The Rise of Matcha and its Benefits
- Amy Stanton
- Oct 27
- 3 min read
Updated: Nov 3
Matcha, the vibrant green tea powder with centuries-old origins, has surged in popularity worldwide. In this article, Maria Baeva explores its history, varieties, and health benefits, as well as the reasons behind its modern-day appeal.
Photo by: Sentidos Humanos
Walk into any coffee shop today and alongside the usual coffee
and tea options, you’ll likely spot a vibrant green addition to the
menu:Matcha.
While most certainly not a brand-new discovery, this green tea powder has recently taken the world by storm, with the demand for matcha beverages growing significantly on a global scale–particularly in the UK and the general West. But why?
What is Matcha?
Originating in China during the Tang Dynasty (618–907 C.E), the tea leaves that are used to make matcha are typically grown in the shade, giving it its classic bright green hue. The matcha powder is whisked with hot water to create a paste and then diluted with either milk or water for a more traditional drink.
This tradition was originally brought to Japan from China by Buddhist monks, who prepared the powder as part of the ritualistic chanoyu – translating to ‘hot water for tea’, ceremony. Today, Matcha can be categorised into three grades; ceremonial, daily and culinary.
Did you know? Matcha originated in China during the Tang Dynasty (618–907 C.E) and was later brought to Japan by Buddhist monks, where it became central to traditional tea ceremonies.
The Grades Of Matcha
Typically five to ten times more expensive than the other grades, ceremonial matcha is used in traditional Japanese tea ceremonies and is the highest quality available. The tea leaves tend to be younger and contain higher levels of chlorophyll, caffeine and L-theanine. The flavour is slightly sweeter, and unlike the other grades, mixing it with dairy or using it in cooking is not recommended
Daily grade matcha ranks second in terms of quality. Commonly served at coffee shops in latte-form or enjoyed at home, it is also suitable for cooking and baking. This matcha is more affordable and, although it contains less caffeine, L-theanine and chlorophyll than ceremonial grade, the levels remain relatively high.
Culinary grade matcha is intended for use in cooking, baking, supplements and beverages. Made from older tea leaves, it has a bold, slightly bitter flavour. It also contains the highest level of catechins—phenolic compounds and antioxidants—which contribute to its bitter taste, perfect for bringing depth to baked goods.
Matcha Moments: From Taste to Trends
Some matcha lovers enjoy the drink for its refreshing, albeit slightly grassy flavour, while others appreciate that it provides a natural caffeine boost that is notably gentler than coffee, without the side effects—nausea, jitters, or sudden energy crashes to name a few.
Another reason behind matcha’s seemingly sudden rise in popularity is its influence on the internet. The rise of ‘healthy lifestyle’ trends has led to an increase in content focused on wellness routines and eating habits. Creators on platforms like Instagram and TikTok—where the hashtag #matcha appeared in over 720,000 videos last year—often feature matcha in their daily routines, showcasing it as both a nutritious and aesthetic choice.
"This tradition was originally brought to Japan from China by Buddhist monks, who prepared the powder as part of the ritualistic chanoyu – translating to ‘hot water for tea’, ceremony." monks, who prepared the powder as part of the ritualiyu – translating to ‘hot water for tea’, ceremony."
The Benefits of Drinking Matcha
Beyond social media trends, matcha is widely praised for its many health benefits. High in antioxidants, it can help protect the body from 'free radicals', contributing to a boosted immune system and supporting healthy aging. Matcha also contains amino acids, specifically L-theanine which, studies have shown, helps reduce anxiety, stress and insomnia, conditions that are sometimes exacerbated by drinking coffee.
In addition to its calming and restorative properties, matcha provides a gentle, sustained energy boost. Unlike coffee, which can lead to sudden spikes and crashes, matcha helps maintain focus and mental clarity throughout the day, making it an ideal choice for work, study, or creative pursuits.
Beyond its physical benefits, matcha carries a soothing, almost meditative quality. The ritual of preparing and savoring a bowl of vibrant green tea encourages mindfulness and calm, offering a moment of pause in an otherwise busy day.
Final Reflections
With its vibrant colour, soothing flavour and long list of potential health benefits, it’s clear that matcha is more than just a passing trend. With roots stretching back centuries and a presence that is firmly embedded in modern wellness culture, matcha has proven itself to be both timeless and adaptable. From ancient tea ceremonies to day-to-day routines, it continues to be an uplifting coffee alternative—one cup at a time.
Similar articles: The Health Benefits of Green Tea
Researcher & Editor: Fran Wicks | Online Editors: Alison Poole & Amy Stanton
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