Category: Matcha

Matcha's vibrant green hue is often its most distinguishing feature, but a deeper understanding reveals it's more than just a color. So, does matcha tea count as green tea? In fact, all matcha is a form of green tea, but not all green tea is matcha, a distinction that arises from unique cultivation and processing techniques.

Matcha, a potent form of green tea, is celebrated for its health benefits, yet its concentrated nature means that side effects from overconsumption are more likely. For high-quality varieties like Yame matcha, understanding these potential issues is key to enjoying its benefits without compromise.

According to the company, less than 1% of Japanese tea fields are certified organic, yet Jade Leaf Matcha sources exclusively from organic family farms in Japan. This dedication to sourcing from traditional regions like Uji and Kagoshima is a strong indicator that Jade Leaf Matcha is indeed authentic matcha.

Decaffeinated matcha powder is a commercially available product that retains many of the health benefits of its caffeinated counterpart. By using gentle decaffeination methods, manufacturers can remove most of the caffeine, allowing sensitive individuals to enjoy the rich flavor and nutritional value without the jitters. This makes it a perfect alternative for evening consumption or for those trying to reduce their caffeine intake.

According to a study published by the NIH, matcha's unique combination of caffeine and L-theanine promotes a state of calm alertness. So, does Jade Matcha have caffeine? Yes, but its effect is not the same as a typical caffeine jolt, offering a more sustained energy release.

According to scientific research, caffeine consumption can temporarily increase cortisol levels in the body. However, the key difference with matcha is its unique combination of caffeine and the amino acid L-theanine, which modulates the body's stress response and prevents the cortisol spike associated with coffee.

Over 90% of matcha drinkers struggle to get a consistent, creamy microfoam, but a simple technique known as the 30/20/10 rule for matcha can change that. This method breaks down the whisking process into three timed stages, ensuring even suspension of the powder and a perfectly smooth, frothy finish.

Pure, ceremonial-grade matcha powder contains virtually zero sugar. So, is it okay to add sugar to matcha? While it's a common practice for modern palates and popular drinks like lattes, adding sugar can significantly impact the traditional flavor profile and potentially negate some of the tea's core health benefits.

According to one study, matcha has up to 137 times more antioxidants than regular green tea. But does sweetened matcha still have benefits when you add sugar? While the core nutrients remain, the overall health impact depends heavily on the type and quantity of sweetener used.

A 2023 study published via the National Institutes of Health found that Jade Leaf culinary grade matcha contains approximately 47.95 mg of EGCG per gram, while their ceremonial grade contains 49.03 mg per gram. This data provides a precise answer to how much EGCG is in Jade Leaf matcha and highlights the brand's consistency across grades.