What Is Matcha and Why It’s Different from Green Tea

What Exactly Is Matcha?

Matcha is a finely ground powder made from shade-cultivated Japanese green tea leaves (tencha). Unlike regular green tea, which is steeped and discarded, matcha is whisked into water so you consume the whole leaf, delivering a richer flavor and greater nutrient density.

Matcha vs. Regular Green Tea

Three core differences set matcha apart: cultivation, preparation, and intake. Matcha is grown in shade for ~3 weeks before harvest, which increases chlorophyll and sweet, savory L‑theanine. It’s then stone-milled into a delicate powder. Because you drink the entire leaf, you take in a more concentrated dose of antioxidants and amino acids than steeped green tea.

Key Differences at a Glance

• Leaf quality: young, first-harvest leaves vs. mixed harvests.

• Cultivation: shade-grown ~3 weeks vs. full sunlight.

• Preparation: whisked powder vs. steeped leaves.

• Nutrient intake: full-leaf consumption vs. partial extraction.

• Taste: smooth umami with low bitterness vs. light or grassy notes.

Benefits You Can Feel

Matcha’s unique combo of natural caffeine and L‑theanine delivers steady energy and calm focus, without the jitters or crash of coffee. It’s also rich in catechin antioxidants (especially EGCG), linked in research to metabolic support and overall wellness.

How to Prepare Ceremonial Matcha

• Sift or scoop 1 teaspoon (≈2 g) of BENBU ceremonial-grade matcha into a bowl or cup.

• Add 60–80 ml of hot water (≈75–80°C / 167–176°F).

• Whisk briskly in an M‑motion until a fine micro-foam appears.

• For a latte: pour over steamed or iced milk. Sweeten to taste.

The BENBU Difference

We source authentic Japanese matcha from regions known for rich, volcanic soil and time-honored craftsmanship. Our small-batch, shade-grown leaves are stone-milled to preserve aromatics and color, then packed fresh so you enjoy a smooth, vibrant cup every time.

Ready to experience matcha at its best? Explore BENBU ceremonial-grade matcha for a clean, focused start to your day.