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Green tea is said to have health benefits like lowering the risk of cancer because of its abundance of antioxidants. A certain type of the clear drink is supposed to have even more positive effects, and its popularity in Vancouver is soaring.
Matcha is the type of green tea used in Japanese tea ceremonies. According to an article in the April 12, 2003, issue of Science News, matcha contains 200 times the concentration of epigallocatechin gallate, a potent antioxidant, than regular green tea.
Instead of tea leaves steeped in water, matcha is made by mixing hot water with powdered leaves. Matcha is the signature selection at Infuze Tea House (870 West Cordova Street, 1114 Denman Street). Infuze, which specializes in matcha lattes, claims that matcha contains 70 times more antioxidants than orange juice.
And it's not just in frothy drinks that matcha is showing up these days. Used in powder form, it's also the key ingredient in a new facial on offer at the Ayurvedic-based Vida Wellness Spa (1088 Burrard Street, 845 Burrard Street; www.vidawellness.com/). The compound has high levels of vitamin B2, which supposedly helps hydrate the skin ($125 for 60 minutes).
