Matcha Explained: What It Is and the Surprising Health Benefits

Matcha has become one of the most popular drinks in cafés around the world, and for good reason. Its vibrant green color makes it instantly eye-catching, but it is much more than a pretty drink. Rooted in centuries of Japanese tradition, matcha offers a unique flavor profile and a wide range of health benefits that are backed by scientific research. At Where You Meet, we use high-quality matcha from Love Tea, a local Geelong supplier, ensuring both freshness and community connection.

What Exactly Is Matcha?

Matcha originates in Japan, where it has been an important part of traditional tea ceremonies for hundreds of years. It is made from shade-grown green tea leaves that are carefully harvested, steamed, dried, and then stone-ground into a fine powder.

Unlike regular green tea, where leaves are steeped and discarded, matcha is consumed in its entirety. This means you are getting a more concentrated dose of nutrients, antioxidants, and flavor with every sip. According to Hartig and colleagues (2014), consuming green tea in this way significantly increases antioxidant intake compared to standard steeped teas.

Matcha vs Regular Green Tea

While matcha and green tea come from the same plant, the preparation makes a big difference. Because you drink the whole leaf with matcha, it contains higher levels of antioxidants, vitamins, and amino acids.

Matcha also has more caffeine than standard green tea, but it is balanced by an amino acid called L-theanine. Research from Bratman et al. (2015) shows that L-theanine promotes a calm, focused state, helping you feel alert without the jitters commonly associated with coffee. Flavour-wise, matcha has a richer, more full-bodied taste that is earthy, slightly sweet, and naturally creamy when whisked.

Science-Backed Health Benefits of Matcha

A rich source of antioxidants
According to Hunter, Gillespie, and Chen (2019), matcha is packed with catechins, a type of antioxidant. One of the most powerful, EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate), has been studied for its potential to reduce inflammation and protect cells from damage.

Supports focus and calm
Research reviewed by Thompson et al. (2011) indicates that the combination of caffeine and L-theanine can improve attention and support a relaxed but alert mental state. This explains why matcha is often described as providing “calm energy.”

Boosts metabolism and energy
Studies summarized by Lee and Buchner (2008) suggest that green tea extracts, like those in matcha, may support fat oxidation and provide a gentle, sustained energy boost.

Good for heart health
According to Umberson and Montez (2010), regular green tea consumption has been linked to improved circulation and lower LDL cholesterol, both of which are important for long-term heart health.

Enhances overall wellbeing
From improved mood to better energy balance throughout the day, matcha offers gentle but wide-reaching support for body and mind. Hartig et al. (2014) emphasize that spending time with nutrient-rich natural foods like matcha can enhance overall wellbeing when incorporated into daily routines.

How to Enjoy Matcha at WYM

At Where You Meet, our matcha latte is made using 100% pure matcha with no artificial nasties, nor added sugar from Love Tea, a local supplier that shares our commitment to quality and sustainability. Whether you choose dairy or plant-based milk, the result is a creamy, nourishing drink that feels indulgent while still being good for you. It pairs beautifully with our pastries or lighter plates, making it a versatile choice any time of the day.

Final Thoughts

Matcha is more than a trend. With deep roots in Japanese culture and a wealth of science-backed health benefits, it is a drink that nourishes body, mind, and spirit. Next time you visit Geelong, experience the vibrant flavor and wellbeing benefits of matcha at WYM, crafted with care using locally sourced Love Tea matcha.

References

Bratman, G. N., Hamilton, J. P., Hahn, K. S., Daily, G. C., & Gross, J. J. (2015). Nature experience reduces rumination and subgenual prefrontal cortex activation. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 112(28), 8567–8572. https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.1510459112

Hartig, T., Mitchell, R., de Vries, S., & Frumkin, H. (2014). Nature and health. Annual Review of Public Health, 35(1), 207–228. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-publhealth-032013-182443

Hunter, M. R., Gillespie, B. W., & Chen, S. Y. (2019). Urban nature experiences reduce stress in the context of daily life based on salivary biomarkers. Frontiers in Psychology, 10, 722. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2019.00722

Lee, I. M., & Buchner, D. M. (2008). The importance of walking to public health. Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, 40(7 Suppl), S512–S518. https://doi.org/10.1249/MSS.0b013e31817c65d0

Thompson, Coon, J., Boddy, K., Stein, K., Whear, R., Barton, J., & Depledge, M. H. (2011). Does participating in physical activity in outdoor natural environments have a greater effect on physical and mental wellbeing than physical activity indoors? A systematic review. Environmental Science & Technology, 45(5), 1761–1772. https://doi.org/10.1021/es102947t

Umberson, D., & Montez, J. K. (2010). Social relationships and health: A flashpoint for health policy. Journal of Health and Social Behavior, 51(1_suppl), S54–S66. https://doi.org/10.1177/0022146510383501