The common denominator of both matcha and green tea is that they both come from a plant called Camellia Sinensis. Although quite similar in features and health benefits, they have their differences that make them distinct from the other. In terms of taste, since the matcha powder is derived from 100% green tea leaves, this makes matcha more concentrated in flavor and with more richness in flavor than that of green tea. Let’s discover the differences between matcha vs green tea.
Matcha vs Green Tea
Color
In color, the hue of matcha appears as a vibrant green color as that of green tea, which appears as a dull brown color. The reason behind this is because of the high levels of chlorophyll of matcha.
Taste
In taste, green tea has a higher tendency to taste bitter than that of matcha which is why more people choose matcha instead. Matcha has a naturally buttery taste than that of green tea, without any artificial sweetener being added.
Processing
In processing, green tea leaves are being used to make matcha powder, which is a process done by hand. The stems and veins are being removed from the green tea leaves themselves, which would lead to the leaves being crushed into matcha powder.
Preparation
On the other hand, the preparation of green tea involves soaking parts of leaf in hot water. In preparation, both need hot water but the difference is in the temperature requirements.
Nutrition
a) In terms of nutrition, the ECGC of matcha is 134 milligrams, while the ECGC of green tea is 63 milligrams. ECG acts as antioxidants that are very beneficial to the health that help fight diseases such as diabetes.
b) Tannins (micronutrients coming from plants) of matcha are 99 milligrams, while green tea contains just 7 milligrams. Numerous tannin compounds are carcinogenic- which is a substance that destroys cancer cells. This is beneficial to reduce stress levels and lower heart rate.
c) The L-theanine (amino acid improving brain function) is found in both matcha and green tea containing 45 milligrams and 3 milligrams respectively.
Conclusion
Overall, it’s about preference on the choice between matcha vs green tea. Each drink has its specific benefits in health, flavor and bodily function. Matcha generally has more advantages than that of green tea like the naturally buttery taste without any artificial sweetener being added, however, both have really similar features and health benefits. If you’re craving for a drink that boosts your energy and benefits your health at the same time, matcha is the right choice for you. After all, matcha contains more antioxidants than that of green tea. However, green tea may be more cost-efficient than that of matcha. In the end, the choice is yours on which drink makes you feel more at ease in the comparison of matcha vs green tea.
