Matcha has come a long way from being a niche ingredient in Japan’s traditional tea ceremonies to becoming a global wellness staple. Rich in antioxidants, L-theanine and a natural, sustained energy boost, matcha is more than just a trend — it’s a way of life.
To explore its benefits and how to make the most of this vibrant green powder, we spoke to two experts: Cape Town-based product development chef Kira Jacobs and functional nutritionist Vanessa Ascencao. Plus, we dive into the story of Mikayla McClean, founder of Ceremony, a South African brand redefining modern matcha culture.
Why Matcha? The Wellness Boost You Didn’t Know You Needed
Unlike regular green tea, matcha is made by stone-grinding whole tea leaves, preserving all their beneficial nutrients. “This means you consume the entirety of the tea leaf — all of the benefits of the whole plant are consumed,” says Vanessa. This results in matcha’s signature deep green hue and its rich supply of catechins — powerful antioxidants that fight inflammation, support immunity, and promote hormonal balance.
Beyond its health perks, matcha is also a natural cognitive enhancer. “One of the reasons I love matcha is that it contains L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes relaxation while enhancing mental focus,” Vanessa explains. “You get the benefits of caffeine without the jitters.”
How to Use Matcha Like a Pro
While matcha has a reputation for being tricky to work with, Kira Jacobs believes it’s surprisingly versatile. “High-quality ceremonial-grade matcha has a beautifully balanced flavour profile — bright citrus acidity, grassy undertones and subtle bitterness,” she says. “It’s best used simply.”
For beginners, Vanessa suggests starting with matcha lattes or smoothies. “I love using ceremonial-grade matcha in my morning smoothie or mixing it with organic raw milk and cinnamon in the afternoon — it’s a mindful ritual,” she shares.
Kira prefers matcha in low-heat or no-heat applications to preserve its vibrancy. “I love stirring it into sauces and dressings or lightly dusting it over a dish before serving,” she says. It also pairs beautifully with creamy textures like gelato, thick yoghurt, or whipped cream.
Pro Tips for Buying and Storing Matcha
- Look for ceremonial-grade matcha for the best quality.
- Store it in an airtight, dark container to protect it from light and moisture.
- Use it sparingly — a little goes a long way!
Ceremony: Cultivating Calm with Matcha
For Mikayla McClean, matcha is more than just an ingredient — it’s a pathway to stillness and connection. “Living in New York and LA, I saw the rise of matcha as a wellness essential,” she shares. “I was never a big coffee drinker, so when I discovered high-quality matcha, I was hooked. It became my go-to.”
This love for matcha led to the creation of Ceremony, a South African matcha brand built on three core values: Intention, Community, and Care.
“At Ceremony, we’re bringing back a new era of nourishment,” Mikayla says. “Our matcha is sourced directly from Japan, freshly stone-ground, and shipped express to Cape Town. We believe in the power of daily rituals — small, intentional moments that ground us.”
The Future of Wellness: A More Mindful Approach
With matcha’s popularity continuing to grow, Mikayla sees a shift toward quality over quantity. “Wellness is no longer about chasing trends — it’s about finding what truly works for you,” she explains. “Matcha helps us slow down, reconnect and approach life with a sense of balance.”
The Verdict: More Than Just a Trend
Whether you’re drawn to matcha for its health benefits, its rich umami flavour, or its ability to turn your morning drink into a mindful ritual, one thing is clear — matcha is here to stay. From wellness enthusiasts to culinary creatives, matcha has cemented its place as a versatile, nourishing and deeply intentional part of modern living.
So go ahead, whisk up a frothy cup and let matcha’s magic unfold.
ALSO SEE: Make matcha the traditional way
Feature image: Supplied
