KONOMI organic Matcha

The most precious of all green teas is made by grinding the finest tea leaves in a stone mill. In Japan, the most prized teas are used in formal ceremonies that aim to bring all five senses together to achieve inner harmony. Before harvesting, the leaves are shaded, which significantly increases their chlorophyll content and levels of bioactive compounds such as polyphenols and catechins. This process takes place under organic growing conditions on acidic, humus-rich soils in subtropical and tropical climates with high humidity and temperatures ranging from 10 to 30 °C, from sea level up to an altitude of 2500 m. Organic cultivation without synthetic fertilisers or pesticides, with certifications such as JAS in Japan or EU BIO, ensures minimal environmental impact and higher levels of beneficial compounds compared with conventional teas.

The unique properties of Matcha powdered tea are influenced by shading before harvesting, which substantially increases the amount of chlorophyll and associated bioactive compounds in the plants. Matcha is rich in the powerful antioxidant epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which has excellent anticancer properties and seeks out and destroys free radicals in the body. Its ability to support the body in fighting viruses is also highly significant. It does this by blocking the enzyme 3-chymotrypsin protease (3CL), which negatively affects the cells' ability to mount an appropriate immune response following infection with a potent virus. As a cosmetic ingredient, it primarily acts as a powerful antioxidant that neutralises free radicals, soothes irritated skin with anti-inflammatory polyphenols and catechins, and supports tissue healing and skin barrier repair. Its fine molecular size gives it exfoliating properties, while its high oxygen radical absorbance capacity helps reduce wrinkles and improve elasticity. The recommended concentration in cosmetics is 1-5 % for masks and exfoliators.

The polyphenols in this tea have strong anti-inflammatory effects. Catechins also significantly reduce cholesterol. Its polyphenol and catechin content is particularly important for the skin, offering powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Matcha of this quality and molecular size has the highest oxygen radical absorbance capacity of all available superfoods. It has powerful antioxidant effects on the skin, improves skin conditions, helps heal and repair skin tissue (making it suitable for scars and minor wounds), reduces wrinkle formation and restores skin elasticity and firmness. It is ideal for dry, sensitive, dehydrated, mature and acne-prone skin, helping to reduce inflammation, hydrate and protect against ageing.

A study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology (2018) demonstrated that matcha extract at a concentration of 2 % reduced the expression of the inflammatory markers IL-6 and TNF-α by 45 % in keratinocytes exposed to UVB radiation after 24 hours. Further research in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences (2020) showed that EGCG from matcha at a concentration of 1 % inhibited melanin production by 32 % in melanoma cells over 72 hours, supporting an even skin tone.