Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory components, matcha has been linked to better heart health, improved immunity, sharper focus, enhanced memory, and may even support healthy weight loss. Adding a touch of honey may help to increase some of matcha’s benefits thanks to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

But there’s more to combining matcha and honey than just the health benefits. For those new to matcha, the taste can sometimes feel a bit bold or slightly bitter.  Sweetening it with honey can help smooth out the taste and make this vibrant tea more approachable- and when something tastes good, you’re more likely to make it part of your daily routine. Drinking matcha consistently is key to reaping its long-term benefits, so this pairing can make a lot of sense!

Keep reading to discover why combining matcha with honey can be a simple and delicious way to support your health.

What makes matcha so healthy

If you’re new to matcha, it’s a type of powdered green tea that’s packed with nutrients and benefits. To make matcha, tea leaves are shaded in the weeks leading up to harvest. This concentrates nutrients in the tea leaves and increases both chlorophyll and L-theanine levels. With matcha, you also consume the entire tea leaf (in powdered form), which gives you a more concentrated dose of the good stuff, like antioxidants and polyphenols.

Matcha is especially rich in EGCG, a catechin that has been shown to help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Some studies also show that EGCG may help to reduce inflammation and may reduce the risk of certain chronic diseases like diabetes and cancer.

Thanks to the combo of L-theanine and caffeine, matcha also offers gentle, sustained energy, without the jitters often associated with coffee or other energy drinks. L-theanine is an amino acid linked to reduced stress and anxiety, increased focus, better immunity, and memory. Matcha contains significantly more L-theanine than green tea.

Another exciting area of research is matcha’s potential to help with healthy weight management, blood sugar balance, and cardiovascular health.

How honey can support health

Honey is a natural sweetener that has long been valued for its healing properties. Unlike refined sugar, which has very few nutrients, honey contains enzymes, minerals, and antioxidants.

Similar to the antioxidants found in matcha, the antioxidants in honey can help neutralize damage caused by free radicals and reduce inflammation.

Certain types of honey, especially manuka honey, have been shown to help support the immune system, soothe the gut, improve oral health, and offer a natural treatment for wounds.

Although honey still raises blood sugar levels, just like sugar does, some interesting research suggests that it can also improve blood sugar regulation and fasting blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. However, medical professionals still emphasize that moderation is key. 

Honey can even be used to heal wounds and burns thanks to its antimicrobial and antibacterial properties. There’s even medical-grade honey that hospitals use to treat burns.

However, it is important to note that the amount of honey typically added to tea may not be enough to offer any significant benefits.

Matcha meets honey

Matcha and honey both contain antioxidants and healing compounds, and when combined, those benefits can be boosted. Matcha provides a calm, sustained energy thanks to its combination of caffeine and L-theanine, while honey offers antibacterial and antioxidant properties. Together, they may help the body fight against oxidative stress, improve immunity, and overall vitality.

One interesting study also found that consuming both honey and green tea together reduced the risk of developing H. pylori, a type of bacteria that attacks your stomach lining and can cause ulcers and gastritis. 

While the health benefits of combining matcha and honey are great, so is the taste. Matcha has a naturally earthy, umami-forward flavor that can sometimes be a bit bold. Honey is a natural way to sweeten and soften matcha’s edge, creating a smooth and delicious drink. This can make it easier for people to drink matcha and enjoy it as a daily ritual, which is key to getting the long-term benefits.

If you’re looking for ways to pair matcha and honey, maybe go for a honey matcha latte to start. Combine frothy milk, matcha, and a drizzle of honey, and you’re ready to go. You can also try an iced honey matcha, perfect for summer afternoons. You can also drizzle honey directly into your plain matcha, add it to smoothies, or even incorporate it with your matcha recipes, like overnight oats or energy bites.

Check out all of our matcha recipes here. 

A few things to keep in mind

While honey can be an alternative to sugar, it is still calorie-dense and best enjoyed in moderation. Honey is also not recommended for infants under one.

Bottom Line:

Overall, matcha and honey are a great match! Matcha helps you feel calm, focused, and energized, while honey offers a bit of sweetness and antioxidant benefits. Together they can create a nourishing, delicious combo that’s rich in nutrients. So the next time you want to whip up a latte or a matcha smoothie, consider adding a drizzle of honey instead of a spoonful of sugar!

Disclaimer: These statements in this blog post have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The information provided here is for educational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice. It's essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making any dietary or lifestyle changes.  

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