Matcha 

As we know it today, matcha has taken the world by storm, capturing the attention of tea enthusiasts, health conscious individuals, and social media influencers alike. From its ancient Chinese origins to revered status in Japanese tea ceremonies, holding its current status as a trendy beverage on a global scale is a testament to this superfood's appeal. In exploring the rise of matcha, we will trace the evolution of matcha from its production, the chemical composition as an antioxidant, and the diverse psychological effects on our bodies’ nervous system, including our cognitive functions. Additionally, we will explore the cultural and societal forces behind its meteoric rise, shedding light on how matcha has become not just a beverage, but a symbol of holistic well-being in contemporary society.

Though one may assume matcha’s origins being tied solely to Japan, the plant itself first originated in what we know now as present day Guighou and Yunna, province of China. While there are no official records documenting the arrival of matcha plants in Japan, it is widely believed that the seeds were brought by monks approximately 1200 years ago (Bhandari 2022). 

The plant responsible for producing matcha is known as Camellia Sinensis, which also produces other forms of tea that we are familiar with such as black, green, and oolong tea. The difference between teas like matcha green tea or black tea is due to the harvesting process. Unlike other loose leaf tea, matcha is grown with a different set of standards that gives it this characteristic vibrant green color and unique flavor palette. It is the first harvest of the season that yields some of the highest quality matcha that will be produced over the year. The leaves that are chosen are only among the youngest as they are packed with the most nutrients (Kochman 2020).

The quality of matcha and key differences between high and low grade matcha can all be related back to the harvesting process. When the first harvest comes around in late April to May, only the youngest and freshly sprouted leaves are picked. This process is done by hand, as workers carefully pick only the top layer of leaves that are vibrant in color. The highest quality of matcha is known as “ceremonial grade,” as it is the grade of matcha that will be used in traditional tea ceremonies. Non-ceremonial grade matcha will be referred to as “culinary grade,” and is the type of matcha found in your typical pastries or beverages. These matcha leaves will be picked during the second or third harvest of the year (Bhandari 2022). 

What makes matcha harvesting different from collecting other forms of teas is the process that occurs right before the harvesting. The matcha plants are covered from the sun which drastically changes the chemical composition of the leaves itself and is also the key step in producing the highest quality of matcha (Farooq and Sehgal 2018). This shading keeps the younger plants from developing too fast and producing the bitter taste found in mature leaves. Instead, it allows the younger leaves to preserve higher amounts of chlorophyll (Horie 2017; Unno 2018).

When the leaves are finally collected, they are sent off to the steamer which will keep the leaves from losing their bright green color, and from oxidizing which would actually turn the leaves into black tea. After the leaves are dried, they are pulled apart including the stems, veins, and impurities all being separated to help produce higher amounts of amino acids and bioactive compounds in the finished product (Farooq and Sehgal 2018). Afterwards, they are sent to the mill where they will be ground up and turned into a powdered form. 

HOW IS MATCHA ENJOYED? 

JAPANESE TEA CEREMONIES 

The Japanese tea ceremony holds deep symbolic significance within Japanese culture, encapsulating values of harmony, respect, tranquility, friendship, and also serves as a means of artistic expression and spiritual practice. Similar to how the Russians would use bread and salt to welcome their guests, traditional tea ceremonies signify the cultural values that go beyond the food itself (Colas 2024). 

CHEMICAL COMPOSITION 

One of the most unique characteristics about matcha is its intricate chemical composition, which sets it apart from other types of tea and also gives the tea a long list of health benefits. Unlike other forms of loose leaf teas where the leaves are soaked and enjoyed, matcha is consumed in its powdered form which naturally allows the powder to be fully consumed when mixed with liquid and ensures that every nutrient-rich element from the tea leaf is to be retained (Farooq and Sehgal 2018). This is also part of the reason why someone might consume a higher dose of caffeine when consuming matcha. High grade matcha will naturally contain a higher amount of caffeine and again is due to the harvesting process and shading from sunlight, allowing the younger leaves to retain their chemical properties (Goto et al.1996; Ikegaya et al. 1984).

With this reputation of being a healthy beverage, often marketed as a good alternative with high caffeine content, there is a long list of health benefits, characterized by its high concentration of catechins. These catechins are a form of polyphenols, and are known for their high concentrations of antioxidant properties, such as anti-inflammatory effects (Bhandari 2022). Interestingly, while matcha initially contains lower levels of catechins compared to other forms of tea, when introduced to water, the matcha actually releases around three times more catechins than in its powdered form, contributing to therapeutic effects (Fujioka et al. 2016). Matcha also has more antioxidants than traditional forms of green tea, hence why it can be used as a stimulant for a number of health reasons, even towards disease. 

While 60-70% of the insoluble ingredients are fat soluble vitamins, insoluble dietary fibers, chlorophylls, and proteins, the remaining 30-40% are soluble and include polyphenols, water-soluble vitamins, caffeine, water soluble dietary fibers, amino acids, saponin, and minerals (Maeda-Yamamoto et al. 2013). This genetic composition is what makes up the anti-inflammatory and cancer-fighting properties. In addition to catechins and caffeine, theanine is an amino acid that is known to affect cognitive function such as impacting our attention span. The combined effects of theanine, caffeine, and catechins can help enhance cognitive functions (Ruan et al., 2010). This blend of bioactive compounds not only contributes to matcha's vibrant green color and distinct umami flavor, but also proves its status as a superfood known for its holistic health benefits (Wolf et al., 2008). As we delve deeper into the chemical makeup of matcha, we uncover the various types of health properties that give us insight to why matcha is so revered in society today. 

COGNITIVE FUNCTIONS

A major appeal of consuming matcha besides its symbolism of cultural heritage and craftsmanship is the direct therapeutic effects when consumed. Studies have shown that the health benefits of consuming matcha can be associated with various improvements such as in our cognitive functions. By examining the studies used in the research published in the Current Research in Food Science journal, we will look into the effects of matcha such as reducing stress, anxiety, and more. Study findings were conducted on both humans and mice, offering us valuable insights into the effects. By examining the impact of matcha consumption on both humans and mice, researchers were able to gain a better comprehensive understanding of what kind of research still needs to be done, laying the groundwork for further research (Bhandari 2022).

As we previously discussed, caffeine, theanine, and catechins are all bioactive compounds found within matcha. These compounds specifically are also associated with the cognitive benefits that come with consuming matcha. For a long time, caffeine has been a well known psychoactive stimulant in which many people will specifically consume for the increased alertness and enhanced cognitive performance (Smit and Rogers 2000; Snel and Lorist 2011; McLellan et al. 2016; Panza et al. 2015).

  Unlike in other beverages however, the caffeine consumed in matcha is paired with the effects of theanine which is known to provide a soothing and calming effect, as well as being linked to improved focus and concentration (Dietz and Dekker 2017). In fact, caffeine enhances the effects of theanine which improves attention span and can help us with our long-term memory. This pairing of caffeine and theanine balances each other out, providing a boosted increase in cognitive functions while also acting as a de-stressor with improved attention span. While other forms of caffeine may also promote alertness and enhanced cognitive functions, it may also result in side effects such as heightened anxiety, jitters, or crashing energy. This is a large reason why matcha’s bio compounds together form a unique effect that offer a different experience to other caffeinated beverage options. Lastly, with the addition of catechins, matcha also offers a number of antioxidants that help when dealing with stress and inflammation in the brain. This paired with theanines effect of relaxation and improved mental clarity all come together to positively impact the brain's cognitive functions (Bhandari 2022).

Now when looking at the studies done on humans, results gave insight into how the consumption of matcha influences cognitive performance, stress levels, and the different physiological markers. It was found that in general, consuming matcha can help with several preventative measures in the brain. “Therefore, ingestion of compounds with antioxidant activity like matcha can prevent cognitive impairment as a result of oxidative damage (Baluchnejadmojarad et al. 2009). Matcha can also protect the integrity of the antioxidant systems in the liver, brain, and blood, preventing cognitive damage (Kim et al. 2020).” 

HOW IT BECAME TRENDY 

After looking into the genetic makeup of matcha and examining the numerous health benefits, it’s no wonder this ingredient is popular today. As the health benefits play a pivotal role in matcha’s positive impact on society, we will also look into the growing trend of matcha and its symbol in contemporary society today. In terms of the industry, matcha is set to grow exponentially in the future and continue to expand its market value. Currently, the industry stands at $3.8 billion and is predicted to grow to a whopping $6.10 billion in the next five years or so (Serim 2023). The potential profit of the matcha industry is evident, as we continue to witness this growth in popularity within our modern day. 

Over the past decade or so, technology has transformed the way that society is able to communicate with each other via the internet. It is through the internet that communities are formed and trends are made. With the growth of social media over the years, influencers and celebrities have gained extra attention, creating content and a chance to connect with their fan base. Matcha has benefited from this growth in content and discussion surrounding the beverage, with social media influencers showcasing it in their daily lives, creating aesthetics towards a certain lifestyle. 

INFLUENCERS

Simultaneously, these influencers are also benefiting from creating content revolving around trends that ride on matcha’s popularity. Larger youtubers such as Emma Chamberlain and “Ur mom ashley” are very successful within their own right, catering towards younger female audiences. By creating day in the life content that often features matcha, both creators have expanded their business by starting their own matcha brands. While these youtubers cater towards a younger female demographic, matcha itself is not specific towards any one gender. Although certain foods could be associated with different gender roles, matcha’s popularity is influenced by various factors beyond gender, such as taste preference, health considerations, and appreciation towards craftsmanship to name a few. "Customer demographic and gender preferences in matcha consumption are widely observed trends in contemporary food culture (Open AI, retrieved 3/20/2024)."

CONCLUSION 

In conclusion, while matcha has circulated over social media and has been gaining popularity globally, the allure of matcha stays true to its roots and cultural heritage where it all begins as a simple seed in the ground. The advertisement of matcha and its trendy value match its positive impact on society and highlight matcha’s unique personality and the lifestyle it promotes. It has become a symbol of cultural heritage, craftsmanship, and holistic well-being. With high regards to its country of origin, matcha has cemented itself as a top beverage in today’s day and age. Making its way over to a new country, Japan has meticulously cultivated and set standards, bringing matcha into a higher grade, and used in history for the sanctity of unity and respect. Matcha not only represents good health and spirituality, but refinement, hard work, and the dedication that goes into upholding historical standards and keeping this culture and tradition very much alive in today’s modern society. 

Looking ahead towards the future, the matcha industry continues to grow, as well as its influence on a global scale. Ongoing research continues forward, shedding light on its numerous health benefits. Matcha’s popularity is not only a testament to its flavor and enjoyment by the public, but fosters the opportunity for more people to learn about its origins and promote cross-cultural understanding. This deep appreciation from Japan towards the way they cultivate matcha serves as a reminder why food is such a powerful symbol of our cultural heritage, connecting us together as we share our tradition and values.