You most likely have heard of green tea and matcha. These teas may seem similar, but there are some differences, including caffeine and antioxidant levels. Discover where they originate, how they're made, and how each tea is prepared.
What is Green Tea?
Green tea is a popular product worldwide, loved for its taste and health benefits. It's made from Camellia sinensis leaves with minimal processing. This method keeps its natural green color and fresh flavor intact.
There are many green teas, each with its own taste. Popular ones include Sencha, Dragon Well, and Gyokuro. They can be purchased as loose leaves or in tea bags
What is Matcha?
Matcha is a unique green tea prepared differently from other varieties. Rather than steeping leaves, matcha consists of a fine powder that is blended with hot water to create a frothy beverage.
Differences Between Green Tea and Matcha
Both green tea and matcha come from the same plant but are produced in different ways. Green tea is prepared with uncut leaves, while matcha is made into a powder. This changes how they taste and look, as well as their nutrients.
One serving of matcha contains more caffeine and antioxidants than normal green tea because it contains the entire leaf. This means a bigger energy kick and a bolder flavor.
Matcha preparation also requires a little more ritual. To achieve its signature froth, many people use a bamboo whisk (chasen). Green tea is simpler, requiring just an infuser or teapot.
Where It Comes From
Green tea and matcha tea are derived from the same plant, Camellia sinensis; however, they undergo different processing methods.
Green tea is made from whole leaves that are steamed and then sun-dried. To make matcha, the plant is shaded for three weeks to boost chlorophyll and enhance its green color. The large leaves are then collected, steamed, and dried before being ground into a fine powder.
Brewing and Preparation Methods
To prepare matcha, mix the powder with hot water using a bamboo whisk (like the one included in our Matcha Set until it becomes frothy. This produces a thick, strong drink. To prepare green tea, steep the leaves in hot water for several minutes before straining.
How It Tastes
Matcha has a rich, savory taste and a creamy texture, while green tea is more subtle. Matcha is more intense because you consume the entire leaf. Green tea has a light, refreshing taste with a slight grassy flavor. It's less robust since you only drink the infusion.
Texture Differences
Texture also distinguishes matcha from green tea. When you drink matcha, the powder blends with the liquid, making it creamy and thick. Unlike matcha, green tea is clear and smooth. The texture of matcha adds to its unique drinking experience.
Caffeine Content
Matcha and green tea both contain caffeine. However, matcha has more concentrated caffeine levels because it involves grinding the tea leaves into a powder, allowing you to consume the whole leaves. This process also alters the type of energy you receive.
More specifically, matcha provides calm alertness, which many people like better than coffee. Coffee can make you feel jittery, while matcha gives a caffeine boost without the edginess. Green tea has less caffeine than matcha and provides a softer energy boost.
Health Benefits
Matcha and green tea are often celebrated for their potential wellness benefits, supported by both tradition and research. Here are some of the most discussed associations:
- Packed with antioxidants. Both teas are rich in catechins that help protect cells from oxidative stress, with matcha offering especially high levels.
- Balanced energy and focus. Thanks to the combination of caffeine and L-theanine, they’re often linked to calm alertness and improved concentration.
- Supports heart health. Compounds like EGCG have been studied for their potential to support cardiovascular and metabolic function.
- Associated with skin health. Antioxidants in these teas are often credited with helping to protect skin from environmental stressors.
- May aid physical endurance. Green tea has been linked to improved fat oxidation during exercise, which can help sustain energy.
Potential liver support. Research suggests matcha’s antioxidants may play a role in supporting liver function.
A Tasty and Healthy Drink
Matcha and green tea share roots but deliver very different experiences. Green tea is light and refreshing, often blended with jasmine, mint, or other flavors. Matcha is bold, creamy, and versatile—perfect for lattes, smoothies, or even desserts. If you’re ready to explore the full ritual at home, our Matcha Set is the perfect place to start.