Have you ever wondered about the differences between green tea and matcha? These two popular beverages, both derived from the same plant, have been cherished for centuries but offer distinct qualities that set them apart.
This article will delve into these differences, helping you understand how each tea stands out and which might be the better choice for your preferences and wellness goals.
4 Key Differences Between Green Tea and Matcha
Green tea and matcha may seem similar, given they originate from the same parent (the Camellia Sinensis plant), but they possess four key differences.
Cultivation
Green tea leaves are typically grown under normal sunlight. In contrast, matcha leaves are shaded before harvest, which stimulates the plant to produce more chlorophyll and amino acids.
The shading process also gives matcha its vibrant green color and umami taste. This variation in cultivation techniques contributes to green tea and matcha’s unique characteristics and flavors.
Taste
Green tea often has a light and slightly grassy taste with hints of sweetness or nuttiness, depending on the variety.
Matcha boasts a rich and velvety flavor with a unique umami undertone. The concentrated flavors of matcha result from consuming the whole tea leaf, providing a more robust and invigorating taste experience.
Caffeine
Matcha contains more caffeine and L-theanine than regular green tea. Caffeine provides a sustained energy boost, while L-theanine promotes relaxation and alertness.
Preparation
As you would have picked up on, there are obvious preparation differences.
To enjoy green tea, steep the leaves in hot water for a few minutes, then strain and serve. Matcha requires a special preparation process involving a whisk and bowl. While both methods are relatively easy, the preparation differences add a touch of difference to the tea-drinking experience.
Benefits of Green Tea
Here are some of the main health benefits of drinking green tea:
- Cancer prevention: Green tea may help protect against several types of cancer, including prostate, breast, oral, stomach, and pancreatic cancer. The antioxidants in green tea, particularly EGCG, are thought to be responsible for this effect.
- Prevent stroke and heart attack: Drinking green tea is associated with a lower risk of heart attack, stroke, and heart disease. The polyphenols in green tea may help improve cholesterol levels and blood vessel function.
- Reduce diabetes: Green tea may help improve insulin sensitivity and reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes. The polyphenols in green tea may inhibit digestive enzymes and delay glucose absorption.
- Boost metabolism: The caffeine and catechins in green tea may help boost metabolism and increase fat burning, although the effect is modest. Drinking green tea can be a healthy replacement for sugary beverages.
- Prevent Parkinson and Alzheimer: The antioxidants in green tea may help protect the brain from aging and reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.
- Prevent tooth decay: Green tea naturally contains fluoride, which may help prevent tooth decay. The polyphenols in green tea also have antibacterial effects.
- Weight loss: According to a Maastricht University study, green tea can help with weight loss. Matcha
To get the most benefits, drink 3-5 cups of green tea per day.
How to Prepare Green Tea
Preparing different types of green tea requires careful attention to water temperature and steeping time to bring out its delicate flavors and health benefits.
- Heat water to 79°C to 86°C or 175 to 185°F. Avoid boiling water, as it can scorch the leaves and taste bitter.
- Place 1-2 teaspoons of loose green tea leaves into a strainer.
- Slowly pour the heated water over the leaves in the strainer.
- Steep for 1 to 3 minutes, depending on how strong you want your green tea.
- Lift the strainer from the teapot or cup, allowing excess water to drain back into the vessel.
And, voila, your green tea is ready to enjoy.
In the tea bag method, you don’t need a strainer. Simply add hot water and steep the tea bag in your cup for 1 to 3 minutes.
How Much Caffeine Is in Green Tea?
Green tea contains caffeine in lower amounts than matcha, black tea, and coffee. The caffeine content in green tea varies, typically ranging from 20 to 45 milligrams per 8-ounce cup, influenced by several factors:
- The type of green tea leaves: Younger, shade-grown leaves, such as those used for Gyokuro, tend to have higher caffeine levels.
- The growing conditions: Shaded plants produce more caffeine to protect against UV rays.
- The processing method: Teas processed quickly to prevent oxidation, like Sencha, retain more caffeine than those subjected to more extensive processing.
- Steeping time and water temperature: Longer steeping times and hotter water can extract more caffeine from the leaves.
Don’t like coffee but need caffeine? Sencha’s your best friend.
Benefits of Matcha
Due to its unique production process and consumption method, matcha tea is considered a more nutritious and antioxidant-rich form of green tea.
Here are the key benefits of matcha compared to regular green tea:
- Antioxidants: Matcha contains higher levels of antioxidants, particularly catechins, which are responsible for its health benefits. A study published in MDPI found that matcha contains up to 10 times more antioxidants than regular green tea.
- Improve brain function: The higher levels of L-theanine in matcha may improve brain function, memory, and concentration.
- Attention and alertness: Matcha contains more caffeine than green tea and also has L-theanine, which moderates caffeine's effects, enhancing alertness and reducing energy crashes.
- Cancer prevention: A study of Qatar University shows that matcha may prevent some types of cancer.
How to Prepare Matcha
You’ll need a matcha bowl (chawan), a bamboo whisk (chasen), a sifter, and a matcha scoop (chashaku).
- Boil water and cool to about 160-175°F (70-80°C). Avoid using boiling water, as it can make the matcha bitter.
- Measure 1-2 scoops (about 1-2 grams or ½-1 teaspoon) of matcha green powder into the sifter over the bowl. Sift the matcha to remove any lumps, ensuring a smooth consistency.
- Pour 2-3 ounces (60-90 milliliters) of hot water into the bowl.
- Hold the bowl steady with one hand and use the bamboo whisk with the other. Whisk briskly in a “W” or “M” motion until the matcha is frothy with tiny bubbles on the surface. The whisking should take about 15-30 seconds.
- You can add more hot water for a thinner matcha (usucha). Use less water and more matcha powder for thicker matcha (koicha).
New to making matcha at home? We have everything you need to prepare matcha in our matcha ceremony gift set.
How Much Caffeine Is in Matcha?
An 8-ounce cup of matcha typically contains between 34-70 mg of caffeine. This amount can vary depending on the amount of matcha powder used to make the tea and the brewing method.
Despite the higher caffeine content, matcha provides calm and focused alertness due to the presence of L-theanine. This amino acid promotes relaxation and mindfulness while subtly energizing the body, creating a balanced and refreshing experience.
What’s in Your Cup?
Both matcha and green tea present beneficial properties, such as lowering heart disease risk while providing a satisfying and soothing taste.
The one you choose depends on your circumstances.
Matcha tea suits best:
- After meals (especially if you’re experiencing a food coma).
- As an alternative to coffee when seeking a morning boost.
- Before a workout, when paired with high-protein soy milk.
- For stress relief, thanks to L-theanine.
Choose green tea for:
- Its overall health benefits include weight loss, detoxing, heart health, and diabetes prevention.
- General hydration throughout the day.
- Relief from headaches.
Remember to enjoy both as part of a balanced diet!*
*Note: Of course, if you have certain medical conditions or dietary restrictions, please consult your doctor before making any changes to your diet or routine.
