Many of you will know that matcha tea has been consumed by Buddhist monks for hundreds of years to support meditation but, did you know that Samurai Warriors also drank matcha tea? Samurai Warriors discovered that drinking matcha increases energy and mental focus. Thus, they would drink matcha before going into battle to boost their energy, to enhance their physical performance and, to prepare mentally.

Modern day drinkers of matcha continue to benefit from such effects, 90% of OMGTea Matcha Challenge 2023 participants experienced an increase in energy when they consumed matcha every day for 21 days.

I definitely noticed an increase in mental as well as physical energy, and it also felt like it was sustained from the early morning until late in the day. This has really positively affected my workflow!

(Matcha Challenge 2023 participant)

Matcha increases energy primarily due to its unique combination of caffeine and L-theanine. The caffeine content in matcha can vary but for our range of OMGTea matcha, it is around 34mg per 1 gram serving. Caffeine stimulates the central nervous system, promoting alertness and temporarily preventing drowsiness.

The combination of caffeine and L-theanine may enhance cognitive function

The amount of caffeine found in OMGTea is sufficient to boost your energy and this is significantly enhanced by the amino acid L-theanine that is found in abundance in OMGTea and other quality matcha products. Unlike caffeine, L-theanine has a calming effect on the brain. It promotes the production of alpha waves, which induce a state of relaxed alertness. The combination of caffeine and L-theanine in matcha creates a synergistic effect. While caffeine provides an initial energy boost and increased alertness, L-theanine helps prevent the jitteriness and potential anxiety that can be associated with high doses of caffeine.

This synergistic interaction results in enhanced cognitive function, including improved focus and concentration, which is a key benefit highlighted by regular drinkers of matcha:

My focus was sharper, and I felt more energised for a longer period of time.

Specifically, I have noticed improved mental clarity and a focused yet calming energy. I found myself to be in the present moment.

(Matcha Challenge 2023 participants)

Quality Matcha provides a more sustained release of energy

Furthermore, the L-Theanine latches onto the caffeine and slows down its release into the bloodstream so, unlike the rapid energy spike and subsequent crash often associated with some energy drinks or high-sugar beverages, the caffeine in matcha provides a more sustained release of energy. This helps avoid the "crash" that can occur when the effects of caffeine wear off.

Matcha may also contribute to stable blood sugar levels, preventing the rapid fluctuations that can lead to energy crashes. Caffeine can increase insulin sensitivity, and L-theanine has been associated with a stabilising effect on blood glucose, which helps to balance that out. Stable blood sugar levels further help maintain a steady supply of energy throughout the day.

OMG matcha is a little cup of energy, after consuming I felt more energised and had no energy crash.

(Matcha Challenge 2023 participant)

 So, whilst individual experiences may vary, yes matcha does have the potential to give you an energy boost. You may not be going into battle like the matcha drinking Samurai but the sustained energy that quality matcha provides is ideal for supporting you throughout the day and without the negative side effects of other caffeinated drinks such as coffee and high-sugar beverages or energy drinks.