Matcha Vs Green Tea: What's The Difference And Which Is Better

NDTV

5 days ago

When it comes to sipping your way to better health, both matcha and green tea are solid contenders. They come from the same plant, Camellia sinensis, but how they are grown, processed and enjoyed makes a world of difference. So, if you have ever stood in front of the tea aisle wondering what to choose, here is a lowdown to help you decide.
A Tale Of Two Teas
Let us start with the basics. Green tea is typically made by steeping whole leaves in hot water, while matcha is a fine powder made from green tea leaves that you whisk into hot water. With matcha, you are actually drinking the entire leaf. This distinction is more than just prep – it changes the game nutritionally.
As explained by ArtfulTea.com, green tea leaves are either steamed (as in Japan) or pan-fired (as in China), then dried and packaged. Matcha, on the other hand, comes from shade-grown tea plants – a process that boosts the chlorophyll and caffeine levels – and is stone-ground into a vibrant green powder.
Flavour And Feels
Green tea is known for its mellow, sometimes grassy taste. Steep it too long, though, and you might get a bitter brew (you are not alone if that has happened – it is a common complaint). Matcha, on the other hand, brings a stronger, creamier, umami-rich flavour – some say oceanic with a sweet and slightly bitter edge. You can also think of matcha as green tea's bold cousin.
The Buzz: Caffeine And Calm
Caffeine-wise, green tea is lighter. You will find roughly 28 mg per 8 oz cup, while matcha can pack up to 70 mg. But matcha also contains L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes calm without drowsiness. That is why many people describe matcha as giving a more focused energy compared to the jittery buzz of coffee.
Nutrients And Antioxidants
Both drinks offer antioxidants, but matcha is more concentrated. Because you are consuming the whole leaf, matcha contains higher levels of EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate) – the antioxidant superstar linked to anti-inflammatory, heart-health and even anti-cancer properties, according to health experts.
In fact, matcha contains up to 137 times more EGCG than certain green tea brands, according to research. That makes it a favourite for those looking to boost their antioxidant intake.
Weight Loss And Metabolism
Green tea and matcha have both been studied for their role in supporting metabolism. Green tea may lead to mild weight loss with a healthy lifestyle, though results are generally modest. Matcha, thanks to its higher EGCG content, has shown promise in small studies when consumed before exercise for improved fat burning. Still, as experts caution, more research is needed before calling either a miracle fat burner.
Cost And Convenience
Matcha typically costs more than green tea due to its labour-intensive production process. A box of green tea bags might cost you a few bucks, but a small tin of good-quality matcha could be significantly more – something to keep in mind if you are sipping daily.
Prep-wise, green tea is as easy as dropping a tea bag into hot water. Matcha takes a bit more effort. Ideally, you'll need a whisk, a bowl and some patience. But if you are into rituals (or frothy green drinks), it can be a calming little ceremony.
Final Sip: What To Pick?
So, which one should you pick? If you are looking for a light, refreshing tea with lower caffeine, green tea is your go-to. If you are after a more concentrated, antioxidant-packed energy boost, matcha might be your jam.
Either way, you are doing something great for your body – just do not overdo it on the caffeine, and watch the added sugar in those fancy matcha lattes. At the end of the day, it is not about which tea is better, it is about what works best for your taste, routine and lifestyle.