reducing sudden hunger pangs and cravings for sweets. The L-theanine it contains provides a lasting feeling of satiety, making it easier to stick to a diet and avoid emotional overeating.
- Supports energy and endurance
Unlike coffee, matcha provides a steady and sustained energy boost. The energy is released gently, without sudden peaks and troughs. This is especially important for active people and anyone who exercises regularly.
- Promotes detoxification of the body
Its high antioxidant content makes matcha an excellent aid to gentle detoxification. The drink aids digestion, improves nutrient absorption, and helps the body eliminate waste products. A healthy gastrointestinal tract has a direct impact on metabolism and overall well-being. Matcha can be an indispensable aid in weight loss. It supports metabolism, helps curb appetite, increases energy levels, and promotes overall health. This is precisely where its main advantage lies—gentle yet continuous support on the path to balance and lightness.
Matcha tea for weight loss: how often should you drink it?
Using matcha tea correctly for weight loss maximizes its positive effects and leads to the desired results. Here are some helpful tips from experts:
- Drink the tea in the morning. Theine and catechins activate the metabolism and promote fat burning. You can also drink it during the day to reduce cortisol levels and appetite.
- The best combination for weight loss is matcha in conjunction with regular exercise. Drunk half an hour before training, matcha provides energy and vitality, increases endurance, and boosts metabolism.
- The recommended dosage is a maximum of 1–2 cups per day. More frequent consumption can lead to insomnia and other side effects.
- You need 1 teaspoon of powder for one cup of tea. It is best to brew the tea at a temperature of around 80 degrees Celsius to preserve all the valuable ingredients.
- To ensure this, prepare the tea immediately before drinking. Avoid drinking matcha with whole milk or sugar (honey or other sweeteners) – this increases the calorie content and reduces the positive effects. It is better to use low-fat or plant-based milk.
And remember: if you drink matcha with sweets and starchy foods, you can forget about losing weight.
Green Tea Collection
Sale price
€44,90144g
€280,00 / kg
Sale price
€12,908g
€1.360,00 / kg
Matcha or coffee? The caffeine comparison
Coffee addiction is widespread in the modern world. Many people can no longer start their day without a cup of this aromatic drink. Long-term and frequent coffee consumption can have negative consequences, including high blood pressure. The easiest way to overcome caffeine addiction is to offer the body a healthier and equally delicious alternative: matcha tea. Matcha instead of coffee: a healthy comparison!
Does matcha contain caffeine and make you alert?
Does matcha caffeine work: does it really make you alert? A typical serving contains the same amount of caffeine as a cup of coffee. The difference, however, is that the caffeine in the green powder is in the form of theine. It is well known that our bodies absorb simple molecules such as caffeine more easily. However, the caffeine in theine is bound, and breaking it down into simpler substances requires additional energy and time. After drinking a cup of coffee, the caffeine is quickly absorbed by the body. The absorption of theine is therefore delayed, giving matcha a noticeably longer and more subtle stimulating effect. In this respect, matcha is clearly inferior to coffee. It should be noted, however, that matcha tea itself is a very aromatic and refined beverage that is in no way inferior to coffee in terms of taste.
Side effects, safety, and risks
Are there any side effects associated with matcha tea? This is a valid and frequently asked question that requires closer examination. When consumed in moderation, matcha is a completely safe beverage. Nevertheless, there are a few points to consider. For example, allergic reactions to green tea and interactions with medications (e.g., blood thinners and blood pressure medications) are possible. Caffeine (theine) also has a diuretic effect and can lead to dehydration. Regular matcha drinkers are therefore advised to drink plenty of water.
If left in the mouth for long periods of time, the green powder can cause tooth discoloration and, in rare cases, especially when consumed on an empty stomach, aggravate acne. The popular matcha latte can also interfere with iron absorption.
To avoid side effects, matcha – like any other drink – should be enjoyed in moderation and spread throughout the day.
Matcha during pregnancy and breastfeeding
Are you expecting a baby and want to know if you can continue to enjoy your favorite drink? Matcha during pregnancy: yes or no? We shed light on the facts and dispel common myths.
Matcha tea is generally permitted during pregnancy, but like any other tonic, it should be enjoyed in moderation and with caution, taking into account your individual needs and well-being.
The benefits of the drink are obvious: as already mentioned, tea contains a variety of vitamins, trace elements, fiber, and antioxidants that are undoubtedly good for the body. However, these benefits must be kept in balance.
The main risk factor is caffeine, or more precisely, the high theine content. Although theine has a mild effect, excessive consumption can affect the mother's well-being (anxiety, increased heart rate, increased blood pressure, insomnia, and anemia), which in turn can have negative effects on fetal development.
Experts recommend:
- Limit your consumption of your favorite beverage to 1–2 cups per day so as not to exceed the recommended daily caffeine intake.
- Dilute the beverage or add milk to reduce the caffeine content.
- Talk to your doctor. A specialist will advise you on how to proceed, taking into account your pregnancy and medical history.
- Pay attention to your well-being. If you experience any discomfort after drinking tea, stop drinking it. Avoid matcha in the evening to ensure a deep and restful sleep.
Stomach, nausea, and digestion (Do not drink on an empty stomach!)
Matcha tea can be highly concentrated and, when drunk on an empty stomach, can sometimes irritate the mucous membranes, leading to heartburn, nausea, and stomach pain. If you have gastrointestinal disorders (gastritis, stomach ulcers, reflux), you should never drink matcha on an empty stomach. It is best to consult your doctor.
Matcha and blood pressure: high or low?
Japanese scientists investigated the effect of green tea on people with high blood pressure. The participants drank one to two cups of traditionally brewed green tea every day for several months. As a result, the subjects' blood pressure fell by an average of 10% and did not rise again by the end of the study. It is important to note that the green tea was prepared as an infusion. Matcha would therefore probably have achieved even more impressive results. Similar studies confirm a sustained reduction in blood pressure in patients with hypertension.
What does this information mean? Firstly, green tea lowers high blood pressure and therefore definitely does not raise it. Secondly, the drink has a cumulative effect, not immediately, but over time.
Since matcha is a powdered green tea, the same conclusions apply to it (although no comparable studies have been conducted). Due to its high concentration, an increase in blood pressure caused by the drink would be clearly noticeable even in small doses.
However, we recommend taking individual reactions and existing medical conditions (metabolic disorders, cardiovascular diseases) into account. If you experience any discomfort, do not drink more than two cups of matcha per day, observe the dosage, do not use water that is too hot, and prefer tea with milk.
Myths: Is matcha carcinogenic or does it cause infertility?
The claim that matcha is carcinogenic is a myth, as is the claim that powdered green tea causes infertility. There is no scientific evidence to support this assumption. On the contrary, moderate consumption can have positive health effects due to its high polyphenol content, which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The only warning concerns the temperature of hot drinks (including matcha): drinks that are too hot (above 65 degrees Celsius) can increase the risk of esophageal cancer. Therefore, matcha should be allowed to cool slightly before drinking. Clinical studies also confirm that there is no risk of infertility associated with the consumption of matcha. On the contrary, the antioxidants it contains could even potentially promote fertility.
Teaware Collection
Sale price
€69,90
Sale price
€69,90
Sale price
€24,90
Sale price
€7,90
Sale price
€6,90
Sale price
€5,90
Dosage and preparation: How do you drink matcha tea?
Matcha is more than just a drink—it is an entire ritual in which precision, temperature, and preparation method are crucial. These factors directly influence the taste, texture, and health benefits of the tea. Below you will find instructions to help you discover the full potential of matcha, whether you prefer the classic method or modern variations:
- Traditional method: Maximum flavor and maximum effect. The classic method of preparing matcha originates from the Japanese tea ceremony and is still considered the standard. It produces a rich, velvety drink with a characteristic foam.
Ideally, special utensils are used: a chawan (bowl), a chasen (bamboo whisk), a chashaku (measuring spoon), and a sieve. You can find a large selection of tea sets in our ARTEAMONY online shop.
The water is heated to 60–80 °C – boiling water destroys the flavor and valuable ingredients. The bowl is preheated, then the powder is sieved to avoid lumps. After adding a little water, beat the mixture vigorously until a soft foam forms. Only then add the remaining water.
The proportions depend on the desired strength:
- Koicha (strong tea) – approx. 4 g of matcha per 50 ml of water;
- Usutcha (a milder version) – 2 g per 70 ml of water.
It is best to drink the finished beverage immediately, while the tea particles are still settling and the flavor is at its best.
- Even without special accessories, matcha can be easily integrated into modern everyday life. Instead of traditional utensils, a normal cup, spoon, and whisk—manual or electric—are sufficient. A milk frother is also suitable.
The proportions remain the same.
A practical rule of thumb: 1 g of matcha corresponds to a slightly heaped teaspoon; a standard glass holds approx. 250 ml. This method quickly produces a rich and creamy drink without losing any of the flavor. The simplest preparation method is to prepare it without whisking.
- If you are in a hurry, you can use a glass with a tight-fitting lid. Add hot water, sprinkle in the powder, close the glass, and shake vigorously until the powder has completely dissolved. It is then recommended to strain the drink. This method is simple and effective—especially when you're on the go or at the office.
- Alternative ways to enjoy matcha: Matcha goes well with other ingredients and can be easily integrated into your daily diet:
- Smoothies and cocktails – they add freshness, a pleasant bitter note, and increase the nutritional value. Goes well with fruits, nuts, chia seeds, and flax seeds.
- Matcha latte – a classic with milk, which softens the tea flavor. Both cow's milk and plant-based milk alternatives are suitable.
- Green latte – matcha with hot water and frothed milk, optionally with honey or syrup.
- Matcha Raf – a variation with warm cream and a soft, creamy texture.
- Iced matcha latte – a refreshing drink with ice, milk, and concentrated tea.
- A frosty latte is a mixture of milk, ice, and sweetener.
- A matcha cappuccino combines a tea base with light and airy milk foam.
In addition to beverages, matcha is also widely used in cooking: it is added to baked goods, creams, ice cream, sauces, marinades, and even soups. Not only does it give dishes a vibrant color, but it also enriches their flavor with subtle herbal notes.
The right dosage and preparation method allow matcha to unfold in all its glory – from invigorating classics to light dessert variations.
Conclusion: Why you should buy matcha
In summary, high-quality matcha is not only a modern trend, but also a healthy drink for your well-being. Its rich aroma, pleasant color, and numerous positive effects of regular consumption—thanks to its vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants—make it an indispensable part of the diet for anyone who values their health.
The easiest way to order high-quality matcha is from the ARTEAMONY online shop. Our consultants will be happy to answer your questions, help you choose the perfect green tea variety, and process your order quickly and reliably. We deliver throughout Europe.
Buy, try, experiment, and brighten up every day with matcha tea!
