All About Matcha Green Tea
Tired of your normal coffee latte? Have you seen those oddly green drinks at the coffee shops, lately? Matcha Tea is likely the culprit. Matcha is made from the same plant as green tea – Camellia sinensis - and is known for its health benefits.
Health Benefits
This tea is high in antioxidants or polyphenols, as the entire tea leaf is used when ground and can boast a similar amount of caffeine to a cup of coffee. Antioxidants are tied to protection against heart disease and cancer, as well as improving blood sugar and blood pressure control and anti-aging.
One Caution
If you have a sensitivity to caffeine, you’ll want to limit your consumption. Side effects could include insomnia, irritability, diarrhea or heartburn when consumed in excess. Overall, you can safely drink a couple cups a day if you don’t typically experience negative symptoms to caffeine.
Variety of Options
Matcha tea is usually found in powder form and can be used as a healthy addition to a variety of items. Most popularly, a latte or lemonade. Matcha infused items can also include a variety of baked goods, ice cream, smoothies and really anything you want to add it to! You can find this trendy food at your local health food store.
Next time you are out getting an afternoon pick-me-up, try a Matcha Latte or make one at home!
Oat Milk Matcha Latte (Hot or Iced)
Recipe from TheHerbeevore.com
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon matcha powder
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 teaspoon agave nectar optional, or other natural sweetener
- 1 cup ice
- 1 cup oat milk unsweetened
Instructions
- In a glass, add 1/4 cup of water and matcha. Whisk together thoroughly, or stir with an electric blender.
- For a warm matcha latte: heat the oat milk and sweetener (if using), and pour over the matcha mixture.
- For an iced matcha latte: add 1/2 cup of ice cubes to the matcha, and pour oat milk and sweetener over the matcha, and stir. Enjoy!
