Green Tea Leaf Powder

Green tea leaf powder is made by grinding dried green tea leaves (Camellia sinensis) into a fine powder. Unlike green tea extract (which isolates certain compounds) or brewed tea (which only infuses water-soluble components), the powder form allows you to consume the whole leaf, making it rich in antioxidants, fiber, and nutrients.

The most famous version is matcha, a Japanese stone-ground green tea, though other green tea powders exist and may be less refined.

What It Is

• Botanical name: Camellia sinensis
• Forms:
• Matcha: High-grade, shade-grown leaves, carefully ground to preserve nutrients.
• Regular green tea powder: Ground leaves (lower grade, more bitter).
• Taste: Fresh, vegetal, grassy, slightly bitter, with umami (in matcha).

Nutritional Profile (per 1tsp 2g)

• Calories: 5–10
• Caffeine: 60–70mg (higher than brewed tea, closer to coffee)
• L-theanine: 20–30mg (calming effect)
• EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate): Very high antioxidant content
• Fiber: Small amounts, unlike brewed tea

Health Benefits of Green Tea Leaf Powder

1. High Antioxidant Power

• Up to 137× more EGCG than brewed green tea (in matcha).
• Protects cells, slows aging, and reduces inflammation.

2. Sustained Energy & Focus

• Caffeine + L-theanine → calm alertness (no coffee jitters).
• Improves mental clarity and concentration.

3. Weight Management

• Boosts metabolism and fat burning.
• Often included in detox blends.

4. Heart & Circulation Health

• May reduce LDL cholesterol.
• Improves blood vessel elasticity.

5. Blood Sugar & Detox Support

• Enhances insulin sensitivity.
• Mild detox effect on the liver and kidneys.

6. Skin & Anti-aging

• Catechins protect against UV damage.
• Used in face masks and beauty powders.

Traditional & Modern Uses

• Traditional Japanese tea ceremonies: Matcha prepared with a bamboo whisk (chasen).
• Ayurveda & wellness: Adopted as an energy and longevity tonic.
• Modern uses:
• Superfood lattes, smoothies, and desserts.
• Natural skincare masks.
• Energy blends for focus and weight loss.

Side Effects & Precautions

• Caffeine sensitivity: Can cause jitters or insomnia if taken late in the day.
• Stomach irritation: May cause nausea if taken on an empty stomach.
• Overuse: Very high doses (especially extracts, not powder) may stress the liver.
• Drug interactions: May affect blood thinners, stimulant drugs, or diabetes meds.

How to Use Green Tea Leaf Powder

1. Tea preparation:

• Matcha style → whisk ½–1 tsp powder into 60–100 ml hot water (75–85 °C).

2. Lattes: Blend with warm milk or plant milk for a matcha latte.
3. Smoothies & juices: Add 1 tsp to smoothies for a boost.
4. Culinary uses: Bake into cakes, cookies, pancakes, or energy bars.
5. Skincare: Mix with honey, yogurt, or aloe as a face mask.

Green Tea Leaf Powder vs. Extract vs. Brewed Tea