Matcha instead of coffee? Green tea powder is becoming increasingly popular for an energy boost

What is matcha?

Matcha is a fine powder made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant, which is an integral part of Japanese tea culture. With its bright green color and slightly sweet, earthy taste, it differs from the characteristic roasted aroma of coffee. Although its caffeine content is lower than that of coffee – a cup of matcha contains 38-89 mg of caffeine, compared to 100-120 mg of coffee – its effect is felt longer and more evenly.

The secret to calm alertness

One of the unique features of matcha is the presence of L-theanine, which helps the caffeine absorb more slowly. This combination results in a boost of energy that doesn’t come with the sudden energy surge or jitters that coffee can cause. “Matcha is a gentle energizer, but it also gives you a sense of calm,” says Mina Grace Ward, who switched to the drink for health reasons. Clinical social worker Joshua Sprung also highlighted that matcha’s energy lasts longer and provides balanced concentration.