What is matcha?

Article published on March 18, 2026.

Reading time: 10 min — everything you need to know in one article

Japanese matcha is now one of the most sought-after ingredients in cafés, bakeries, and wellness routines. Its vibrant green color catches the eye, its flavor captivates, and its health benefits are winning over more and more people. Yet behind this popularity lies an agricultural product of great complexity, the result of a demanding craft passed down for over 800 years.

This comprehensive guide to matcha answers all your questions: what it really is, its history, how it’s grown and processed, its health benefits, and—most importantly—how to choose and prepare matcha properly to get the most out of it.

Written by the team at Milia Matcha, a French brand specializing in premium Japanese matcha, this guide has one goal: to give you all the information you need to understand, choose, and prepare your matcha—with full confidence.

 

Understanding Matcha

1. What is matcha?

The word matcha (抹茶) comes from Japanese: ma (抹) means “ground” and cha (茶) means “tea.” Literally: a green tea ground into a very fine powder, made from leaves grown according to a specific protocol, then slowly ground between granite millstones.

Matcha differs from other teas primarily in the way it is consumed. Unlike traditional green tea, which is steeped, matcha is mixed directly with water and then drunk as is. This means the entire leaf is consumed, not just the infusion. This difference may seem subtle, but it has a significant impact on the concentration of bioactive compounds. Indeed, as Joanna Kochman and her team pointed out in the scientific journal Molecules (2020), consuming the whole leaf allows for the absorption of significantly more catechins, L-theanine, and antioxidants than the infusion alone. 

Beyond offering a different way to enjoy tea than what we’re used to, it is this unique quality that accounts for matcha’s distinctive texture, its intense aroma, and its high content of bioactive compounds. 

Tencha: What Most People Don't Know

Before being ground, the leaf used to make matcha has another name: tencha. This is a little-known step, yet it is key to understanding what sets true matcha apart from ordinary green tea powder.

To become tencha, the leaves are grown in the shade, the young shoots are selectively harvested, quickly steamed to halt oxidation, dried, and then carefully stripped of their stems and veins. It is only at this stage—and only after being ground between millstones—that tencha becomes matcha.

Why is this distinction important? 

Many of the powders sold under the “matcha” label around the world are not made from tencha. They are simply ordinary green tea leaves that have been mechanically ground into powder: they have a dull color, a coarse texture, and a bitter taste. Recognizing real matcha starts with understanding what tencha is.

Cultivars: The Personality of Matcha

Matcha is made from the Camellia sinensis, the tea plant. But within this species, it is the cultivars— carefully selected and cultivated varieties, that determine the quality, color, and flavor profile of matcha.  

Our Okumidori matcha plantations in Mie, Japan. © Milia Matcha

The three main varieties used for matcha are: 

• the Yabukita, the most common and easiest to grow
• the Saemidori, prized for its sweet notes
• theOkumidori, the rarest of the three, which produces a deep green matcha with a harmonious flavor profile and naturally very low bitterness

2. Where does matcha come from? 

Born in China, preserved by Japan

The history of matcha began in China between the 7th and 13th centuries. During the Tang and Song dynasties, the Chinese produced tea compressed into cakes, which were ground into powder and then whisked into hot water: this was the direct predecessor of matcha. In the 12th century, the Buddhist monk Eisai brought this practice to Japan, where it became deeply rooted in the culture and formed the foundation of the tea ceremony, the chanoyu.

1391: The decree that changed everything

In 1391, a pivotal event changed the course of tea history. Emperor Hongwu of the Ming Dynasty banned powdered and compressed tea throughout China, deeming it too elitist. China then abandoned steaming in favor of pan-firing, giving rise to the teas we know today: Longjing, Oolong, white tea…

The art of making powdered tea has disappeared from China in the span of a single generation.

Japan, for its part, continues on its current path. Unfazed by this imperial decree, it retained the steaming method, refined its tea culture over the centuries, and preserved an art that the rest of the world had abandoned. That is why, today, matcha is an exclusively Japanese specialty. Not because Japan invented it, but because it is the only country to have preserved it.

Matcha is not just powdered green tea. It is a tradition dating back more than 800 years, one that Japan is the only country in the world to have preserved, and it is this historical distinction that makes it unique and irreplaceable.

3. How is matcha made?

Understanding how matcha is made means understanding why its quality can vary and why high-quality matcha is worth the price.

Shading: The 30 Days That Change Everything

Our Okumidori matcha plantations in Mie, Japan. © Milia Matcha

About three to four weeks before harvest, the tea plants are covered with nets or tarps to shield them from direct sunlight. This step, shading, is one of the most critical in the entire production process.

By depriving the leaves of light, a series of natural reactions is triggered: the plant increases its production of chlorophyll (hence the intense green color), slows its growth, develops sweetness at the expense of bitterness, and finally concentrates L-theanine. Shade cultivation triggers a biochemical mechanism that limits the conversion of L-theanine intocatechins, leading to a significant accumulation of this compound in the final leaf, as demonstrated by Joanna Kochman and her colleagues in a review published in 2020. It is thanks to this technique that matcha develops its smooth texture and characteristic flavor, while offering a profile rich in L-theanine, which is beneficial for relaxation and concentration.

Hand-picking: myth or reality?

It is common to read that premium matcha is harvested by hand. It’s an appealing image, but the reality is more nuanced: harvesting is now almost exclusively mechanized, even for high-end matcha. Hand-picking requires a large, highly experienced workforce, making it rare and very expensive. These exceptional, hand-picked matcha varieties remain in Japan and are reserved for traditional tea ceremonies.

What truly sets a premium matcha apart is not the harvesting method, but rather the harvest grade, the cultivar, the richness of the soil, the duration of shading, and the care taken at every stage of production throughout the year. The first harvest (ichibancha, late April–May) yields the leaves richest in amino acids, with the mildest and most refined flavor; it is the only harvest that produces ceremonial matcha. Subsequent harvests yield matcha of intermediate quality, followed by a more bitter culinary matcha, suitable for baking. 

Some matcha sold under the label “Ceremony”—which is supposed to refer to the first harvest—actually comes from the second or even the third harvest, as these leaves are less expensive to purchase. This shows just how much the origin and harvest grade influence the taste and quality of matcha.

From leaf to powder

After harvesting, processing follows a precise sequence. The leaves are sorted, then steamed at 100°C to halt oxidation and lock in the green color. They are then dried and stripped of their stems and veins, retaining only the finest and most tender parts. At this stage, the leaf has become tencha and can be vacuum-sealed and stored for several years before being ground. Finally, to ensure the quality of the matcha, the tencha must be stored for at least 4 to 6 months before being ground. Therefore, promoting “new matcha” as early as April or May is not a reliable indicator of quality.

Grinding is the final and most delicate step: the tencha is slowly ground between two granite millstones, a process that takes about an hour to produce just 30 grams of powder. This slow grinding is essential: it prevents overheating, which could alter the aromas, and produces an extremely fine powder. It is at this precise moment that tencha becomes matcha.

What “100% Japanese” Really Means

Matcha can be processed in Japan but made from leaves grown in China or elsewhere. It can then be legally marketed as “Japanese matcha,” even though it is not produced in Japan.

True Japanese matcha means that every step of the process—from cultivation to grinding—takes place in Japan. That’s why it’s essential to make sure that all these steps are carried out in the same location in Japan when choosing your matcha.

 

Choosing and preparing matcha

4. What are the health benefits of matcha?  

Because you consume the entire leaf, matcha contains bioactive compounds in concentrations far higher than those found in traditional brewed tea. Three benefits have been particularly well documented.

Clean and sustainable energy.

Matcha contains both caffeine and L-theanine. Caffeine provides stimulation, while L-theanine moderates its effects and promotes a state of calm alertness. The synergy between caffeine and L-theanine in matcha has been documented in a review article by Sokary and colleagues, published in 2022 in Current Research in Food Science : this combination produces a more stable and longer-lasting stimulating effect than caffeine alone, without the spikes of nervousness associated with coffee.

An exceptionally high concentration of antioxidants.

Matcha is particularly rich in catechins, notablyEGCG (epigallocatechin gallate), one of the most powerful antioxidants known. Its concentration is significantly higher than that of brewed green tea, since the entire leaf is consumed. These compounds help protect cells against oxidative stress and support the body’s natural defenses.

Skin and radiance.

According to the study by Rovaldi and colleagues (International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2025),EGCG neutralizes the free radicals responsible for skin aging: wrinkles, loss of elasticity, dull complexion, and dark spots are all signs that these molecules accelerate over time.

Recent research also shows that catechins help reduce sebum production and improve skin elasticity with regular use (Zheng, Antioxidants, 2024). According to Rovaldi, these same molecules show promising effects against acne, psoriasis, and skin irritations (International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2025).

5. How do you choose high-quality matcha?

The matcha market has grown significantly in recent years, and with it, so has the confusion. Here are five criteria that will help you distinguish high-quality matcha from an ordinary product.

Color is the first clue: high-quality matcha is bright and vibrant green. A dull, khaki, or yellowish hue indicates poor quality, a late harvest, or an oxidized product.

The origin is crucial: make sure the matcha is 100% produced in Japan, from cultivation to grinding. Matcha processed in Japan using leaves grown elsewhere is becoming more common as this market grows, but while this practice is legal, it results in a less authentic product of inferior quality.

The harvest grade : Premium matcha must come from the first harvest (ichibancha), in late April–May. Indeed, the concentration of L-theanine varies by grade. It gradually decreases from the first ceremonial harvest to the food-grade variety as the leaves age. This direct relationship between leaf maturity and its chemical profile has been precisely documented and quantified in matcha grown in the Uji region. Toniolo and colleagues used NMR spectroscopy to analyze leaves at different stages of development, demonstrating how the concentration of catechins, L-theanine, and other key compounds changes as the plant grows (A comparative multianalytical approach to the characterization of different grades of matcha tea, 2025). These scientific findings confirm that the selection of young leaves is not merely a tradition: it is essential for producing matcha that is rich in flavor and nutrients.

The cultivar : Specifying the cultivar used (Okumidori, Saemidori, Yabukita) is a sign of reliability and traceability. Furthermore, a single-blend matcha—that is, one made from a single cultivar without any mixing—guarantees optimal traceability and a more consistent quality.

Testing and Traceability : Organic certification is costly and difficult to obtain for small-scale Japanese farms. Independent analyses published by the producer, such as Eurofins certifications, often offer more reliable guarantees than mere claims of organic status.

 

6. How do you prepare matcha? 

Making matcha is simple, but a few basic rules make all the difference.

© Milia Matcha

Pure matcha

You’ll need about 1 to 1.5 g of matcha (one level teaspoon), 70–80 ml of water at 70–80 °C, a bowl or large mug, and ideally a bamboo whisk (chasen) and a fine sieve.

Start by sifting the matcha directly into your bowl—this prevents clumps and ensures a smooth texture. Then pour in water at 70–80 °C. Never use boiling water: above 80°C, matcha develops a pronounced bitterness and certain aromatic compounds break down. Finally, whisk with quick “W”-shaped motions for 20 to 30 seconds, until a fine, even foam forms on the surface. Enjoy immediately.

Matcha latte

Prepare the matcha with just 30–40 ml of water, then add hot or cold milk, depending on your preference. Oat milk and hazelnut milk pair particularly well with the earthy notes of matcha.

Iced Matcha

Dissolve the matcha in a little warm water, then pour it over ice cubes. Add plant-based milk to make an iced matcha latte.

Preservation

Matcha is sensitive to light, air, heat, and humidity. Make sure to reseal the package tightly after each use and store it away from light and heat sources. When stored properly, matcha retains its freshness and intensity for several weeks to several months, depending on the packaging.

 

Conclusion

Matcha is much more than just a wellness trend. It is a beverage rooted in over 800 years of Japanese history and culture, enjoyed today in traditional ceremonies as well as in cafés around the world as a latte, iced matcha, or served straight.

Behind every cup lie tangible, scientifically proven benefits: gentle energy without jitters, an exceptional concentration of antioxidants, and recognized effects on mental clarity—benefits you’ll experience no matter how you enjoy it.

Finally, as Borsato (2024) points out, the chanoyu, the Japanese tea ceremony, transforms every gesture surrounding matcha into a mindful ritual, blending ancestral know-how with Zen philosophy. 

Understanding where it comes from, how it’s grown and processed, and what sets true matcha apart from ordinary green tea powder—that’s what makes all the difference when it comes to fully appreciating it, cup after cup.

Want to put these tips into practice? Discover Milia Matcha

 

 

FAQ

Does matcha contain more caffeine than coffee?

No. A cup of matcha contains about 30–70 mg of caffeine, compared to 80–120 mg in a cup of coffee. But the effect is different: L-theanine moderates the stimulating effects of caffeine, making them gentler and longer-lasting.

Why are some matcha teas very bitter?

Excessive bitterness is often a sign of late harvesting, inferior quality, or water that is too hot during preparation.

What is the difference between ceremonial matcha and culinary matcha?

Ceremonial matcha comes from the first harvest and is intended to be enjoyed as a beverage. Culinary matcha, made from later harvests, is more bitter and robust, making it ideal for baking, where other flavors come into play.

How many cups of matcha can you drink per day?

1 to 2 cups a day is a reasonable amount for most adults.

Can you cook with premium matcha?

Yes, but it doesn't make much economic sense: the subtle flavor of premium matcha is hard to detect once it's mixed with other ingredients. Save it for drinking on its own and opt for a culinary-grade matcha instead. 

 

 

Sources: 

Borsato, M. (2024). Kaiseki, matcha, wagashi: taste in the Japanese tea ceremony. Aesthetica Preprint, 126, 21–33. https://doi.org/10.7413/0393-85221462 

Kochman, J., Jakubczyk, K., Antoniewicz, J., Mruk, H., & Janda, K. (2020). Health Benefits and Chemical Composition of Matcha Green Tea: A Review. Molecules, 26(1), 85. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules26010085 

Rovaldi, E., Di Donato, V., Paolino, G., Bruno, M., Medei, A., Nisticò, S. P., Pellacani, G., Kiss, N., Azzella, G., Banvolgyi, A., & Cantisani, C. (2025). Epigallocatechin-Gallate (EGCG): An Essential Molecule for Human Health and Well-Being. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 26(18), 9253. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26189253 

Sokary, S., Al-Asmakh, M., Zakaria, Z., & Bawadi, H. (2022). The therapeutic potential of matcha tea: A critical review of human and animal studies. Current Research in Food Science, 6, 100285. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9792400/

Toniolo, C., Patriarca, A., De Vita, D., Santi, L., & Sciubba, F. (2025). A comparative multianalytical approach to the characterization of different grades of matcha tea (Camellia sinensis (L.) Kuntze). Plants, 14(11), 1631. https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14111631

Zheng, X., Zhang, X., Gao, H., Huang, L., Ye, J., Ye, J., Lu, J., Ma, S., & Liang, Y. (2024). Green Tea Catechins and Skin Health. Antioxidants, 13(12), 1506. https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox13121506