Davao del Norte — From being exclusively used for traditional Japanese tea ceremonies, matcha green tea has increasingly become a popular beverage in the Philippines, from cafés, milk tea bars, to health food establishments. Aside from its bright green color and earthy flavor, experts point to matcha's myriad of health advantages, supported by contemporary scientific studies.
In contrast to normal green tea, matcha is prepared by whisking powdered tea leaves into milk or water so that consumers can swallow the whole leaf. This mode of preparation yields higher levels of nutrients and antioxidants.
Rich Source of Antioxidants
Matcha contains particularly high levels of catechins, a class of plant compounds with antioxidant effects. Of them, the most researched, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), is associated with decreasing inflammation and defending cells against oxidative stress. Matcha, the Journal of Chromatography A reported, has as much as three times more EGCG than regular green tea.
Calm Energy and Focus
Filipinos increasingly resort to matcha as a less harsher substitute for coffee. One serving contains approximately 70 milligrams of caffeine — enough to kick in, yet countered with L-theanine, an amino acid that encourages relaxation and clarity of the mind. A study published on Nutrients indicates that the pair may enhance concentration while alleviating stress and anxiety, making it perfect for students and professionals.
Heart and Metabolic Health
Green tea drinking has long been linked to better cardiovascular well-being. Matcha, having higher concentration, can potentially bolster these effects. A Current Medicinal Chemistry review mentioned that catechins assist in reducing LDL ("bad") cholesterol and maintain healthy blood lipid levels. Research also indicates that green tea extracts can be useful for weight management, helping boost metabolism — a selling point many Filipinos are attracted to in pursuit of healthier living.
Liver Support Potential
Early studies also indicate potential liver-protective properties. In the International Journal of Preventive Medicine, scientists discovered that green tea extracts reduced liver enzyme levels in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Although more research is required, practitioners speculate that matcha's high antioxidant content could provide similar benefits.
Emerging Popularity in the Philippines
Throughout the nation, matcha is no longer a specialty product. In major metropolises such as Davao, Cebu, and Manila, milk tea shops and coffee chains already include matcha-based beverages in their menus. Online stores and specialty health food stores also sell matcha powder for home preparation, which resonates with health-conscious Filipinos who prefer to add it to smoothies, baked goods, or traditional hot tea.
A Balanced Choice
Health practitioners advise that although matcha has distinct nutritional benefits, it should also be consumed in moderation and not used as a medical alternative. Nevertheless, for most Filipinos, a cup of matcha is both a rejuvenating ritual and a healthy supplement to daily habits.
