HEART
EGCG, the most talked about catechin in matcha, has been seen to support our overall cardiovascular system, reducing the risk of heart disease and supporting healthy artery functioning. For those who drink matcha regularly, its catechins work on our long term health to manage healthier cholesterol levels — naturally lowering LDL (bad) cholesterol levels while increasing HDL (good) cholesterol.
HORMONES + FERTILITY
To support your overall hormonal balance and fertility, you may want to add a cup or two of matcha to your morning routine. Research suggests it naturally balances our cortisol levels, which help steady our hormones, decrease stress and promote better sleep.
Green tea also plays a role in regulating levels of critical sex hormones (estrogen, testosterone, androgens, and other reproductive-related endocrine functions), working adaptogenically to harmonize and balance our complex endocrine system.
Matcha has been seen in animal studies to regulate levels of FSH (follicle stimulating hormone) and LH (luteinizing hormone) which trigger a woman’s cycle. In men, matcha protects sperm production and boosts libido — addressing any and all potential reproductive disorders. It has also been used to combat PMS symptoms and side effects of menopause.
IMMUNE SYSTEM
With such high levels of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, matcha is especially adept at enhancing our overall immunity. It offers 100x the number of antioxidants per cup than regular green tea, boosting our bodies capacity to heal. With the highest ORAC rating (a system that measures the antioxidant capacity of different foods) of any natural antioxidant source, matcha is one of the best foods you can consume for optimal health and vitality. For proper immune functioning, EGCG, the main catechin in matcha, is also particularly effective at calming internal inflammation and helping to regulate a proper immune response.
BRAIN
It’s L-theanine that balances the jitteriness of caffeine to provide us with a calmer form of energy. In the short term, this amino acid, rich in matcha, offers our brain a relaxed alertness, perfect for deep focus and meditation. When matcha is consumed daily for at least three months, it has been seen to enhance our overall brain functioning as well as protect against cognitive decline, dementia and memory loss.
SKIN + HAIR
Externally, when green tea is applied to the skin, it can protect us against UV damage and from certain conditions like rosacea, sun damage, acne and general redness.
Internally, we see that matcha prevents sebum buildup, which helps to reduce blemishes, and promotes blood flow to the skin, offering us a glowy, youthful appearance.
Matcha also works to support healthy hair growth — protecting against hair loss, decreasing split ends and potentially even slowing down the onset of premature graying.
METABOLISM + WEIGHT MANAGEMENT
To support a healthy body weight and increase your metabolism, reach for matcha. Regularly drinking matcha increases the rate at which we burn calories and elevates thermogenesis — our bodies ability to burn fat. Matcha also reduces insulin resistance and improve markers of fasting glucose, keeping blood sugar levels more stable throughout the day.
Due to its natural caffeine content, matcha can also boost our athletic performance, improve workout stamina, and even shorten our recovery time.