Health Benefits of Matcha: Antioxidants and Chlorophyll

The way in which matcha is grown (see our matcha), and the way it is ingested (by consuming the whole leaf - not just the brewed water) - mean that matcha delivers a strong concentration of antioxidants and chlorophyll.

So much so, in fact, that the University of Colorado found that matcha actually contains 137x the antioxidants found in standard green tea.

Antioxidant properties

In comparison to other 'superfoods' such as gojiberries, acaiberries, pomegranate, and blueberries, matcha contains more than 6x the level of antioxidants according to ORAC (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity) ratings.

This means, it is very effective at neutralising and removing oxidants and free radicals from the body.

Oxidative damage can be caused to the body after intense physical exercise, and foods of high antioxidant content can help to prevent this damage occuring - making matcha a perfect post-workout cuppa (or you can even add the powder to your protein shake).

Chlorophyll content

Not only does the chlorophyll content in matcha help to give it the vivid green colour you see in your cup, it also delivers a number of health benefits.

Chlorophyll helps to regenerate our bodies at both a cellular and molecular level by providing cleansing, healing, and infection-fighting properties. Because of this, health products high in chlorophyll are often used during detoxification treatments.

Chlorophyll consumption is also linked to an increase in the production of red blood cells - suggesting that it may also increase oxygen utilisation in the body.

Because matcha is shade-grown during the final few months of harvest, the leaves on the plant fill with a heavy concentration of chlorophyll as the plants work harder to try to photosynthesize. This means matcha contains a higher concentration of chlorophyll than all other green teas.

To discover even more health benefits of drinking matcha, return back to the health benefits page.