Catechins in green tea are known to have extensive health benefits. Matcha powdered green tea is believed to have higher levels of catechins compared to ordinary brewed green teas (Camellia sinensis).
The authors have developed a rapid test for determining levels of catechins in plant material and found that Matcha green tea contains as much as 137 times more epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) than China Green Tips green tea.
Green tea has been shown to be antioxidant and its consumption seems to reduce ischemic heart disease. Green tea (EGCG) use also seems to reduce cancer risk for several types of cancer.
Matcha green tea is grown in 90% shade. The entire leaf is ground to a powder using a stone mill and consumed in warm water rather than as a hot water extract of whole leaves. Matcha green tea is consumed traditionally in Japan with a bowl and a whisk.
CONCLUSION: Drinking Matcha powdered green tea gives more than 100 times more EGCG then drinking ordinary types of green tea made with whole leaves. EGCG can reduce cancer risk, reduce cardiovascular disease and reduce tissue oxidation.
NOTE: Catechins are part of a class of chemicals called polyphenols, a flavonol. EGCG is one type of catechin and it is known to reduce angiogenesis. Angiogenesis plays a role in cancer growth and macular degeneration. EGCG of green tea may also play a role in stimulation of the growth of stem cells. Green tea seems to be protective in colon and pancreatic cancer.
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PMID: 14518774.
Summary #242.