Matcha Tea: More Than Just a Green Trend
Our last two blogs explored collagen supplements & creatine, this week we’re continuing the wellness theme with another popular player: matcha tea. It’s gained huge popularity in health and lifestyle circles, but what actually is it? I’ve introduced it into my own daily routine and without a doubt, I have a clearer head through the rest of the working day. Looks like it will ceremoniously be added to my monthly subscribe and save order!
But, am I kidding myself or is it really “better” than other teas? What are its true health benefits, and can it help with inflammation, energy, or even pain?
Let’s take a closer look.
What is Matcha?
Matcha is a powdered form of green tea made from specially grown and processed tea leaves. Unlike regular green tea, where you steep the leaves and discard them, matcha is whisked directly into water or milk — meaning you consume the whole leaf. This gives matcha a far more concentrated dose of its active compounds.
Matcha plants are shade-grown for a few weeks before harvest, which boosts their chlorophyll and amino acid content. The leaves are then steamed, dried, and finely ground into a bright green powder.
Why Is It Different?
Whole-leaf consumption means you’re getting more antioxidants and nutrients per serving than steeped green tea.
Higher EGCG content – matcha contains a powerful antioxidant called epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), known for its anti-inflammatory and cell-protective effects.
L-theanine + caffeine combo – this amino acid promotes calm alertness and smooth energy without the jittery crash that coffee can cause.
Health Benefits of Matcha
1. Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Support
Matcha is rich in polyphenols and catechins, which are known to reduce oxidative stress and may help regulate inflammatory pathways in the body. This makes it an intriguing option for people dealing with chronic low-level inflammation.
2. Brain Function and Focus
Studies suggest that matcha can support cognitive performance, memory, and mental clarity — especially during times of stress or fatigue. The presence of L-theanine helps promote calm focus, which makes matcha a favourite among those seeking productivity without the crash.
3. Metabolic and Cardiovascular Benefits
Matcha may help regulate blood sugar, support lipid balance, and maintain vascular health. It’s also being studied for its effects on fat metabolism and energy expenditure, with some findings suggesting it may gently support weight management when combined with a healthy lifestyle.
4. Exercise Recovery and Fatigue
Early research indicates that matcha may reduce fatigue markers, assist with muscle recovery, and even support adaptation to physical training. While more robust studies are needed, it’s a promising area for those who train regularly or deal with ongoing physical fatigue.
Could Matcha Help with Pain or Inflammation?
While matcha is not a substitute for pain management or structural treatment, its anti-inflammatory properties could be relevant for those dealing with chronic musculoskeletal discomfort or inflammatory conditions.
It’s not a “magic fix,” but it may offer gentle support to those managing low-grade systemic inflammation alongside other therapies like osteopathy, exercise, and good nutrition.
Things to Know Before You Buy
Caffeine content: Matcha contains more caffeine than regular green tea, so be mindful if you’re caffeine-sensitive.
Quality matters: Look for organic, ceremonial-grade matcha from a reputable source. Poor quality matcha can be bitter and contain additives or contaminants.
Powdered format: Matcha is best prepared using a whisk with hot (not boiling) water, or blended into a latte.
Dosage: Around 1–2 grams daily is typical. Start small and see how your body responds.
Final Thoughts from the Treatment Room
As an osteopath, I’m always curious about natural ways to support wellbeing. Matcha isn’t going to fix an injury or replace manual therapy, but it could help support energy levels, inflammation control, and cognitive clarity — all of which are crucial for healing and recovery.
If you’re already paying attention to your sleep, hydration, movement, and diet, then matcha could be a great addition to your daily routine.
And yes — it really does taste better when you’ve whisked it properly! I have mine every morning after breakfast chilled with added milk and ice, although I am yet to try putting it in a green smoothie - will get round to that one!
References
Iwai, Y. et al. (2021). Vascular aging and neuron density preservation by matcha tea ingestion.
Kim, et al. (2020). Matcha effect in reversing high-fat diet induced cognitive dysfunction.
Koláčková, K., et al. Health Benefits and Chemical Composition of Matcha Green Tea.
Ahmed, S. and Stepp, J.R. The review on matcha: Chemical composition, health benefits, with potential application.
“Health Benefits of Matcha Tea” – Harvard Health Publishing.
“Matcha: More Powerful Than Regular Green Tea?” – Healthline.
“Matcha and Fatigue Reduction in Exercise” – Nutrition Journal.