Matcha 101

What Is Matcha?

Matcha is a finely ground powder made from shade-grown green tea leaves — but it’s far more than just green tea. The shade-growing process boosts chlorophyll, amino acids, and antioxidant levels, producing the rich colour and smooth flavour matcha is known for. The leaves are hand-picked, steamed, dried, and then stone-ground into a silky powder.

Unlike steeped tea, where you discard the leaves, matcha allows you to consume the whole leaf — giving you a potent dose of nutrients, antioxidants, and clean energy.

Matcha is rich in:

  • L-theanine (calm-focus amino acid)
  • Catechins (strong antioxidants)
  • EGCG (beneficial for metabolism and cell protection)
  • Natural caffeine (steadier than coffee)

One gram of matcha provides roughly:

  • 20mg L-theanine
  • 35mg caffeine

Together, they create a unique state often called calm alertness — focus without anxiety, energy without a crash.

Why Drink Matcha?

Aside from its beautifully vibrant colour and ability to upgrade your aesthetic, matcha delivers real, tangible benefits for the mind and body.

  • Smoother, longer-lasting energy
    The combination of caffeine and L-theanine provides a stable release of energy for 4–6 hours.
  • Enhanced focus and mental clarity
    L-theanine promotes alpha brain waves, associated with concentration and relaxed alertness.
  • Strong antioxidant support
    Matcha contains up to 137x more antioxidants than regular green tea.
  • Calming yet energising effect
    You stay alert without feeling jittery or overstimulated.
  • Supports metabolism & detoxification
    Chlorophyll-rich and nutrient-dense, matcha aids natural metabolic processes.
  • Supports heart health & skin health
    Thanks to catechins and anti-inflammatory properties.

More and more people are turning to matcha not just as a drink — but as a lifestyle upgrade.

Different Types of Matcha

Choosing matcha isn’t always simple — and not all matcha is made equal.

Culinary Grade
Best for mixing, baking, cooking, and smoothies. More robust in flavour, less sweet, and usually more affordable.

Premium Grade
A blend of first and second (sometimes third) harvests. Smooth enough to drink, versatile enough to mix. Often marketed as “Barista Blend.”

Ceremonial Grade
The highest-quality matcha available. Harvested once a year from the youngest spring leaves, shade-grown and stone-ground.

Smooth, vibrant, naturally sweet — perfect for hot and iced drinks.

MYWAY uses only true ceremonial-grade matcha sourced from Japan.

Shelf Life & Storage

Matcha is delicate — light, heat, and oxygen can impact its colour and flavour.

To keep your matcha fresh:

  • Store in a cool, dark place 
  • Keep the container airtight
  • Consume within 2–3 months once opened
  • Refrigerate after opening if you live in a hot climate
  • If it turns brown or bitter, it’s a sign of oxidation

Well-stored matcha = vibrant green colour + smooth taste.

MYWAY ritual

A step-by-step visual guide to crafting matcha the MYWAY way — smooth, vibrant, and perfectly balanced.