Matcha, finely ground green tea leaves, has gained popularity over the years in the United States. But behind this green powder, lies a rich history. Matcha can be traced back thousands of years to the Tang Dynasty during the 7th to 10th centuries. During this time, steamed tea leaves were layered to form bricks in order to create a system of easy transportation. After they were transported, they were pulverized and ground into powder. This powder was mixed with water and whipped into a frothy green tea. 

By the 13th century, Japanese tea masters began using their craft to share the art of tea making and began to experiment with tea leaves not limited to Matcha. This introduced the concept of tea ceremonies which involved the consumption of tea along with principles of Zen buddhism and meditation.

Coffee has risen to be the second most consumed beverage globally, but at the same time, the beverage business has seen a significant rise in demand for matcha-based drinks and products. Matcha has carved its way into popular beverages and quickly has become the cover for health-conscious trends. Matcha offers a healthy alternative to coffee because it doesn’t contain as much caffeine. It also poses fewer potential side effects, including iron absorption issues, stomach irritation, and lead contamination, for a person. It is a gentle drink that  contains cancer-fighting antioxidants, and apart from the health benefits, the aromatic smell of this tea and its vibrant hue have attracted companies to feature more matcha flavored drinks.   

With the spring season making its way through, people seem to be transitioning away from their traditionally fall Pumpkin Spice Lattes, and matcha is certainly a far cry from drab coffee and caffeinated drinks. Apart from the notable matcha latte, Starbucks has experimented with matcha in other spring drinks including Iced Lavender Cream Oatmilk Matcha and Iced Matcha Lemonade. The Iced Lavender Cream Oatmilk Matcha drink consists of a smooth, creamy matcha layered over oatmilk and served with lavender cream cold foam and ice. The Iced Matcha Lemonade is a unique, refreshing twist to the classic lemonade and contains unsweetened matcha green tea mixed with crisp lemonade. 

Whether you are craving a refreshing smoothie or a hot drink, matcha remains a healthy, yet tasty beverage to enjoy.