For the Love of Green Tea...

For many tea lovers, there is nothing better than a cup of green tea but when we speak about Japanese green tea, this is on another level.

Japanese green tea has been around since the 8th century and is one of the oldest teas in the world. The colour is a vibrant green symbolizes earth in its wholesome ways. The notes are slightly sweet with an earthy flavour. Sencha and matcha are the popular teas from Japan. Sencha has very green and has a sweet, grassy flavour. Matcha can be strong and very herbaceous. It can also be bitter in flavour if it is brewed too long. This is typically why it is encouraged to use particular temperatures when steeping these blends.

The big question is - what is the difference between Japanese green tea and Chinese green tea? It really is the processing. Japanese green tea like sencha and matcha are gently steamed to keep its green vibrancy. Chinese green tea is lightly roasted which will give it a nutty flavour and also more of a golden, olive look. Both equally delicious. It really comes down to the mood of the tea lover and what their taste buds are craving.

While Japanese green tea does contain caffeine, it is significantly lower containing 14-60mg of caffeine per 8 ounces. This will also depend on how much tea is used to make a brew. Coffee contains anywhere from 80 -200mg per 8 ounces. The caffeine in green tea has a calming effect while still encouraging alertness. Green tea has a more soothing effect on the body and is still able to work the circadian cycle (internal clock).

Green teas are also considered unoxidized teas because of its gentle and clean processing. When oxidation is less, it provides more benefits and keeps the nutrients intact.

Let's talk about the relaxing properties:

• L-Theanine is a relaxing amino acid and is high in green tea.

• Green tea contains L-theanine, a unique amino acid that is essential and directly influences brain chemistry.

• High in antioxidants and may boost immunity.

• Increases alpha brain wave activity

• Promotes relaxation without sedation.

• May support digestion and also supports the gut.

• Reduces physical and mental stress.

• Enhances cognitive focus.

• Helps to increase and release neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin. These are the hormones that are like "happy hormones".

While green tea contains caffeine, its interaction with L-theanine creates a distinctly different experience from coffee or energy drinks. The caffeine provides subtle alertness, while L-theanine smooths out potential jitteriness. This is another reason why this tea is so widely enjoyed in the evening or sometimes before bed.

Culturally, Japanese green tea has been used for ceremonial purposes as well as encouraging social interaction. It is quite common to have a cup between meals, during a meal and after for the powerful relaxing and digestive properties.

This beverage is delicious on its own or in a blend. Flavours like Sencha and matcha are timeless and will not be going anywhere any time soon.

If you are already a fan, keep indulging and if you have not tried- you may find a new love in this wonderful tea category.