- Origin
Japan
- Format
Ceremonial-grade powder
- Best time
Morning
What it is
Matcha is the powdered leaf of shade-grown Camellia sinensis, ground on granite stone in a tradition refined over five centuries in Japan.
How it works
Caffeine drives alertness; L-theanine smooths it. The combination is associated with focused calm rather than stimulant edge. EGCG is a polyphenol with antioxidant activity.
The protocol
1–2 g whisked into hot (not boiling) water in the morning. Avoid drinking it directly with iron-rich meals.
Sourcing
Ceremonial-grade only for daily use. Bright jade colour, fine texture, and a sweet vegetal aroma are the markers.
Honest caution
Caffeine sensitive? Start with half a serving. May reduce non-heme iron absorption — separate from iron-rich meals by an hour.
What it supports
- Focused calm — Caffeine + L-theanine produce alertness without jitter.
- Antioxidant support — EGCG content rivals — and exceeds — most other teas.









